Stressing the importance of exposing oneself to undistorted history, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has said the evolution of critical and independent thought is crucial for the future of democracy.
Inaugurating the second edition of the Kerala Legislature International Book Festival (KLIBF) here on Thursday, he also raised caution on the misuse of the social media and digital technology, which are “double-edged swords” to spread hatred.
“Reading is extremely important as it enables one to identify mischief-makers that thrive by propagating falsehoods to drive a wedge into the country’s unity. People who read, think and speak freely are essential for the existence of a healthy democracy. Fascists and dictators have always been afraid of those who do not fall for organised propaganda. As history has shown, such rulers have always been hell-bent on destroying them and the books that empower them,” Mr. Vijayan said.
