Secularism can sweep away superstition like a storm, says K.E.N. Kunhahammed

Writer and critic K.E.N. Kunhahammed said that superstition would vanish like dry leaves if secularism swept across society like a powerful storm.

He was delivering the keynote address at the State Secular Family Meet organised by the Secular Forum in Thrissur on Saturday.

Mr. Kunhahammed said that what the world is witnessing today is a combination of imperialist aggression and the terror of capital. He questioned whether actions such as killing the Iranian ruler, abducting the Venezuelan leader in chains, declaring Cuba as the next target after Iran, and forcing India to seek US approval to purchase petroleum from Russia could be called anything other than imperialist aggression.

The gathering was inaugurated by poet Kureepuzha Sreekumar, who urged the government not to delay the passage of a law to prohibit exploitation in the name of superstition.

As part of the event, 30 individuals who lead secular lifestyles were honoured on stage. A book titled Secularism: Pluralism, Human Rights, written by E.D. Davies was also released during the programme.