Shri K.T. Jaleel, Hon’ble Minister for Local Self Government
Departments,
Shri Kadannappalli Ramachandran, Hon’ble Minister for Ports, Shri Ramesh Chennithala, Opposition Leader,
Shri P.K. Kunhalikutty, M.P.,
Shri K.K. Ragesh, M.P.,
Smt. P.K. Srimathi Teacher, M.P.,
Adv. A.N. Shamsheer, MLA,
Shri A.K. Saseendran, MLA,
Shri C.K. Nanu, MLA,
Dr. V. Ramachandran, MLA,
Shri C.K. Remeshan, Chairman, Thalassery Municipality,
Shri Subhagan, Secretary, Thalassery Municipality,
 

Sahodaree Sahodaranmaare,
Ellaavarkkum Ente Namaskaaram, 

I am very happy to address the people of the historic coastal town of Thalassery, which was the second town to become a Municipality in the geographical area that we now consider as our beloved State of Kerala.
Let me at the outset, compliment the Members of the Municipal Council and the people of this town for celebrating the 150th year of the declaration of this town as a Municipality. As this Municipality crosses this significant milestone, it is our duty to recall hundreds of people whose commitment and hard work have contributed to the steady growth of this town. We also must pledge for continued, concerted action to steer this town towards a sustainable development that will ensure a healthy and happy life to its dwellers. 

As we all know, it was way back in 1886, during the British Raj that Thalassery was declared a Municipality. Though this town was renowned for its pepper which attracted foreign trade and even incited armies to fight over it, we in Kerala would prefer to recall Thalassery as the first Municipality in India to introduce compulsory primary education in 1917.  And it was from Illikkunnu in Thalassery that Dr. Hermann Gundert, the renowned scholar published Rajyasamacharam, the first printed publication in Malayalam and later, went on to compile the first dictionary in Malayalam. And, the name of Edward Brennan, another pioneer in education, still lives through the Govt. Brennan College, which is one of the best institutions in the State. The effect of the educational heritage of this locality is evident in the high level of social and political consciousness of the people.

The completion of 150 years also points to the need for further growth of this town. I understand that this Municipality was initially limited to an area of 7.5 Square kilometres.  Over the years, it has expanded to about 24 Square Kilometres. Considering the rich heritage and significance of this town, I feel it can be upgraded to become a Municipal Corporation in the near future, especially in the context of an airport coming up in Kannur. However, along with this, the Council should also ensure that they fulfil certain responsibilities that every local body has to strictly follow.

We know that every Municipality functions as a local self governing body that keeps our democratic process alive. The functioning of such bodies must show an example of democratic participation to the people. While earning revenue from society, every local body must also ensure facilities and services that would make people's lives more comfortable.

In fact, today, with urbanization spreading to every part of Kerala, the needs of people and the services they demand are becoming more complex. The international exposure that our people have gained through working in other parts of the world has made them more aware of world class facilities. This calls for our earnest efforts towards seeking efficient solutions to manage the modern needs of a growing town. 

First of all, we need to ensure that pollution levels are kept to the minimum so that Thalassery remains a truly safe place for everyone. Scientific handling and management of waste, getting used to green protocol in every sphere possible and preservation of our natural and water resources deserve top priority.

I hope all of you are aware of the concern that our government has for the welfare of people with disabilities. The councils of local bodies must realize this concern and endeavour to make every place and public building disabled-friendly by ensuring ramps and other facilities for the disabled.

We are also duty bound to ensure safety and welfare of the poor people who struggle to keep our surroundings clean. As a former judge of the Supreme Court of India who directed the Government and Municipal bodies to abolish manual scavenging and to ensure that adequate equipment be provided to those who work in the drains and manholes, I still see great scope for improvement in our approach towards such people. While trying to incorporate an innovative, dynamic and predictive system for the efficient management of our services, let us also ensure that the poorest sections also get the benefit of our system.  In fact, Thalassery should set an example to the nation through such inclusive measures.

I once again share the joy of the people of Thalassery in celebrating this 150th Anniversary of the Municipality.

I compliment the Thalassery Municipal Council  for conducting this function in a befitting manner.

Ellavarkkum Ente Aashamsakal
Nanni
Jai Hind