Panaji, May 9:Social activist and lawyer Aires Rodrigues has called upon Goans to preserve the State’s long-standing tradition of communal harmony, secularism, and peaceful coexistence, stating that Goa’s identity has always been rooted in unity among people of different religions, castes, and communities.In a statement issued on Friday, Rodrigues said Goa and its people have always been known for their welcoming nature and harmonious way of life, and warned against attempts to divide society through fanaticism and hatred.“Peaceful, secular and in communal harmony we should always thrive and live. A harmonious community as we have always been. The world is grappling with enough problems and peace is the need of the hour,” he stated.Rodrigues emphasized that generations of Goans have grown up together sharing bonds of friendship across all communities and said this legacy must continue for future generations. He urged people not to allow Goa’s social fabric to be damaged by divisive forces.Stressing that temples, mosques, churches, and all places of worship should unite people rather than create divisions, Rodrigues said there should be no room in society for discrimination based on religion, creed, or caste.He further appealed to citizens to uphold values of love, tolerance, and compassion, reminding people that life is short and should be lived by caring for humanity as a whole.Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Rodrigues concluded by saying, “Always aim at complete harmony of thought, word, and deed. Always aim at purifying your thoughts and everything will be well.”