Opposition members protest during address
Staff Reporter / NEW DELHI
President Ram Nath Kovind today termed the Citizenship Amendment Act as a historic law. He said, after partition, the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi had said that- Hindus and Sikhs of Pakistan, who do not want to stay there, can come to India. He added that it is the duty of the Indian Government to provide them a normal life.
Addressing the joint sitting of both the houses of Parliament at Central Hall, Mr. Kovind said, that abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35A related to Jammu and Kashmir through two-thirds majority by both the houses of Parliament is not only historic but has also paved way for equal development of the regions. Mr Kovind also lauded the countrymen over their mature behaviour after the Supreme Court’s decision on Ram Janmabhoomi.
President underlined that the government is clearly of the view that mutual discussions and debates further strengthen democracy. He said, at the same time, any kind of violence in the name of protest weakens the society and the country.
Mr. Kovind said, people of India have given mandate to the present government at Centre to build a New India. He asserted that government is following the Mantra of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Viswas.
Mr Kovind said, the Constitution expects from this Parliament and every member to fulfil the hopes and aspirations of countrymen and make necessary laws for them, keeping national interest paramount. He added that Parliament has created record in first seven months of new government by enacting several landmark legislations including bill related to abolishing the practice of Triple Talaq.
Mr. Kovind highlighted work done by the government at the ground level in the last five years which has helped India’s ranking on several International ranking indices. On the Tourism Index, India has risen from 52nd to the 34th rank while on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business ranking, the country has jumped 79 ranks to stand at 63rd.
The President said, eight crore people were given free gas connections, two crore free houses and 38 crore people have been helped with bank accounts. The President said, the government has taken several steps for the welfare of minorities in the country.
Members from Congress, DMK, RJD, Left and others were wearing black bands during President’s address.