Andalib Akhter /
The President Pranab Mukherjee today expressed deep concern over eroding debate culture in Indian Parliament. Addressing the nation on the eve of 69th Independence Day, Mr Mukherjee asked political parties to introspect to ‘ save democratic institutions’ which he said are under stress.
Mr Mukherjee said, Parliament has been converted into an arena of combat rather than debate. He recalled Dr B R Ambedkar who had said, the working of a constitution does not depend wholly upon the nature of the constitution.
Noting that India is a target of vicious terrorist groups operating from across the borders, the President said, India cannot be blind to deliberate acts of provocation and a deteriorating security environment. He said, infiltration into India’s territory and attempts to create mayhem will be dealt with a strong hand. Mr Mukherjee said, neighbours must ensure that their territory is not used by forces inimical to India. He said, New Delhi’s policy will remain one of zero tolerance for terrorism which rejects any attempt to use terrorism as an instrument of state policy.
Saying that the fertile ground laid by the Constitution, India has blossomed into a vibrant democracy, its roots are deep but the leaves are beginning to wilt and time has come for renewal. He said, democracy is creative because it is plural, but diversity must be nourished with tolerance and patience as vested interests chip away at social harmony, in an attempt to erode many centuries of secularism.
Commending the revival of economy, the President said India has recovered to 7.3 per cent growth last year. But, he said, the benefits of growth must reach the poorest of the poor before they land in the bank accounts of the rich.
Paying homage to the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice of their lives defending India, the President saluted the courage and heroism of the security forces who are maintaining vigil to safeguard the territorial integrity of the country. He also commended the brave civilians who boldly detained a hardened terrorist ignoring the risk to their own lives.
Concluding his address, the President said India is a complex country of 1.3 billion people, 122 languages, 1600 dialects, and seven religions, but its strength lies in its unique capacity to blend apparent contradictions into positive affirmations.