‘Weaker Sections’ Should be Protected: Pranab’s I-Day Address

In his address President Mukherjee said that attacks against the weaker sections are against the national ethos.

Addressing the nation on the eve of 70th independence day President Pranab Mukherjee made some sharp and critical comments on governance and polity. Pranab Mukherjee, who is in his fifth year of presidentship said, attacks on weaker sections that militate against our national ethos are aberrations that need to be dealt with firmly.

The Quint, brings to you 10 statements from the President’s speech that are not to be missed.

1) In last four years, I also saw with, some disquiet, forces of divisiveness and intolerance trying to raise their ugly head. Attacks on weaker sections that militate against our national ethos are aberrations that need to be dealt with firmly.

2) The safety and security that we provide to our women and children, determines well being of state and society. We cannot call ourselves a civilised society if we fail to protect our women and children.

3) Polarizing debates only deepen the fault lines in public discourse. Disruptions, obstructionism & unmindful pursuit of divisive political agenda lead to institutional travesty.

4) Spirit of Constitution has to be upheld by adherence to “Maryada” by functionaries in discharge of their duties.

5) India will grow, only when all of India grows; the excluded ones have to be included in the development process. As we build an India of smart cities, towns & villages, we must ensure they are humane, hi-tech and happy places.

6) The very essence of plurality lies in cherishing our heterogeneity and valuing our diversity.

7) The excluded ones have to be included in the development process. The hurt and the alienated have to be brought back into the mainstream.

8) We should promote and reinforce a scientific temper by questioning our beliefs.

9) Passage of GST constitutional amendment bill is reason enough to celebrate our democratic maturity.

10) The world has witnessed a spate of terror activities having their roots in radicalisation of people on the basis of religion. These forces pose a danger to entire comity of nations; world will have to fight them unconditionally and in one voice.