New Delhi: Noting the "widespread cynicism and disillusionment" with governance and functioning of institutions, President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said elections next year is an opportunity to elect a stable government that will ensure security and economic development. In his address to the nation on the eve of 67th Independence Day, he expressed serious concern over the way Parliament and legislatures function and said corruption has become a major challenge.
In what looks like a virtual commentary on the current political scene, the President referred to the the general elections in 2014 and said "this great festival of democracy is an opportunity for us to elect a stable government which will ensure security and economic development. "Every election must become a crucial milestone in our nation's journey towards greater social harmony, peace and prosperity."
Democracy, he said, has given the country an opportunity to create another golden age. "Let us not squander this extraordinary opportunity. The journey ahead calls for wisdom, courage and determination. We must work on across-the-board revival of our values and institutions."We must realise that rights go with responsibilities. We must re-discover the virtue of self-scrutiny and self- restraint," Mukherjee said.
He said that "patience has limits" and all "necessary steps" will be taken to ensure internal security and protect territorial integrity. Without mentioning Pakistan by name, President Pranab Mukherjee said despite India's consistent efforts to build friendly relations with neighbours, there have been tensions on the border and repeated violations of the ceasefire on the Line of Control,leading to tragic loss of lives.
"Our commitment to peace is unfailing but even our patience has limits. All steps necessary to ensure internal security and protect the territorial integrity of the nation will be taken," he said addressing the nation on the eve of 67th Independence Day. He applauded the courage and heroism of the security and armed forces who maintain eternal vigilance and paid homage to those who have made the supreme sacrifice of the most precious gift of life in the service of the motherland.
Mukherjee said in the recent past there have been grave challenges to the security, internal as well as external. "The barbaric face of Maoist violence in Chhattisgarh led to a loss of many innocent lives," he said.
He concluded his speech with a reference to Bhagvad Gita where the teacher propounds his views, he quoted a verse, "even as you choose, so you do. I do not wish to impose my views on the people. I have presented to you what I think is right. Now it is for your conscience, for your judgement, for your mind to decide what is right." Mukherjee said, "on your decisions rests the future of our democracy."
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