NEW DELHI, Jan 25: President K R Narayanan has expressed concern over the uncontrolled growth of communalism and casteism snuffing out the lights of securalism in our society and the increase in corruption, violence and criminalisation of politics and society.In his Republic Day eve address to the nation, he said the State and the Government have the responsibility of dealing with these dark forces threatening the fabric of society and our cherished values. But people themselves have a responsibility and a role to play.
Narayanan said, ``in the situation obtaining today the people have the right, the duty and the opportunity to dissociate themselves from individuals and groups who propagate and indulge in corruption, violence and crimes against society. They must not give them passive support but ostracise them from society. Together with governmental action this would produce results.'' ``In this context we can take a lesson from our experience of fighting terrorism in Punjab, Assam and Kashmir. The
people tired of violence and insecurity dared to break out of the mystique of fear of the terrorist and asserted their will for normal life. This was followed by democratic elections which acted as some sort of a social and political therapy. The essential element in all this was the attitude of the people.''
The people should mobilise themselves to counter negative forces of violence, corruption, communalism and casteism. This will entail the collective effort of women, scheduled castes, tribes, backward classes and minorities. He said, ``the social, economic and political empowerment of women is a pre-requisite to the revitalisation of our development and democratic processes.''
Commenting on the forthcoming polls, the President stated, ``I have no doubt that under the vigilant eye of the Election Commission of India we will have free and fair elections in which the people could express their sovereign will.'' Referring to foreign policy Narayanan said, ``we have extended our hands of cooperation andfriendship to our close neighbours. Our destiny is linked with their destiny. And we stand for friendship with all nations and pursue our objectives of peace, disarmament and development. On the occassion of our Republic Day we send our greetings to all the nations of the world.''
``And to my sisters and brothers and to the youth of this great country I convey my good wishes for the Republic Day,'' he added.
Concluding his address the President said, ``may the flag that will be unfurled tomorrow on State buildings and atop millions of homes inspire us to work for peace and prosperity that is shared by all in this motherland of ours.''
Copyright © 1998 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.
