“The divisive politics in our country has contributed to reinforcing the religious, linguistic and casteist identities in society and warring political powers have polarised around such identities,” said Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee.

Speaking at the 22nd Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial IFFCO lecture on Monday, Chatterjee said the recent incidents in Maharashtra showed the political atmosphere in the country is “seriously vitiated”. “On the other hand, the India that Nehru had envisioned, focused on strengthening the emotional integration of our diverse population,” he said.

Quoting from the works of Amartya Sen, J S Mill and Lenin, he said there was a need for every citizen to concern himself with the affairs of the state and the democratic processes.

“Only if we pay adequate attention to public affairs, those at the helm of affairs will create conditions for good governance,” Chatterjee said.

He said it was time India indulged in some introspection and the country must not spare any effort in ending all forms of divisive and exclusivist politics. “Over time, people in India have shown that their political judgment cannot be taken for granted. In six out of 15 general elections, they have brought about changes in the central government, proving political pundits and astrologers wrong,” he said.

“However, our people must also have the power to recall elected representatives in case the latter are not in tune with the nation’s interests,” Chatterjee said. The former speaker appreciated the efforts of Indian Farmers Fertilizer Cooperative Limited (IFFCO), in taking care of the needs of farmers.

... contd.