Politics and much less agitations are a taboo when it comes to the President’s Republic Day eve address to the nation. But in her farewell address, as she retires later this year President Pratibha Patil could not simply ignore a reference to the Lokpal agitation that has dominated much of the year that has gone by.
Of course, there was no direct mention of the agitation, but the reference was too obvious to be ignored. “India can take pride in its democratic record, but as in any functional democracy, it faces pressures and challenges. An important feature of a democracy is the constant expression of opinions. This process of incessant dialogue should flow in such a manner, that we are willing to listen to each other. Those who believe in democracy must try to see whether there is rationale in the others’ point of view,” she observed.
Then she quoted. Gandhijito take the theme forward. She quoted:”Evolution of democracy is not possible if we are not prepared to hear the other side. We shut the doors of reason when we refuse to listen.”She then argued that the purpose of discussions and deliberations is to find solutions.” Often, we are quick to find blame with others; but, yet are unable to give constructive responses. There seems to be a tendency to doubt almost everything. Do we not have faith in our own people’s strengths and in our institutions? Can we afford distrust amongst ourselves? Nations are built through great patience and sacrifices. Concord and not discord is the way forward for a country as large as India,.”she added.
If such an elaborate critique of the Hazare movement had been missing from the government, the president left no one in doubt about her views on Lokpal as an instrument for fight corruption.
“Our institutions may not be flawless, but they have coped with many challenges. Our Parliament has enacted path-breaking laws. Our Government has put together schemes for the progress and welfare of the people. Our judiciary has a reputable standing. Our media too has played an important role. With all institutions working together for the same national purpose it will create a stream of positive energy. Our effort to improve is an on-going process. While bringing about reforms and improving institutions, we have to be cautious that while shaking the tree to remove the bad fruit, we do not bring down the tree itself.
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