The nation has got a new President. Ram Nath Kovind has taken over the reins of Rashtrapati Bhavan at the end of Pranab Mukherjee’s tenure. The smooth transfer of power shows the maturity of the Indian democratic system. But what is more unique is that the former and the incumbent presidents spoke in the same language while delivering their last and first addresses respectively. Unity in diversity was the theme of both the speeches. One must not forget this fact that though spoken in unison they belong to different ideologies. Yet by strongly advocating One India, where different beliefs languages and culture can co-exist, both these gentlemen proved beyond doubt that we may adopt different roads but our goal is the same. We all strive to build a nation which will not be known for its military power but for its tolerances and sacrifices.
One must admit here that some recent happenings do not match the values that India has preserved for centuries. Why Eklakh was killed? Where is Najeeb? Why Gurmehar Kaur had to leave Delhi after promoting peace and denouncing war? All these questions and few other queries should be answered if we really want to make India a protector of mankind. We must keep in mind that leaders at the top can only offer us guidance. They can enrich us with their understanding and knowledge about India. But implementation of their thoughts is our duty. We simply can’t blame our leaders if India deviates from its ideals. It is the duty of each Indian and every citizen to prevent such diversions and to keep the nation firmly on the right track.
This task has become more difficult with the emergence of a bunch of neo-patriots. These so called patriots are indulging all sorts of hooliganism and evading law using Mother India as a shield. There is no gainsaying that these people have done more harm than good to the composite social fabric of our country. Today, a certain section of people in our country are living in fear. Many of them either have changed their profession or left their native places in search of a safer place. This is completely against the ethos of India. The neo-patriots have even tried to dictate who should eat what, which apparels one should wear, etc. Clearly, this is a dangerous trend. No matter how loudly they chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Joy’ each and every member of this group should be put behind bars without any further delay. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on several occasions urged the group not to create unnecessary trouble in the name of cow protection or on any other pretext. But the group so far did not pay any heed to his appeals. They are not patriots. They are criminals and they should be treated in the same manner as other criminals. Only then, the dream of One India will come to true. Otherwise, we will move far away from the century-old traditions of India. No matter what our leaders say, India will earn the reputation of an intolerant country. May our new president, Ram Nath Kovind protect and propel the hope of One India.
