President Kovind calls for a civic-minded nation

On the eve of India's 69th Republic Day, President Ramnath Kovind addressed the nation where he spoke regarding a ‘civic-minded nation’, that disagrees with the views of others without affecting their dignity.

Following the protests opposing Padmaavat, the President said that disagreement can exist on viewpoints but it can be done mocking fellow citizens' dignity and personal space.

In his first Republic address, he said that there was no need to inconvenience neighbours whether it is while celebrating a festival, resorting to a protest or on any other occasion.

Calling citizens the country’s pillars, President Kovind also made a reference to the controversy involving the Supreme Court judges and said that Institutions need to maintain the discipline, integrity and limits without compromising on excellence. 

Four most senior judges of the Supreme Court challenged Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra's decisions in regard to allocation of cases.

He also made a reference to the Bill seeking to criminalise instant triple talaq, saying families and communities must hear the voices of their daughters and only then the policies and laws to ensure justice to women will be effective.

The President also called for a relook at learning-by-rote education, highlighted the challenge of malnutrition and the need to respect the rule of law.