Former President Ram Nath Kovind expressed concerns on Thursday about the increasing reluctance of good people to engage in politics. Speaking as the chief guest at the annual Vijayadashmi rally of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) in Reshimbagh ground, Kovind called upon the youth of India to actively participate in shaping the nation’s political landscape.
Kovind’s remarks came during a significant occasion that also celebrated the centenary of the RSS, an organization founded by Keshav Baliram Hedgewar on Dussehra in 1925. He noted his deep admiration for both Hedgewar and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, stating, “I was inspired by the values of national unity and social harmony shared by Dr. Ambedkar and Dr. Hedgewar.” He emphasized the importance of these values in fostering a robust and inclusive political environment.
During his address, Kovind asserted that the RSS promotes an ethos free from casteism and discrimination. “There is no casteism and discrimination in RSS,” he said, underlining the organization’s commitment to social welfare and unity. He further elaborated that the founder’s “vichar” (thoughts) have profoundly influenced his understanding of society and the country’s well-being.
The former president lamented the absence of principled individuals in politics, stating, “Good people are not joining politics.” He reiterated the necessity for active youth engagement in governance and political reform, which he believes is crucial for a vibrant democracy.
Kovind announced that he is in the process of writing a book titled ‘Triumph of the Indian Republic,’ where he aims to discuss the country’s political evolution and the key figures who shaped it. This book, as he explained, seeks to inspire future generations to take pride in India’s democratic framework.
In conclusion, Kovind’s powerful remarks at the Vijayadashmi rally resonate with a broader societal concern — the need for integrity and earnestness in politics. His call to action serves as a reminder of the responsibility of young Indians to participate in the nation’s governance, ensuring that true representations of integrity and values continue to flourish within the political sphere.
