President Pranab Mukherjee said dissent should not be expressed through emotions, but discussions, while speaking at an event organised in New Delhi to mark National Press Day. He also said that national awards are given in recognition of talent, merit and hard work and should be valued. More than 40 eminent scholars and writers have returned their awards in protest against what they call the growing intolerance in the country.
The President publicly reflected on the intolerance matter for the fourth time in the last few weeks, saying that everyone must value the principles laid out in the constitution. “As proud Indians, we must have confidence in the idea of India and the values and principles enshrined in our constitution. India has always been able to self-correct whenever such a need has arisen,” he said.
He had earlier stressed on the need to preserve pluralism and act against the growing intolerance in the country.
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