On the eve of India’s 76th Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the transformative potential of the One Nation One Election initiative, stressing its benefits for governance consistency, policy stability, and financial savings. The proposal seeks to synchronize Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections, streamlining the electoral process.
Promoting Governance Reforms and Justice
In her address, President Murmu highlighted the government’s efforts to eradicate colonial-era influences, citing the replacement of outdated British-era criminal laws. The newly introduced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam reflect a shift towards justice-centered legal systems.
LIVE: President Droupadi Murmu’s Address to the Nation on the eve of the 76th Republic Day https://t.co/kFBgdbIW5a
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“These laws prioritize justice over punishment and address crimes against women and children with utmost urgency,” she stated. The new legal framework is rooted in Indian jurisprudential traditions and is designed to modernize the criminal justice system.
Advocating One Nation One Election for Good Governance
President Murmu expressed her support for the One Nation One Election bill, describing it as a bold reform with the potential to redefine governance. She outlined its advantages, including:
– Consistency in governance.
– Prevention of policy paralysis.
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– Mitigation of resource diversion.
– Reduction in the financial burden on the exchequer.
“Reforms of such magnitude require an audacity of vision,” she remarked, emphasizing the potential of synchronized elections to streamline governance.
Recognizing India’s Heritage and Constitutional Legacy
The President highlighted the ongoing Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj as a celebration of India’s rich civilizational heritage. Reflecting on the progress achieved since Independence, she noted the country’s resilience in overcoming poverty and hunger while adhering to democratic values.
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“Our Constitution is a living document that binds us as one family and provides the foundation of our collective identity as Indians,” she said, underscoring its inclusive nature and its role in driving India’s growth.
President Murmu also praised the contributions of iconic leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, and Babasaheb Ambedkar, who helped India rediscover its democratic values and unite for independence.
Acknowledging Women’s Role in Nation-Building
Highlighting women’s empowerment, President Murmu noted the inclusion of 15 women in the Constituent Assembly and pointed out that 60% of new teachers in India today are women, signaling progress toward gender equality.
“When women’s equality was a distant goal in many parts of the world, Indian women were actively engaged in shaping the nation’s destiny,” she stated.
President Murmu praised India’s economic progress, noting a high growth rate, increased income for farmers and laborers, and improved job opportunities. She reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring housing, clean drinking water, and other basic necessities, emphasizing inclusive growth as a priority.
Honoring Freedom Fighters and Tribal Icons
The President urged citizens to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and marked the 150th birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda. She also called for a renewed commitment to Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals of truth, non-violence, and compassion.
“As India marches confidently towards the future, the dreams of today’s young generation, particularly young women, will shape the nation by the time it celebrates a century of independence,” she concluded.
The address, which underscored governance reforms, inclusivity, and India’s constitutional legacy, set a hopeful tone for the nation’s continued progress as it approaches its 100th year of independence.
