As the budget session commenced, President Pranab Mukherjee today hit out at the frequent disruption and obstruction of Parliament and urged MPs to function in a spirit of cooperation, asserting that it reflects the supreme will of the people.
In his customary address to the year's first session of Parliament prepared by the government outlining its agenda for the coming fiscal, he skipped contentious issues like the unrest in the JNU or Hyderabad University or the reservation agitation in Haryana.
The President declared that the government will constantly strive for smooth and construction conduct of Parliamentary business
"Our Parliament reflects the supreme will of the people. Democratic temper calls for debate and discussion, and not disruption of obstruction.
"My government will constantly strive for smooth and constructive conduct of Parliamentary business. I urge all Members of Parliament to discharge their solemn responsibilities in a spirit of cooperation and mutual accommodation. Let us all collectively endeavour to build a flourishing and prosperous India," he said.
The President remarks assume significance in the context of repeated disruption of business on various issues, loss of time of Parliament and the stalling of legislative business in Rajya Sabha where the government lacks majority.
The 75-minute speech was heard in rapt attention by members in the central hall of Parliament and occasional thumping of desks, especially when he regretted the disruptions and appealed for smooth functioning of Parliament.
"Let noble thoughts come from all directions, should be the spirit behind the debate in this temple of democracy. Being a member of this great institution bestows great honour as well as important responsibilities," Mukherjee said.
The President used the occasion to give a report on the
economy describing India as "a haven of stability" in a turbulent global economy and said government has simplified procedures for approvals, repealed obsolete laws and put in place a non-adversarial tax regime to attract
Turning to Pakistan, he said the government is committed to forging a "mutually respectful relationship" with that country while asserting that "firm and effective" steps will be taken to deal with any situation arising out of cross-border terrorism.
The President said the government is fully committed to firmly dealing with all challenges concerning the security of the country.
"Terrorism is a global threat and strong counter measures are necessary worldwide to eradicate it completely," Mukherjee said, congratulating the security forces for successfully foiling the recent terror attack at the Pathankot air base.
He said, "firm and effective steps will be taken to deal with any situation arising out of cross-border terrorism."
Terming the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) as "the world's most successful" financial inclusion programme, Mukherjee said Rs 32,000 crore worth of deposits have been mobilised from over 21 crore account holders under the scheme.
