New Delhi: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) veteran Lal Krishna Advani on Saturday said the essence of Indian democracy is respect for diversity and freedom of expression, adding it is his sincere desire that all should collectively strive in strengthening this important democratic ingredient.
“It has been my strong belief that the essence of Indian democracy is respect for diversity and freedom of expression. It is this that has contributed to India being a successful democracy,” Advani said in a statement on the eve of India’s 75th Independence Day.
“Hence it is my sincere desire that all of us should collectively strive in strengthening this important democratic ingredient,” he added.
Asserting “it is indeed a special occasion”, Advani extended his heartiest greetings to all Indians as India celebrates its 75th Independence Day on Sunday.
The BJP veteran also paid his respectful homage to the sacred memory of hundreds of matryrs and heroes of the Indian freedom struggle.
“This occasion brings to me vivid memories of my own school days in the 1930s, when the only dream and prayer we had, was to see our country liberated from foreign bondage and move rapidly towards “Param Vaibhav”- Pinnacle of Glory,” Advani said in a statement on the eve of India’s 75th Independence Day.
“Eventually, when India became free on 15th August 1947, the triumph of freedom was accompanied by the tragedy of Partition. Having been a victim of it myself, I painfully recall the physical and emotional trauma this tragedy caused to the displaced people on both sides of the border,” he added.
Advani said India has over the years blossomed into a strong, prosperous and robust nation despite many challenges.
“India’s global profile has risen remarkably, the world is looking to our country for leadership in overcoming many pressing challenges ─ from accelerating the global economy to meeting the climate change obligations,” he added.
Advani expressed his delight to see a wave of national pride and self-confidence among the Indians of all walks of life.
“I am also grateful that life gave me an opportunity to devote my life in service of the nation in the post Independence era and make my own humble contribution through the instrument of my party- The Bharatiya Janata Party, that was co-founded in association with some of the most dedicated and selfless patriots,” said Advani.
“The theme of India's 75th Independence Day is ‘Nation First, Always First’. I feel this echoes with the guiding principle of my own life and the BJP- ‘Nation First, Party Next, Self Last’,” he added.