India Today Conclave 2017: Don’t want an India that says yes to one man: Pranab Mukherjee

From a college teacher in Kolkata to the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee sure has had a long journey as a political and public figure. At the India Today #Conclave17, unfolding in Mumbai’s Grant Hyatt, President Mukherjee’s keynote address was really the highlight of the day.

He said that even though the Indian Prime Minister, from Nehru to Indira Gandhi, derived their power from the people, India should not become a country that says yes to just one man or woman. President Mukherjee wants a strong Opposition for a strong democracy and a strong Parliament.

He started off casually. “I am notorious for exceeding the time limit given to me for speaking at such events,” he said to a cheerful audience.

The key points of his speech were the following:

Influences

“Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru had been the biggest influence on my life. Nehru discouraged hero worship. He made Parliament vibrant.”

On India

“Indian democratic process is unfolding. Today India is the biggest producer of foodgrain. This has been possible because of the efforts of successive prime ministers.”

Indira Gandhi

“Indira Gandhi was a very strong leader. Her political high point was the liberation of Bangladesh. But it was discreet. Mrs Gandhi never spoke for division of Bangladesh but only pleaded for India.”

On prime ministership

“In India, the prime minister derives power, authority from the people. From Nehru to Indira and now to Narendra Modi. Unlike in France and the USA, power in India is concentrated in the PM. Question is how will s/he exercise it.”

“But I don’t want an India that says yes to one man, to his moral authority. A strong Opposition is must for a democracy.”

On Parliament

“I have been witnessing disruptions in Parliament. I would urge everyone to strive to get consensus on issues. Parliament is crucial for debates, that’s essential for democracy. Vicious cycle of disruptions should end. Parliament can’t alter the Constitution.”

On Modi

“I have worked with several PMs during my career. Have learnt many things from them all. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was one PM whose style of working was completely different. We should give credit to PM Modi on how quickly he picked up the proceedings of Parliament. He had no prior experience, coming from a state administration.”

On himself

“I have never thought that just because I held different offices for 37 years, I demand more respect. Office is nothing, service is. I am part of this democracy. I am part of the mass and I will melt into it without leaving a legacy.”

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