“The last few months have witnessed people come out on the streets in large numbers, particularly the young, to voice their views on issues, which in their opinion, are important. Their assertion and belief in the Constitution of India is particularly heartening to see," the former President said in his speech at the event organised by the Election Commission of India (ECI). "I believe the present wave of largely peaceful protests that have gripped the country shall once again enable further deepening of our democratic roots." The remarks by the former Union minister and senior Congress leader who served as India's President from 2012 to 2017 came amid massive protests, particularly by young and the women, against the controversial citizenship law and the NRC. The new law promises citizenship to members of 6 non-Muslim communities from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India before December 31, 2014.

Source: dna January 23, 2020 19:07 UTC