New Delhi: Addressing the 2023 Batch IAS Officer Trainees at the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration in Mussoorie, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar underscored India’s steadfast commitment to equality and urged vigilance against misinformation campaigns, particularly surrounding the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
Asserting India’s longstanding belief in equality, Vice President Dhankhar emphasized that the nation does not require guidance from external entities on this fundamental principle. He highlighted India’s pioneering achievements in gender equality, including the early appointment of a female Prime Minister and the consistent presence of women in top judicial positions.
Addressing concerns regarding the CAA, Vice President Dhankhar clarified that the act does not revoke citizenship from any Indian citizen nor does it prevent anyone from applying for Indian citizenship. Rather, it provides a pathway to citizenship for minorities facing persecution in neighboring countries based on their religious beliefs. He questioned the discriminatory labeling of such humanitarian efforts and urged for a nuanced understanding of the legislation.
Emphasizing that the CAA applies to individuals who arrived in India on or before December 31, 2014, Vice President Dhankhar refuted claims of it being an invitation for influx. He cautioned against the spread of false narratives aimed at undermining the nation’s integrity and called for a united effort to counter such strategies.
Reflecting on the transformation in governance, Vice President Dhankhar commended the eradication of systemic corruption and the enforcement of equality before the law. He acknowledged the pivotal role of civil servants in driving this change and called upon the new generation of officers to uphold democratic values and resist attempts to subvert them.
In a rallying call to combat misinformation and uphold democratic principles, Vice President Dhankhar urged for a collective effort to expose individuals seeking to monetize ignorance and undermine national progress. He reminded the IAS probationers of their role as exemplars and urged them to inspire and motivate through their actions.
As India strides forward on the global stage, Vice President Dhankhar hailed the nation’s achievements, including the exemplary performance of the Navy in safeguarding supply chains and rescuing victims of piracy. He celebrated India’s emergence as a beacon of hope and possibility, affirming its status as a nation on the move.
In conclusion, Vice President Dhankhar reiterated the importance of preserving democratic values, combating misinformation, and fostering a culture of integrity and accountability. He urged the young officers to lead by example and uphold the principles of justice, equality, and progress in their service to the nation.