Maintain sanctity of Constitution: Prez to Governors

New Delhi, Feb 9: Amidst controversies over the role of Governors, President Pranab Mukherjee today said all those who hold Constitutional positions should maintain sanctity of the Constitution.

"It is primarily due to our steadfast adherence to the principles enshrined in our Constitution. It is an enduring document that reflects our aspirations and the avenues to achieve them, in an inclusive manner.

"It is incumbent on us all who hold constitutional positions to maintain the sanctity of this sacred text," Mukherjee said inaugurating a two-day conference of Governors at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here.

The President's call assumes significance against the backdrop of a raging controversy over the role of Governor J P Rajkhowa in Arunachal Pradesh that led to various developments culminating in the imposition of central rule.

The issue is also being fought in the Supreme Court. Terming as difficult the last year that saw terror attacks with "clear external linkages", he said the country has to continue efforts to resolve all outstanding international issues through peaceful dialogue and negotiations.

"We faced challenges from the global economic slowdown, climatic changes, and internal and external security. States having international borders were affected by terrorist attacks that had clear external linkages".

"Volatile external security environment makes it incumbent on us to upgrade our defence capabilities. At the same time, we have to continue our efforts at resolving all outstanding international issues through peaceful dialogue and negotiations," the President said in his inaugural address at the conference attended by 23 Governors and Lt Governors of the states and union territories.

PTI