Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Raises Concerns Over Institutionalised Attempts to Convert People in India

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted concerns about organised efforts to convert people in India. Speaking at the Chhattisgarh Rajyotsav statehood celebrations, he emphasised the need to eradicate Left-Wing Extremism. "Selfless service should be selfless. There should be no selfishness in selfless service," he stated. He warned against attempts to change faith through various means, describing it as an attack on India's ancient culture.

Dhankhar expressed concern over the exploitation of innocence and spreading of misconceptions. He urged immediate action against such forces to preserve India's soul. He noted that tribal communities were particularly targeted and stressed the importance of vigilance against this mentality. "India has a culture of taking everyone along where every section of society has a special place. This culture should be preserved forever," he said.

Addressing Naxalism and Youth Opportunities

Naxalism remains a significant issue for Chhattisgarh's youth, according to Dhankhar. He acknowledged the efforts of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and former Chief Minister Raman Singh in addressing Maoism. He cautioned against youth being misled into violence, noting that history shows negative outcomes from armed rebellion. "It is a good thing that today the youth are getting many opportunities due to the positive policies of the government," he added.

Recalling the Emergency period under Indira Gandhi's government, Dhankhar stressed the importance of protecting the Constitution. "We are approaching Constitution Day. I urge the youth to remember the role of the Constitution. It is the bedrock on which our nation stands," he said. He reminded that fundamental rights were suspended during that time, urging lessons be learned from this dark chapter.

Constitutional Rights and Women's Representation

The Vice President praised the passage of a bill reserving 33% of seats for women in legislative assemblies and Lok Sabha. He noted that this reservation could exceed one-third representation for women in Scheduled Castes and Tribes categories. Dhankhar commended Chhattisgarh for electing 19 women to its assembly, many from SC and ST communities.

Dhankhar emphasised that state progress is intertwined with national development, stating they complement each other. "The interests of the state cannot be separated from the interests of the nation. The state and the nation are one," he remarked. The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Governor Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Sai, and Assembly Speaker Raman Singh.