Pics: Umesh Marpalli
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)
Udupi, Jul 12: "We should restrict politics to just fighting the election. Now, as Narendra Modi has got popular mandate, we should strengthen his hands," opined former chief minister of Karnataka, S M Krishna.
He was speaking after having been conferred with the 'Rashtraratna' award by Paryaya Pejavar Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji at a function held at Rajangana of Srikrishna Math on Monday July 11.
"Everyone needs to reflect on what he has given to the nation, rather than wanting to know what the nation has done for him. In the background of these ideals, one has to naturally allow those who have won people's support to run administrative freely. This is the crux of democracy. Whenever the prime minister or government falter, they should be corrected through the means of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Prime minister, Modi, has before him the challenge of restoring crumbling values and tackle the role money is playing in politics and election. If Modi takes stern measures to restrain this menace, the entire country will hail him," Krishna stated.
Krishna said that on account of frequent foreign visits undertaken by Modi, a better image of Indian traditions and heritage is being created everywhere. "Caste system has been the worst enemy of our country. Social transformation becomes possible only when we are able to pin down casteism without becoming bonded by castes," he asserted.
Sri Vishweshateertha Swamiji, in his benedictory address, said that S M Krishna, a staunch devotee of Lord Krishna, has always reposed love and faith on him. He hailed Krishna for playing a stellar role in the development of Karnataka.
Junior Swamiji of Pejavar Math, Sri Vishwaprasannateertha, also spoke on the occasion. Prema Krishna was present.
'Let minister George act as per his conscience'
"Some of the developments taking place in the state including suicides by police officers have been worrisome. Those who are ruling the state should treat these issues with all seriousness and cogitate upon them properly. An environment needs to be created in which officers can work freely and without any fear," opined S M Krishna.
He was speaking to media persons during his visit to the town on Monday July 11. He also opined that if there are deficiencies or shortcomings, a system under which they can be discussed in a fitting environment and a lasting solution could be found, should be in place.
About the challenges being faced by the current state government, Krishna said that all the governments keep facing one or the other problematic situations often. "In comparison to challenges and crises we faced when I was heading the state government here, the current problems are miniscule. How one manages the challenges and problems decides one's capacity. Honest and transparent efforts to solve problems showcase the administrative capacity of the leaders," he stated.
When questioned by media people about his opinon on demand for minister, K J George's resignation, Krishna refused to give any specific response. "I have not closely watched recent developments including suicide cases. Those who run the administration have more information on hand. Everyone has conscience, and people in power should follow their conscience in times like these," he felt.