How Can Political Parties Foster Mutual Respect?

New Delhi, July 20 (NationPress) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Sunday emphasized the importance of fostering harmony and mutual respect among political parties.

“I urge all members of the political arena to embrace mutual respect. It is crucial to refrain from using inappropriate language, whether on television or elsewhere, against the leadership of any party. This behavior does not reflect our civilizational values. We need to be cautious with our language and avoid personal attacks. I call on politicians to stop resorting to name-calling. Such actions do not benefit our culture, especially when individuals from various political parties target senior members of others,” he stated.

He expressed that there must be a profound sense of decorum and mutual respect, which is a fundamental requirement of our culture.

“Without this, we cannot achieve unity in our thought processes. Trust me, if political dialogue occurs at a higher level, if leaders engage with one another more often, they can exchange ideas individually, ultimately benefiting the nation's interests. Why should we engage in conflict among ourselves? Let’s not seek enemies within,” he remarked.

He highlighted that every political party and parliamentarian in India is, at their core, a nationalist who believes in the nation's progress.

“They are committed to the nation's advancement. Democracy is inherently dynamic; no single party stays in power indefinitely. We have observed changes at various levels—state, panchayat, and municipal—illustrating a healthy democratic process. However, one constant remains: the necessity for a continuous development ethos and respect for our democratic culture,” he added.

“A vibrant democracy, my friends, cannot thrive in an environment of perpetual conflict. Your peace of mind should be disturbed when you witness political discord or an unhealthy political atmosphere. I urge everyone to lower the political temperature. Politics should not be confrontational; it cannot be one-dimensional,” he asserted.

The Vice President further noted that differing political ideologies exist, but the essence of politics is working towards a shared goal, albeit via different methods.

“I firmly believe that no individual in this country would think against the nation. I cannot envision a political party opposing the concept of Bharat. They may have varying approaches and perspectives, but it is essential to engage in constructive dialogue. Confrontation is not a viable solution. When we quarrel among ourselves, even in politics, we inadvertently empower our adversaries. We provide them with the means to divide us. Therefore, young minds constitute a powerful pressure group. You possess immense influence. Your ideas can steer politicians, parliamentarians, and local leaders. Focus on the nation. Focus on development,” he urged.

While addressing the inaugural event for the eighth batch of participants in the Rajya Sabha Internship Programme (RSIP) at the Vice-President's Enclave, Dhankhar emphasized, “Let us set aside politics when it pertains to national interests, development, and growth. Let us not politicize matters of national security and concern. India must maintain its esteemed position among the community of nations. We are respected globally. The notion that Bharat can be controlled externally contradicts our sovereignty. Why should our political agenda be dictated by forces hostile to Bharat? Why should it be swayed by our enemies?”