PM Modi says rise of Radhakrishnan to post of Vice President reflects true strength of democracy
New Delhi (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the rise of C P Radhakrishnan from an ordinary background to the office of Vice President reflects the true strength of democracy, and hoped his experience and guidance will aid in the smooth running of the Rajya Sabha.
In September, Chandrapuram Ponnusami (C P) Radhakrishnan was elected as India's 15th Vice President, a post that made him the ex officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
At the start of the Winter Session of Parliament, Modi congratulated him and wished that the House, under this guidance, would have meaningful discussions and take crucial decisions.
"I congratulate you, and I am confident that every member of this House will honour its traditions and uphold your dignity as well," the Prime Minister said.
The Winter Session is the first Parliament session Radhakrishnan is presiding over as the chairman of the Upper House.
Radhakrishnan comes from an ordinary family of farmers and has dedicated his entire life to social service. "Politics has been only one part of your journey - service to society has been your central mission from youth until now."
"Your rise from such humble beginnings to this high office truly represents the strength of our democracy," he said.
Modi said Radhakrishnan has consistently remained above protocol. "Your personality reflects service, dedication, and patience."
He went on to recall two incidents that shaped his character -- as a child, when he narrowly escaped drowning, it turned that moment into a lifelong commitment to serve society.
He also narrowly survived a bomb blast that targeted former deputy prime minister L K Adani's yatra. He again converted that experience into a resolve to work even harder for the nation.
Modi went on to narrate how the Vice President decided to give up eating non-vegetarian food when he visited Varanasi.
"I'm not saying eating non-vegetarian is wrong, but as the MP from Varanasi, I acknowledge this gesture warmly," he said.
Stating that Radhakrishnan displayed strong leadership qualities since his student days, Modi said he chose struggle over the easy path. During the Emergency, he fought as a true soldier of democracy and worked for public awareness.
He has always been a skilled organiser, excelling in every responsibility entrusted to him and bringing people together.
"Today is a proud moment for all of us. Your journey inspires the entire nation. I once again congratulate you," he added.
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VHP warns of statewide stir in Karnataka against move to ease cattle transport law
Udupi (Karnataka) (PTI): The VHP on Saturday demanded the immediate withdrawal of a proposed amendment to the Karnataka Prevention of Slaughter and Preservation of Cattle Act, 2020, accusing the state government of weakening a law that has deterred illegal cattle transport.
The organisation's Go Raksha Wing, Karnataka South, has also announced district-level protests on December 8.
According to officials, the existing law mandates a bank guarantee for securing the release of vehicles seized for alleged illegal cattle transportation.
On December 4, the state Cabinet proposed an amendment enabling the release of such vehicles on an indemnity bond instead.
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Addressing reporters in Udupi, VHP leader and Prantha Goraksha Pramukh Sunil K R, said the government's move amounted to "sympathy for cattle lifters" and claimed that it was part of broader actions "targeting Hindus".
He argued that the law in its current form is stringent and has played a crucial role in reducing incidents of illegal cattle transport and theft.
Under the Act, vehicles involved in offences can be surrendered and, upon conviction, permanently seized by authorities. "Diluting these provisions will embolden offenders," Sunil said.
The VHP leader warned that easing the process of vehicle release would not only encourage violators but also result in rising cruelty against cattle.
Sunil further claimed that the strict enforcement of the 2020 law had brought down cases of cattle-related offences significantly. Rolling back these provisions, he said, could reverse those gains and would lead to an increase in illegal transport.
He reiterated that the government must reconsider its decision and preserve the integrity of the existing law.
