Media Eye News Bureau: The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind, delivered the 4th Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Memorial Lecture in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, the President said that Dr Ram Manohar Lohia dedicated his life to the welfare of the people, and struggled relentlessly for the deprived sections of society.
"For Dr Lohia, the definition of weaker sections of society included Dalits, tribals, women and backward castes. He suggested providing them “special opportunity”. Dr Lohia had said that if it were a choice between “equal opportunity” and “special opportunity”, then “special opportunity” should be chosen. There can be talk of “equal opportunity” only when everyone has equal access to education, employment, livelihood, etc", Kovind said.
The President said Dr Lohia could be called the Sant Kabir of Indian politics due to his endless striving, ceaseless political journey, and courage to abandon everything for his beliefs, and ability to speak the truth directly.
Earlier in the day, Kovind graced a function, as chief guest, to declare Gwalior as a “Divyang friendly district” and to distribute artificial limbs. He also addressed the convocation of Jiwaji University, before returning to Delhi.
Speaking at the function to declare Gwalior as a “Divyang friendly district”, the President praised the Government and NGOs for their efforts to make life better and easier for our Divyang fellow citizens. He urged people to increase awareness and sensitivity about disabilities.
