Indians are known to be argumentative but never intolerant: President Mukherjee

Mumbai(Maharashtra) [India], Mar. 17(ANI): Advocating the notion of free debate and discussion in the society, President Pranab Mukherjee on Friday noted that Indians, are known to be argumentative, but never intolerant. "Free speech and expression is not only guaranteed by our Constitution but has been an important characteristic of our civilisation and tradition. Indians are known to be argumentative, but never intolerant. In fact, a conclave such as this is one of the best examples of the free debate and discussion that should take place in our society. In fact, a conclave such as this is one of the best examples of the free debate and discussion that should take place in our society," he said in a conclave in Mumbai. President Mukherjee's comment came in the wake of debates on social media about targeting individuals for having a different opinion. President Mukherjee said he was also impressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s way of dealing with things and his quick learning aptitude. "The present Prime Minister Narendra Modi has his own ways of doing things. We must give credit to him. He is a quick learner. He has picked up quickly from being the head of a federal state to lead the nation by mastering over foreign relations, external economy and internal factors.I was extremely happy to hear Prime Minister Modi speak about the need for humility in the aftermath of his party's victory in recent elections to Uttar Pradesh and other state assemblies," he added. He also expressed displeasure over frequent disruptions in Parliament. President Mukherjee said, "I am disturbed, the days of Parliament sittings are reducing. Parliament is a primary forum for debate. End vicious cycle of disruption. Strive to get consensus on issues" (ANI)