Lakhimpur Kheri, Oct 28 (PTI) Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Wednesday stressed that disagreements in a democracy must be handled with mutual respect, invoking the teachings of 15th-century mystic poet and Saint Kabir Das to underline the importance of balanced speech, equality and social harmony.
Addressing a gathering at Kabirdham in Gola tehsil here on the occasion of the 60th birth anniversary of Sant Asang Dev Maharaj, Birla said differences of opinion and perspectives were natural in a democracy, but every disagreement should be handled with mutual respect.
He said the balanced and measured speech advocated by saintly traditions, following the ideals of Kabir Das, offered guidance on navigating differences in a democratic society.
Birla lauded Sant Asang Dev Maharaj for his efforts to bring positive changes in people’s lives and praised saints and spiritual leaders for spreading Kabir’s teachings and contributing to social transformation.
Highlighting the enduring relevance of Kabir’s teachings, Birla said spreading the saint’s message of equality, empathy and harmony could help bridge divisions in society.
Elaborating on Kabir’s personality and works, he drew parallels between the mystic poet’s historic efforts to eradicate social evils and the contemporary need for introspection.
Kabir’s dohas (couplets) continue to guide humanity towards self-reflection, truth and moral integrity rather than judging others, the Lok Sabha Speaker said.
The event also featured the foundation-laying ceremony of the Kabir Smriti Bhavan.
It was attended by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, former Union minister Ajay Mishra Teni, state Water Resources Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, state Excise Minister Nitin Agarwal, local legislators and saints from different parts of the country.
Addressing the gathering, Maurya sought public support for the BJP until Prime Minister Narendra Modi makes India a developed country by 2047.
He said Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at the Centre and Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav in Uttar Pradesh would have to wait until then.
Birla had earlier arrived at Chaudhary Charan Singh Airport in Lucknow, where he also met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. PTI COR ABN NB
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