Need to ensure every Indian can live without fear, says Pranab Mukherjee

Kolkata: Underlining the pluralistic nature of India, President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday said that the social fabric of our country would remain strong if every individual can live without "fear and prejudice".

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the bicentenary celebrations of the diocese of Calcutta, Mukherjee said every religion preaches the fundamental values of humanity.

"Forbearance, restraint and acceptance of different views form some of our core principles. India prides itself on its pluralistic ideals," he said.

The President said that in India, several major religions have thrived due to its assimilative capacity and it is that which has come to define our civilisation over the centuries.

"The fabric of our society would remain strong when every individual irrespective of caste, creed, region and religion can live and partake in progress without fear and prejudice," he said.

In the wake of the Dadri lynching incident and amidst the debate over claims of rising intolerance, Mukherjee has been appealing for tolerance and pluralism in the country. He has also stressed that unity in diversity is part of India's civilisational values.