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(The Hindu, Editorial) (The selection of President, camaraderie of the political class)
Context :
- The election to the posts of President and Vice President is a moment when contested democracy gives way to broad agreement and the camaraderie of the political class.
- Felicitation of new elected President
- On July 25, the newly elected President of India Ram Nath Kovind was sworn in at the Central Hall of Parliament.
- The function was attended by Members of Parliament cutting across party lines and Chief Ministers who represented different political persuasions.
Farewell to Outgoing President :
- Earlier, last Sunday, a cross-section of MPs attended a touching farewell to outgoing President Pranab Mukherjee, a man associated with Indian parliamentary democracy since 1969.
- Choice of President: not unanimous
- Not all those who attended both functions had voted for either President Kovind or President Mukherjee.
- Unsuccessful candidates were included C.D. Deshmukh, H.R.
- Khanna, K. Subba Rao, Tridib Chaudhuri, Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and P.A. Sangma.
- However, the mere fact that the presidency was contested didn’t either diminish the office or ensure unending controversy over the person of the Head of State.
- The respect and dignity of that office has always been maintained by all shades of political opinion.
Reasons :
- The holder of a constitutional office such as the President or Vice President is not expected to be another battering ram on behalf of the Prime Minister and the ruling dispensation.
- The Head of State is expected to adhere to the letter of the Constitution.
- The only occasion the President can somewhat exercise his discretion is in selecting the Prime Minister in the event of a fractured election verdict.
