Haridwar, Aug 15 (IANS) On the occasion of the 80th Independence Day of India, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev on Saturday hoisted the National Flag at Patanjali Yogpeeth and said that the “country does not belong to political parties but to its 145 crore citizens.”
Speaking to reporters, Baba Ramdev extended his warm wishes to the people of the country and remembered the sacrifices of the freedom fighters who laid down their lives for India’s Independence.
“Very warm wishes to all the country’s residents on Independence Day. These wishes are also a reminder that lakhs of brave men and women sacrificed their lives to free Mother India. Now, it is our duty to fulfil our responsibility of making India the world’s greatest economic, spiritual and political superpower,” he said.
Baba Ramdev said India was not the country of any particular political party or ruling establishment, but belonged equally to every citizen.
“This country is not for political parties or only for the ruling party. It does not belong only to MLAs, MPs, the Prime Minister or the President. This country belongs to 145 crore Indians. The rights and responsibilities that a Prime Minister or President has are also shared by every citizen,” he said.
“This is what independence means. These rights have been given to us by the Constitution,” he added.
He appealed to political leaders not to fight among themselves and instead resolve differences through democratic discussions.
“Don’t fight with the people of the country. There is Pakistan and there are other foreign forces to fight against. We have enough people to fight. Leaders should not fight among themselves. They should hold discussions in a democratic manner. ‘Divide and rule’ is still active in our country. We should take the country forward with love,” he said.
Ramdev also called for appreciation of positive developments while expressing concern over issues faced by the younger generation.
“We should appreciate it when something is going well in the country. A lot of Gen-Z members are doing really great work, although some are also involved in creating riots,” he said.
He urged both the younger generation and elders to work together and respect each other.
“There is uproar everywhere in the country. Children from small villages are saying they do not have teachers, electricity or water. People complain about paper leaks. Even after passing Class 10 or 12, students have to clear competitive examinations to secure admission,” he said.
Ramdev also alleged irregularities in government recruitment and raised concerns over corruption, caste and ideological considerations in selection processes.
“This is against the Constitution. On one hand, we talk about ‘Satyamev Jayate’, while on the other, such things happen and even bribes of more than Rs 1 crore are allegedly taken,” he said.
He warned that if such issues were not addressed, public protests could intensify.
“I don’t support anarchy in the name of protest, but one thing is certain: There are many scams. Correct them and ensure they do not happen, otherwise it may come to a point where I have to come out and protest,” he said.
–IANS
jk/rad
