One must not forget Ahinsa while fighting for a cause: President Ram Nath Kovind

New Delhi : President Ram Nath Kovind, during his address to the nation on the eve of 71st Republic Day, spoke about the importance of sticking with constitutional ideals, saying that it is the responsibility of citizens to adhere to the tenets of democracy enshrined in the Constitution.

Specifically addressing the youth of the nation, Ram Nath Kovind said that while fighting for a cause, must never forget "the gift of Ahimsa" given by Mahatma Gandhi to humanity.

"Our Constitution gave us rights as citizens of a free democratic nation, but also placed on us the responsibility to always adhere to the central tenets of our democracy - justice, liberty, equality and fraternity," he said in his address.

"It becomes easier for us to follow these constitutional ideals, if we keep in mind the life and values of the Father of our Nation. By doing so, we will be adding a meaningful dimension to our celebrations of 150th birth anniversary of Gandhi ji," he added.

He also stressed upon the balance the government and opposition must maintain to make country grow.

"Government and opposition both have important roles to play. While giving expression to their political ideas, both must move forward in tandem to ensure that development of the country and welfare of its people are promoted consistently," he said.