Anger justified, but violence no solution:President

Expressing deep anguish over the Delhi gang-rape incident, President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said “negative perceptions” about women which lead to criminal attacks must end and the women should be provided a safe and congenial environment to contribute to the nation.

Addressing students at the 9th convocation of Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology in Allahabad, Mukherjee cautioned that though anger over the “ghastly incident” was “justified”, violence was “no solution”.

 Mukherjee also expressed grief over the death of a Delhi Police constable who succumbed to injuries sustained during violent protests at India Gate on Sunday.

He said the government is alert to the situation and is taking necessary action to ensure that such unfortunate incidents are not repeated.

“I pray for the speedy recovery of the brave young girl. Criminal attacks against women often happen in the backdrop of negative perceptions about women harboured and propagated by certain elements in the society. This must end,” he said.

“The nation has been witness to the anger and rage of our youth, who have gathered in the streets of Delhi and other cities to demand stronger measures to ensure safety of women and more stringent laws to provide deterrent penalty to criminals, who endanger our women.” he added.

“I am certain that the government will take all necessary steps to ensure that such incidents do not occur in future. The PM has promised that all possible efforts to ensure security and safety for our mothers, sisters and daughters,” the President said.  To the protesters, he said, “Your anger is justified. I understand the agony of young mind, but please remember nothing is achieved through violence”.