The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee presented Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards to Arun Jaitley, Dr. Karan Singh and Sharad Yadav for the years 2010, 2011 and 2012 respectively at a function organized by the Indian Parliamentary Group. Speaking on the occasion, the President recalled the distinguished Parliamentarians who have been recipients of the prestigious award in the past such as late Shri Indrajit Gupta, Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee, late Shri Chandrashekhar, Shri Somnath Chatterjee, Shri LK Advani and Dr. Manmohan Singh. He said the Award recognizes illustrious Parliamentarians who have contributed significantly to the strengthening of our democratic traditions and enriching our Parliamentary system. It honours our finest Parliamentarians who have upheld the dignity of the House and have set exemplary precedents in Parliamentary conduct.
The President said Arun Jaitley, Dr. Karan Singh and Sharad Yadav are worthy successors of the illustrious lineage of parliamentarians who have received the Award in the past. They have been steadfast in their commitment to our country and its people. All of them have made substantial contributions to our parliamentary life. Pointing out that India has a long history of parliamentary practice beginning from the Indian Councils Act of 1861, the President said parliamentary democracy is a great heritage which must be preserved, protected and nurtured.
The President complimented the Prime Minister for having commenced his innings in Parliament as leader of the majority party by bowing down in front of its steps and paying homage to this great institution. He called upon all parliamentarians to do everything possible to uphold the prestige, honour and dignity of the Parliament which was a symbol of our freedom struggle. He asked them to always remember that they and only they can undertake this important responsibility.