Date:21/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/21/stories/2008082160531200.htm

National

Tradition of harmony facing grave challenge: Manmohan

NEW DELHI: In an apparent reference to the divide caused by the Amarnath land issue in Jammu and Kashmir, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Wednesday said the tradition of harmony in the country was facing a “grave challenge” with “divisive forces” at work.

Speaking at a function held to present the Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Award for 2007 to social worker and writer N. Radhakrishnan here, Dr. Singh said the country was once again confronting “forces trying to spread hatred and disharmony.”

Prof. Radhakrishnan, who was honoured for his works promoting Mahatma Gandhi’s ideals, received the award and a cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh from senior Congress leader Karan Singh at the function attended by UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and ministers. The Prime Minister presented a shawl to him. Earlier at a press conference, Prof. Radhakrishnan said the government should start a dedicated ministry for peace and conflict resolution. — PTI