Former president Kovind highlights importance of courage, compassion

New Delhi, Feb 28 (PTI) Former president Ram Nath Kovind on Friday emphasized the importance of courage, compassion, justice, dedication and morality as guiding principles for individuals and society.

Speaking as the chief guest at a conversation on ‘Diyasalai’, the autobiography of Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi, Kovind highlighted how these values have the power to dispel darkness and bring about a meaningful change.

“If we keep the flame of these values burning within us, we can illuminate the darkness around us,” he said.

The former president praised Satyarthi’s unwavering commitment to justice and child welfare, recalling a pivotal moment when the latter raised the issue of child abuse within the church during a discussion with Pope Francis.

Kovind noted that this act was the highest testament to Satyarthi’s moral strength and truthfulness.

“He fearlessly exposed the reality and as a result, stringent global laws were enacted to prevent child exploitation within the church,” he said.

The former president lauded Satyarthi’s lifelong dedication to child rights, stating that his values had transformed him into more than an individual — he had become an institution and a movement in himself.

“These five virtues — courage, compassion, justice, dedication and morality — have made Kailash Satyarthi an institution, a revolution,” he said.

Reflecting on his own inspiration from Satyarthi’s work, Kovind shared that he had been deeply moved by his determination and perseverance.

He called upon the society to take collective responsibility in ensuring education and protection for children.

“This is a call to all of us to contribute to children’s education. Let us pledge to ignite the spark within us and move towards a positive transformation in society,” Kovind said.