Modi should be allowed to show contrition to move on: Murthy

Murthy said: “While, I am fully committed to secular democracy as the fundamental corner stone of India for ages to come, I only said that we are all human beings. God is not finished with us. Therefore let us give an opportunity to the individual to show his sense of contrition and then move on.”

Echoing his views, former Union Minister Arun Shourie said that better way is to focus on the pluralism of the Indian society and not the secularist aspect.

“State and religion must be completely separated. We have to respect pluralism and every leader has to practice this,” he added.

Noted jurist Fali S Nariman said: “I do not place great regard on democracy.... During my time the democracy was tolerant, but today it has become intolerant. We have to create a system that maximises opportunities for the minorities.”

Nobel laureate Amartya Sen said: “Secularism and democracy are very important. Secularism has always been in India since the ancient times like during the time of Akbar.  Democracy has never been defined as majority rule. Democracy is governance by discussion.”