New Delhi, Sep 21 (IANS): Describing communal violence as "insanity", President Pranab Mukherjee Saturday made an anguished and fervent appeal for collective efforts to spread the message of peace, harmony and non-violence.

Non-violence and peace are primary teachings of our civilization. No religion preaches violence but speaks of love, compassion and service, Mukherjee said during the launch of an 'All India Ahimsa Parmo Dharma Awareness Campaign' on International Peace Day here.

"A country which cannot protect and honour its mothers, sisters and daughters cannot consider itself civilised. Inter-religious and communal violence is insanity manifested and we must urgently bring sanity back into our midst," he said.

His comments came against the backdrop of recent communal riots in Muzaffarnagar in Uttar Pradesh that left 48 people dead and forced thousands to flee their homes.

The president said it was high time Indian society re-set its moral compass. "A few individuals alone cannot be blamed for the violence in our society. Our general apathy and tolerance of violence are equal culprits. Our inaction has created an atmosphere where violence begets violence," he said.

Mukherjee said the time has come to say enough is enough. "Humanity cannot tolerate this any more. We must save humanity and civilisation. This cannot be done by parliament or law enforcement machinery alone," the president added.

Various religious leaders also spoke on the occasion.

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