“I do not think that the Bharat Ratna should be considered so inferior. Highly distinguished and selected people are presented with Bharat Ratna and we should keep it that way only. There is no bar on anybody respecting or appreciating someone,” Khurshid said.

“We can do it, media can do it, even the common people and any organisation can do it, but Bharat Ratna, we limit to people who truly are like the gemstones of our country,” he added.

Khurshid's remarks came in wake of Bollywood actor Anupam Kher's comments that veteran anti-graft crusader Anna Hazare should be conferred the Bharat Ratna.

The law minister, however, praised Hazare's anti-corruption crusade, but said only legislations and public speeches would not lead to the eradication of graft from the society.

Khurshid said the development work undertaken in Hazare's native village Ralegan Siddhi could be an inspiration for everyone.

“A lot has happened and a lot needs to be done. But only by saying things one cannot expect miracles to happen and that everything will be fine. It is not possible. There is need to take concrete step and this cannot happen by merely formulating a law or by giving speeches,” said Khurshid.