Shloka 6.16.21
विभीषणोपदेशे रावणस्य परुषवाक्यम् (Ravana’s Harsh Reply to Vibhishana’s Counsel)
सुलभाःपुरुषराजन् सततंप्रियवादिनः ।अप्रियस्यचपथ्यस्यवक्ताश्रोताचदुर्लभः ।।।।
sulabhāḥ puruṣa rājan satataṃ priyavādinaḥ | apriyasya ca pathyasya vaktā śrotā ca durlabhaḥ ||
O King, people who always speak pleasing words are easy to find; but one who speaks what is unpleasant yet wholesome—and one who can listen to it—are both rare.
"O King! Those who speak pleasingly are always easier to find than those who speak unpleasant but good words. Listeners of unpleasant words (though good) are difficult (to find)."
Dharma values truthful, beneficial speech over flattery; both honest advisors and receptive leaders are rare and essential for righteous rule.
Vibhīṣaṇa contrasts flattering courtiers with genuine well-wishers, implicitly criticizing the atmosphere around Rāvaṇa.
Satya with hita (truth with welfare): the courage to speak and the maturity to hear difficult truths.