Constitutional Offices Hold Importance; Every Citizen Is Supreme

The Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, emphasized the crucial role of citizens in a democracy during his address at the University of Delhi. Speaking at the ‘Kartavyam’ event, which celebrated 75 years of the Indian Constitution, he asserted that every citizen holds significant power and responsibility in shaping the nation. Dhankhar rejected the notion that constitutional roles are merely ceremonial, highlighting that democracy thrives when citizens are engaged and proactive.

Citizens as the Cornerstone of Democracy

In his remarks, Vice-President Dhankhar underscored the idea that every citizen is integral to the democratic framework of India. He stated, “A citizen is supreme because a nation and democracy are built by citizens.” This assertion reflects his belief that the vitality of democracy lies in the active participation of its citizens. He pointed out that the essence of democracy is not just in the laws but in the collective actions and contributions of individuals. The Vice-President stressed that when citizens are alert and engaged, democracy flourishes, and its values are strengthened. He called for a deeper understanding of the responsibilities that come with citizenship, urging individuals to recognize their power in shaping the democratic landscape.

The Role of Parliament and Accountability

During the event, Dhankhar articulated the supremacy of Parliament within the constitutional framework, stating that no authority exists above it. He emphasized that Parliament’s authority is equivalent to that of every individual in the country, reinforcing the concept that democracy is built on the foundation of collective will. He referred to the Preamble of the Constitution, which declares that “We, the People of India” hold the ultimate power. This power is exercised through public representatives who are accountable to the citizens, as evidenced by historical events such as the accountability of a Prime Minister during the Emergency in 1977. Dhankhar’s remarks highlighted the importance of elected representatives in safeguarding the Constitution and ensuring it reflects the aspirations of the people.

Quality of Discourse in Democracy

The Vice-President also addressed the significance of discourse quality in assessing the health of democracy. He posed critical questions regarding the moderation and manipulation of public discourse, urging citizens to discern the influences that may distort democratic dialogue. Dhankhar pointed out that a healthy democracy thrives on open expression and respectful dialogue. He warned against the dangers of a discourse dominated by power and money, which can undermine democratic values. By advocating for a culture of debate and diverse perspectives, he reinforced the idea that democracy is not merely about governance but also about the active engagement of individuals in shaping societal norms and values.

The Role of Youth in Nation-Building

In his concluding remarks, Dhankhar highlighted the pivotal role of youth in the future of the nation. He encouraged young people to rise above partisan interests and focus on national priorities, especially at a time when India is poised to become a global power. The Vice-President urged the youth to engage in thoughtful deliberation and contribute positively to the democratic process. He emphasized that nations are built not just by leaders but by the collective efforts of individuals, reinforcing the notion that every citizen has the potential to influence the course of the nation. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delhi, Shri Yogesh Singh, and other prominent figures, marking a significant occasion in the celebration of India’s constitutional heritage.

Observer Voice is the one stop site for National, International news, Sports, Editor’s Choice, Art/culture contents, Quotes and much more. We also cover historical contents. Historical contents includes World History, Indian History, and what happened today. The website also covers Entertainment across the India and World.

Follow Us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, & LinkedIn