Vice-President Emphasizes Citizen Supremacy and Participatory Democracy at ‘Kartavyam’ Event in Delhi University

In a stirring address marking 75 years of the Indian Constitution at the ‘Kartavyam’ event held at the University of Delhi, the Hon’ble Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, underscored the primacy of citizens in a democracy, asserting that constitutional offices are far from being ceremonial and that the true soul of democracy resides in every citizen.

Delivering the keynote speech as Chief Guest and ex-officio Chancellor of the University, the Vice-President remarked, “Every citizen has a pivotal role. A democracy is not built by governments alone, but by alert, contributing individuals. A citizen is not ornamental—they are supreme in a democracy.”

He firmly stated that there is no authority above the Parliament in the constitutional framework, stressing, “Parliament is supreme, and each individual is part of ‘We the People.’ Like atoms in democracy, they carry atomic power—reflected most vividly during elections.”

Shri Dhankhar emphasized the foundational essence of the Constitution, particularly as captured in its Preamble. “The supreme power lies with the people of India. Through elections, they hold their representatives severely accountable. The Constitution belongs to the people and is safeguarded by elected representatives.”

On the theme of participatory democracy, the Vice-President highlighted that democracy thrives when individuals take initiative. “It is not just about laws or governance. It is about ethos, heritage, and action. Governments can provide stadiums, but it is the individual who must score the goals.”

In a candid reflection on the quality of democratic discourse, he raised thought-provoking questions. “Is our discourse controlled by moneybags, muscle power, or foreign interests? Is it manipulated or moderated? Citizens must discern. The health of democracy lies in the health of discourse.”

Touching upon the crucial importance of free expression and respectful dialogue, Shri Dhankhar said, “Abhivyakti aur samvaad—expression and dialogue—are the core mantras of democracy. Suppressing expression harms democracy, but so does arrogance in expression. True expression invites challenge and honors alternative perspectives. This is the essence of our civilizational heritage, rooted in ‘Anantavad’ and ‘vaad-vivaad’—infinite perspectives and ego-free debate.”

He warned against the dangers of silence in critical moments, saying, “If you hesitate to speak the right thing at the right time to the right audience, you weaken yourself and wound the positive forces of society.”

Concluding his address with a call to the youth, Shri Dhankhar urged students to rise above partisan interests and prioritize national interest. “Our youth must lead the charge in thoughtful deliberation. At this historic moment of Bharat’s unstoppable rise, you must become architects of our democratic destiny.”

The event was attended by Shri Yogesh Singh, Vice-Chancellor, University of Delhi; Prof. Balaram Pani, Dean of Colleges; Shri Prakash Singh, Director, South Delhi Campus; and other distinguished dignitaries.

The ‘Kartavyam’ celebration served not only as a tribute to the Constitution but also as a powerful reminder of the responsibilities and potential every citizen holds in shaping India’s democratic future.