In an emotionally stirring address at the inauguration of ‘Kartavyam’, a new initiative launched at Delhi University, the Vice President of India spoke passionately to a hall packed with students, educators, and dignitaries. The event was more than ceremonial—it became a reflection on India’s democratic values, constitutional journey, and the responsibility of its citizens, especially the youth, to carry forward the nation’s legacy with pride, discernment, and dedication.
Recalling his own experiences as a former Governor of West Bengal and Union Minister, the Vice President invoked the powerful symbolism of standing where history had unfolded—whether in colonial Calcutta or the Rashtrapati Bhavan. He reminded the students that occupying positions of influence, particularly in a democracy, comes with a heavy weight of duty and conscience.
The Vice President paid tribute to Justice H.R. Khanna, a distinguished alumnus of Delhi University, whose lone voice of dissent during the Emergency became a global symbol of judicial integrity. Citing an editorial from the New York Times, he echoed that India’s path back to democracy was indebted to individuals like Justice Khanna. Through such references, he urged students not to forget the country’s difficult past, especially the 1975 Emergency, when civil liberties were suspended and democratic institutions suppressed.
Addressing students with warmth and familiarity—referring even to those on the “last bench” as significant contributors—he encouraged them to think critically and never accept icons or narratives blindly. “In India, we often iconize without scrutiny,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of discernment in an age of media manipulation and event-driven narratives.
The inauguration of Kartavyam, a Sanskrit term meaning duty, was celebrated as symbolic and transformative. The Vice President lauded the Campus Law Centre, calling it an “iconic crucible of change,” and emphasised that ideation and academic debate must be rooted in constitutional morality, truth, and civilisational wisdom.
He took the audience on a journey through the Indian Constitution—its roots in democratic thought, the introduction of Fundamental Duties through the 42nd and 86th Amendments, and the sanctity of the Preamble, which begins with “We the People of India.” He firmly declared that sovereignty lies with the citizens, and that elected representatives are but stewards of that collective will.
“The soul of democracy lies in its citizens,” he said, making it clear that the active performance of civic duties is not optional but essential to national strength. He spoke of nationalism not as a slogan but a lived value, where every individual prioritises the country above personal or partisan gains.
Quoting the Upanishads and drawing from Vedic philosophy, the Vice President argued that India’s democracy is unique—not because of its scale but because of its moral and ethical foundation. He spoke with conviction about how democracy thrives on dialogue and expression—not arrogance or suppression—and warned against the ego that refuses to engage with opposing views.
In a world increasingly shaped by technology, he encouraged students to wield their power to shape discourse, challenge misinformation, and uphold the quality of democratic debate. “Discourse defines democracy,” he said, urging youth to rise above partisanship and commit to thoughtful engagement in the nation’s growth.
Reflecting on Bharat’s civilisational strength, he reminded students of India’s ancient values—Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family), sustainability, public participation, and moral discipline. National development, he said, hinges on five pillars: social harmony, inclusivity, family-rooted patriotism, economic nationalism, and civic responsibility.
He concluded by drawing a powerful cultural analogy, explaining how traditional practices like kanyadaan reflected a collective spirit, a shared sense of duty and belonging. “National growth,” he said, “comes not from compulsion but from voluntary discipline, from every citizen becoming a guardian of public order and national spirit.”
With humility, emotion, and a deep connection to India’s constitutional and cultural fabric, the Vice President left the audience not just informed, but inspired. The message was clear: democracy is a shared responsibility, and the youth are its most powerful custodians.
