Vice-President Urges Jan Andolan to Safeguard Democracy and Economic Nationalism
In an impassioned address at the centenary celebration of Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, the Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, called upon citizens to initiate a Jan Andolan (people’s movement) to ensure that elected representatives fulfill their constitutional duties diligently. He expressed concern over the erosion of the “Temples of Democracy,” cautioning that if these spaces for dialogue and debate are not protected, they might be infiltrated by unaccountable forces.
Drawing inspiration from the Constituent Assembly, the Vice-President emphasized the importance of constructive dissent and discussion rather than resorting to disruptive protests. He urged citizens to embrace the spirit of coordination, cooperation, and collaboration, which played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s foundational principles.
On the matter of economic nationalism, the Vice-President emphasized that fiscal considerations should not compromise the core values of the nation. He encouraged citizens to be mindful of optimal resource utilization and stressed that financial capacity should not grant anyone the right to recklessly exploit natural resources.
The Vice-President also stressed the need to safeguard India’s reputation on the global stage and discouraged attempts to tarnish or demean constitutional institutions. He urged citizens to counter anti-India narratives and work in the best interests of the nation.
Addressing the students, the Vice-President highlighted the importance of embracing diverse viewpoints and keeping an open mind. He encouraged them to be critical thinkers, avid learners, and pioneers in their chosen fields.
The event was graced by the presence of dignitaries, including the Governor of Maharashtra, Shri Ramesh Bais, Union Minister for Highways and Road Transport, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, and the Vice-Chancellor of Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Dr. Subhash Chaudhari.
