RV University organises distinguished public lecture on ‘India@75: Reflections on Indian Democracy’
Bengaluru : In the context of current debate surrounding promises of freebies by political parties to secure power, eminent political scientist, Prof. G. Haragopal asserted that, “Welfarism in an unequal society is an absolute necessity.”
He was speaking at a lecture organized by the Centre for Human Rights Studies and Centre for Election Studies and Democracy in India at RV University, Bengaluru. The purpose of the lecture is to reflect on the challenges faced by the Indian democracy even as the country celebrated 75 years of independence.
Professor Haragopal emphasised the need for the State to reduce inequalities in income, status, opportunity and facilities as per Article 38 of the Indian Constitution. In addition, he stressed that means of production should not be monopolised and that wealth should not result in the detriment of common good, as required by the Directive Principles of State Policy. He expressed concern that India today, is perhaps drifting far from the India that the freedom fighters envisioned it to be at the time of Independence, and when they drafted the constitution.
Prof. Haragopal underlined the need to look back at the vision that the drafters of the Constitution had for free India. The policies need to be inclusive and mindful of the needs of people from all sections of society and they should reflect the diversity that India is known for. The State must work towards the welfare of all its citizens, regardless of their background or affiliations. Efforts must be made to socially and economically empower the marginalised sections of the society, he added.
Prof. G. Haragopal further said, “The Indian Constitution was structured around liberal values coupled with an egalitarian vision. Our constitution reflects both the fundamental rights and directive principles. The purpose of the directive principles is to serve as direction and touchstones for the future leaders. In the last 75 years, we have seen immense growth and development in terms of infrastructure, industry, and economy. However, the need remains to keep improving and working towards the betterment and upliftment of the weaker sections.”
During his opening remarks, Prof. Y.S.R. Murthy, Vice Chancellor, RV University welcomed Prof. Haragopal and recalled his rich contribution to the protection and promotion of human rights.
Prof. G. Haragopal is a distinguished political scientist and renowned human rights activist. He is a Visiting Professor, National Law School of India University (NLSIU), Bangalore. Earlier on, he was the UGC National Professor and also worked in the University of Hyderabad.
In line with its vision to provide a strong platform and encourage public participation on important issues affecting the country and the world, Bangalore-based RV University hosted a lecture on ‘India@75: Reflections on Indian Democracy’ in its campus. The lecture was attended by students, professors and non-teaching staff.