The Karnataka government orchestrated an extensive event on Friday, commemorating the 'International Day of Democracy' by collectively reciting the preamble of the Constitution. Tens of lakhs of participants, hailing from India and beyond, joined the program, led by Chief Minister Siddaramaiaha and attended by Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, among other dignitaries.
The Chief Minister, along with a multitude of school students and other attendees, recited the preamble in Kannada from the grand steps of 'Vidhan Soudha.' In June, the Karnataka government mandated that all students in schools and colleges, irrespective of whether they were enrolled in government, aided, or private institutions, should read the preamble daily. Additionally, the government made it compulsory for all government and semi-government offices in the state to display a portrait of the Constitution's preamble.
Addressing the gathering, Siddaramaiah emphasized that the government had successfully fulfilled four out of five 'guarantees,' which were pre-election promises of the Congress party. He asserted that safeguarding the Constitution is the responsibility of every citizen and stressed the importance of understanding and adhering to its principles to construct an equitable society.
Siddaramaiah stated that his government had implemented various schemes aimed at the well-being of all citizens, aligning with the Constitution's vision of an egalitarian society and secular principles. He urged vigilance against anti-Constitutional forces seeking to undermine the Constitution and reinstate Manusmriti.
The Chief Minister warned that such actions could lead to the re-enslavement of 90% of Indians and noted ongoing conspiracies in this regard.
Siddaramaiah pointed out that India officially embraced the democratic system following the adoption of the Constitution, and he referenced the historical roots of democracy in India, dating back to the time of Buddha and the 12th-century social reformer Basavanna. He acknowledged the debates held in Parliament during the Constitution's promulgation as a reflection of the document's significance and the mindset of those opposing it.
Social Welfare Minister HC Mahadevappa and other ministers, as well as Chief Secretary Vandita Sharma, were also in attendance.
Mahadevappa revealed earlier that nearly 2.28 crore people from diverse backgrounds within and outside the country had registered to read the Constitution's preamble. He highlighted the overwhelming participation across various sectors and geographic locations, emphasizing the aim of promoting an understanding of democracy and the Constitution, particularly among youth.
The event prompted Bengaluru Traffic Police to issue an advisory recommending traffic diversions to ensure smooth traffic flow.
