Bengaluru: The International Day of Democracy was observed in Bengaluru on Monday, with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urging citizens to commit themselves to protecting the constitution. He stressed that safeguarding democracy and constitutional values is vital for the nation’s security and progress.
The celebration, held at the Vidhana Soudha’s Banquet Hall, was launched with the slogan “My Vote, My Right.” Siddaramaiah also paid floral tributes to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Dr. Babu Jagjivan Ram.
“Democracy thrives where dissent is heard. Safeguarding the constitution is the responsibility of every citizen. If the constitution survives, so will our rights,” the Chief Minister said, cautioning against attempts by vested interests to undermine democratic institutions.
He noted that schools and colleges across Karnataka have been directed to read the Preamble of the Constitution to instill awareness of constitutional values from an early age. “Once people understand the constitution, no one can exploit or weaken them,” he added.
Siddaramaiah also warned against electoral malpractices, stressing that voter fraud must not be allowed. “Protecting the constitution and exercising our rights vigilantly are critical to ensuring the strength of our democracy,” he said. He emphasised that democracy transcends caste, religion, and gender, and called for equality, tolerance, and resistance to divisive forces.
Highlighting welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister said nearly ₹98,000 crore has been spent under various guarantee schemes aimed at reducing inequality. On the occasion, he inaugurated competitions on democracy and voting awareness, distributed subsidies to unemployed Scheduled Caste postgraduates to set up digital and electronic enterprises, and announced incentives for meritorious students joining premier professional institutions.
Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, launching the International Democracy Network 2025, underscored the need to inculcate leadership qualities among youth. “We live in a democracy built on the principles of equality and fairness. The younger generation must understand the value of their vote. Leadership skills must be nurtured from the student stage,” he said.
Social Welfare Minister Dr. H.C. Mahadevappa recalled Karnataka’s unique initiatives to mark the day, including the mass Preamble-reading in 2023 with 2.31 crore participants across 507 districts worldwide—an event recognised by the London World Book of Records—and the 2,500-km human chain formed across the state in 2024.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister K.H. Muniyappa said Karnataka was the first state in India to begin celebrating the International Day of Democracy, calling it a matter of pride. “The spirit of democracy must reach the last person in society. We must uphold equality as envisioned by Basavanna and remember the sacrifices of Mahatma Gandhi and countless freedom fighters,” he remarked.
The event also featured the inauguration of “Democracy Radio” by BDA Chairman N.A. Harris. Senior officials, legislators, and dignitaries, including CM’s Political Secretary Naseer Ahmed and heads of various welfare corporations, were present.