Honours the senior-most former MLAs, Sh Ganpat Rai and Sh O.P. Bhardwaj
The Constitution is not merely a legal document, but a living covenant between the people of India and the State: Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh
Governor addresses the valedictory session of the ‘Janpratinidhi Sammelan’ as the Chief Guest
Public representatives play a vital role in upholding constitutional values and strengthening democratic traditions: Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh
Chandigarh November 2:
Haryana Governor Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh said that the constitution of India is not merely a legal document but a living covenant between the people of India and the State, founded on the principles of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
The Governor was addressing the valedictory session of the Janpratinidhi Sammelan at Indradhanush Auditorium, Sector-5, Panchkula, today.
On this occasion, the Governor personally visited the seats of the two senior-most former MLAs, Sh Ganpat Rai and Sh O.P. Bhardwaj, and honoured them. Sh Ganpat Rai was born in June 1935, while Sh O.P. Bhardwaj was born in July 1935.
Describing legislators as the most visible custodians of the constitutional covenant, Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh said that by taking an oath, elected representatives pledge to uphold the Constitution, while through debates, questions and legislation, they translate this commitment into practice. He observed that the strength of parliamentary democracy depends on the quality of dialogue in legislative institutions, the expression of disagreement with dignity and the ability to take decisions guided by the larger public interest.
The Governor expressed satisfaction that the conference brought together serving and former Members of the Haryana Legislative Assembly. He said that former legislators bring valuable institutional memory and the wisdom of experience, while serving members contribute the energy and commitment of present responsibilities. Such meaningful interactions strengthen democratic traditions and help pass on the finest parliamentary practices to the next generation.
Emphasizing the need to take constitutional awareness beyond legislative institutions, the Governor said that citizens must be aware not only of their rights but also of their duties. A democracy, he said, is only as strong as the understanding and commitment of the people who sustain it.
He urged public representatives to carry the message of the conference to their respective constituencies and actively engage with citizens, particularly the youth. He called upon them to speak about the Constitution in schools and colleges, encourage greater public participation in democratic processes and promote awareness of constitutional duties alongside fundamental rights.
Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh also congratulated the Haryana Legislative Assembly and its Speaker for the impeccable organisation of the conference. He expressed his gratitude to all the Members, officers and staff whose dedicated efforts contributed to making the event a resounding success.
The Speaker of the Haryana Legislative Assembly, Sh Harvinder Kalyan; Deputy Speaker, Dr. Krishna Middha; Leader of the Opposition, Sh Bhupinder Singh Hooda; former Speakers, Sh Gian Chand Gupta and Sh Kuldeep Sharma; and INLD MLA, Sh Arjun Chautala, shared the dais during the concluding session. Several other sitting and former MLAs, Ministers, and former Ministers were also present.