Independence is not merely about hoisting the national flag, singing the national anthem, or celebrating a national festival. True freedom means ensuring every citizen enjoys equal rights, dignity, justice and constitutional protection. The promise of freedom, equality, justice and freedom of expression enshrined in our Constitution becomes meaningful only when these rights are available to every citizen without discrimination.
However, today we are witnessing a disturbing situation where those who question governments, speak against injustice, express dissent, or stand up for the rights of the people are being subjected to stringent laws such as UAPA and kept in prolonged pre-trial detention. In many cases, years pass without the completion of trials, leaving individuals to remain behind bars without a final judicial determination of their guilt.
When justice is delayed, justice is denied. The constitutional principles of the presumption of innocence, the right to a fair and timely trial, and the right to live with human dignity must never be compromised.
True freedom cannot be reserved for the powerful. It must belong equally to those who question authority, those who disagree with the government, and even those facing allegations, who must be guaranteed a fair and timely trial.
On this Independence Day, we must raise our collective voice against the misuse of harsh laws, prolonged incarceration without trial, and any attempt to suppress democratic dissent. Governments must be held accountable for protecting constitutional rights, while every institution of democracy must uphold justice, fairness and human dignity.
Democracy does not survive merely through elections. It survives through the courage of citizens to question, the willingness of those in power to listen, respect for dissent, and a justice system that treats every individual equally.
Let this Independence Day be more than a celebration. Let it be a renewed commitment to protect the Constitution, defend civil liberties, oppose injustice, and build a fearless, just and equal India where freedom and dignity belong to every citizen.
The responsibility to protect India’s freedom does not rest with governments alone. It rests with every citizen who believes in democracy, constitutional values and justice. Let us collectively resolve to bring about the change needed to strengthen our democracy and preserve the true spirit of India’s independence.
Jai Hind! Jai Samvidhan!
Heartfelt Independence Day
Greetings to all our fellow citizens.
~ABDUL MAJEED,
State President, SDPI Karnataka
