India’s Thriving Democracy After 75 Years: Prof. Ulhas Bapat Highlights the Role of the Constitution
Pune, 28th November 2024: Prof. Ulhas Bapat, a renowned academician, and senior Constitutional Law expert, emphasized India’s remarkable achievement as the only thriving democracy among nations that gained independence after World War II. Speaking at the 75th Constitution Day celebration organized by Suryadatta Law College, Bavdhan, Pune, he attributed this success to India’s Constitution, its framers, the judiciary, the Election Commission, Indian media, and, most importantly, the people of India. He noted that while other democracies collapsed within five years of independence, Indian democracy has flourished for 75 years.
Prof. Bapat addressed the students during the event, which was organized under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Sanjay B. Chordiya, Founder President, and Chairman of Suryadatta Education Foundation. The program was held at the Bansi Ratna Auditorium on the Bavdhan campus of the Suryadatta Group of Institutes, emphasizing the importance of the Constitution and its role in sustaining democracy.
The event featured an interactive session by Mr. Umesh Jawalikar, a former District Judge of the District Consumer Commission. He highlighted the practical application of law in everyday life and encouraged students to embrace their journey from laymen to law professionals, which he said would enhance their understanding of democracy and justice.
The program continued with an insightful talk by Prof. Bapat on “75 Years of the Indian Constitution.” He discussed the types of democracies, key aspects of democratic governance, and the significant contributions of the Constitution’s framers in shaping modern India.
As part of the celebration, all attendees, including students, faculty members, and guest speakers, pledged to uphold the fundamental duties enshrined in the Constitution. On this occasion, the dignitaries inaugurated the Constitution Club at Suryadatta Law College. Additionally, winners of the Panel Discussion and Elocution Competition were felicitated.
The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Mrs. Snehal Navalakha, Associate Vice-President of Suryadatta Education Foundation; Mrs. Ketaki Bapat, Principal of Suryadatta Law College; Mr. Arif Shaikh, Principal of Suryadatta International Institute of Cyber and Digital Science; Dr. Anand Gaikwad, and other teaching and non-teaching staff, along with students from various Suryadatta institutes.
The opening address was delivered by Vijaydeep Munjankar, Assistant Professor of Political Science, followed by a welcome speech by Mrs. Ketaki Bapat. First-year B.A. LL.B. student Krushna Dhaygude served as the event’s compère, while Mr. Nilesh Sarwade, Assistant Professor of Sociology, proposed the vote of thanks. Students Vidula Jambhekar, Samira Nadaf, Santoshi Jadhav, Nipun Mishra, Anuj Abbad, Yash Ransingh, and Rugved Adhawade contributed significantly to the event’s planning and execution.
In his concluding remarks, Prof. Dr. Sanjay B. Chordiya highlighted the Suryadatta Education Foundation’s commitment to fostering socio-political awareness. He urged students to utilize every moment of their lives for personal growth and to strive to contribute toward making India a global superpower.
