Vice-President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday said that while winning elections is important, serving the people is of greater significance, urging legislators to uphold constitutional values, preserve the dignity of legislative institutions and strengthen democratic traditions through constructive dialogue.
Addressing the valedictory session of the ‘Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra: Former and Sitting Members’ Conclave’, organised as part of the 75th-year celebrations of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly in Jaipur, the Vice-President said public representatives earn lasting respect not merely through electoral victories but through sincere public service.
Paying tribute to Rajasthan’s legacy of sacrifice, courage and patriotism, he said every generation of the state has strengthened India’s democratic ethos. He noted that democracy flourishes when deliberations are conducted with dignity and national interest is placed above all other considerations.
Highlighting the importance of healthy democratic functioning, V-P Radhakrishnan said differences of opinion are natural in a democracy, but commitment to the people and the Constitution must remain unwavering.
“We may agree to disagree, but we should all agree on one thing—our unwavering commitment to the people and the Constitution,” he said.
Recalling his message to members in the Rajya Sabha, he added that “debate, discussion or even sometimes disruption must lead to a decision.”
The Vice-President said the strength of Indian democracy lies not only in its constitutional institutions but also in the quality of debates, dignity of conduct and adherence to constitutional values. He urged legislators to uphold these principles in both letter and spirit.
Sharing an experience from his tenure as a Lok Sabha member, V-P Radhakrishnan recalled that recommendations made by the Parliamentary Sub-Committee on Textiles, which he had convened, eventually led to the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme. He encouraged legislators to actively participate in debates and committee work, saying that even a single constructive suggestion could lead to major policy reforms.
Quoting a verse from the ‘Thirukkural’, he said leaders who remain accessible and courteous earn the enduring trust of the people. Listening to citizens with empathy and treating them with dignity, he added, is as important as formulating effective policies.
Describing state legislatures as the “living heartbeat of Indian democracy”, the Vice-President said that while Parliament reflects the aspirations of the nation, state legislatures give voice to the hopes and concerns of every village, town and family.
He stressed that every elected representative carries a profound responsibility, noting that every vote reflects a citizen’s faith in democracy—a trust that must be honoured daily through integrity, humility and dedication to public service.
Recalling his long association with Rajasthan’s political leadership, the V-P said he had worked with former Chief Ministers Bhairon Singh Shekhawat and Vasundhara Raje, while also acknowledging the contribution of former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot to the state’s democratic journey. He also remembered his association with late Rajesh Pilot during his tenure in the Lok Sabha.
Invoking Rajasthan’s history, the Vice-President said history remembers not only Maharana Pratap but also his loyal horse Chetak, underscoring that every sincere contribution leaves a lasting legacy. Referring to the ‘Bhagavad Gita’, he urged legislators to perform their duties selflessly without seeking rewards, saying honest public service is always recognised in due course.
Calling upon legislators to preserve the dignity of legislative institutions and promote constructive dialogue V-P, Radhakrishnan said integrity, humility and dedication are essential to realise the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’, adding that a developed Rajasthan is integral to achieving a developed India.
During the event, the Vice-President honoured former Speakers, former Deputy Speakers, and former and sitting members of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly for their contribution to the state’s democratic and legislative tradition.
The programme was attended by Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Rajasthan Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani, Parliamentary Affairs, Law and Justice Minister Jogaram Patel, Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully, and former and sitting members of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.
