Democracy is under threat and must be preserved, asserted eminent Gandhian leader Ramchandra Rahi, emphasising that mere expressions of anger are insufficient. Citizens must step forward to safeguard the nation’s future, he said, calling for resolute voices across all levels of society to ensure success in protecting democracy and securing a better tomorrow.
Speaking at the memorial lecture organised on the occasion of the 93rd birth anniversary of Pradyumna Bal, the Founder Editor of ‘Pragativadi’ and a value-based politician, Rahi, who serves as the Chairman of the Central Gandhi Smarak Nidhi, highlighted the enduring relevance of Bal’s ideals and thoughts in today’s context. “The principles and visions that Pradyumna Bal advanced have become even more pertinent now,” Rahi stated. “We must fight to protect the nation’s security, defend democracy, and uphold the rights of ordinary people.”
Rahi expressed concern over the current state of democracy, noting that what was once vote-stealing has escalated to outright election robbery. He criticised politicians for turning people into beggars in their quest for power, which he said is dismantling the democratic system. “The bureaucracy has expanded its influence over the masses, controlling the people instead. This is not a positive sign for India’s future,” he warned.
Reflecting on the discussions held during the two-day celebrations at Pragativadi, Rahi pointed out that leaders and eminent personalities from various walks of life are expressing their anger about the country’s situation. However, he stressed that anger alone won’t suffice. “We need to raise awareness among people and spread this message to every village,” he urged.
Recalling his memories with Jayaprakash Narayan, Rahi said Narayan used to visit villages, including tribal areas, sitting with people to explain the concept of Gram Swaraj (village self-governance). “That time has come again. We must educate people about protecting democracy. Conscious citizens need to come forward—only then can we ensure its safety,” he added.
Rahi also underscored the crucial role of the media in this fight, lamenting that India’s media is increasingly falling under the control of the ruling system. “People’s voices and issues related to their rights are disappearing from coverage. The media’s duty is to uncover the truth, but it’s not fulfilling that. The media must perform its true role and become fearless, just as Pradyumna Bal established ‘Pragativadi’ to do,” he said.
As the chief guest, renowned linguist Padma Shri Debi Prasanna Pattnaik emphasised the need for everyone’s cooperation in the development of society and the nation. Former Chief Minister Dr Giridhar Gamang, speaking as a distinguished guest, shared his friendship with Pradyumna Bal and reflected on Bal’s thoughts and ideals.
The memorial lecture was presided over by Justice Manoranjan Mohanty, Chairman of the Pradyumna Bal Jayanti Reception Committee.
Pradyumna Bal Memorial Trust trustee Dr Achyuta Samanta delivered a speech, stating that he has never deviated from Bal’s ideals and that KIIT-KISS has become a globally recognised institution. He pledged to continue advancing Bal’s principles in the future.
At the outset, ‘Pragativadi’ Director Dr Monalisa Bal delivered the welcome address and introduced the guests, while Executive Editor Birupakshya Tripathy coordinated the program. In conclusion, ‘Pragativadi’ Chairperson Saswati Bal offered a vote of thanks.
