Mysuru: Highlighting the importance of the people in a democratic setup, MLC K Shivakumar asserted that every citizen above 18 years of age holds the right to vote.After inaugurating the International Democracy Day celeb…

Mysuru: Highlighting the importance of the people in a democratic setup, MLC K Shivakumar asserted that every citizen above 18 years of age holds the right to vote.After inaugurating the International Democracy Day celebrations at Kalamandira in Mysuru, on Tuesday, he emphasised on public participation and the electoral selection of representatives as the core strength of democracy.“India is the world’s largest democracy. The sacrifices and efforts of leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, Dr B R Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel laid a solid foundation for our democratic values,” Shivakumar remarked.He urged the citizens — especially the youth — to understand both their rights and duties under the Constitution and conduct themselves responsibly.Addressing the gathering, District Bar Association president Lokesh noted that while the Constitution guarantees freedom of speech, thought, and expression, these freedoms must be exercised with accountability.Low-key housewarming ceremony of former CM Siddaramaiah in Mysuru“Freedom on social media should never be misused to defame individuals or national icons. The beauty of democracy lies in the phrase ‘people are the masters,’ as citizens hold the power to elect representatives and replace them in subsequent elections, if they fail to perform,” he said.Former Mayor Purushotham observed that prior to the adoption of the Constitution, equal access to education, employment, and voting rights was non-existent.Mysuru City Corporation Commissioner M K Savitha, Additional Deputy Commissioner R Aishwarya, DDPI Uday Kumar, Soial Welfare Joint Director Rangegowda, and leader Javarappa were present.

Source: Deccan Herald