Hyderabad: Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan on Thursday said equal rights and dignity, along with equal opportunity, were essential to strengthen national unity. He said political integration could unite territories. However, constitutional democracy brought citizens together and created lasting bonds among them.
Radhakrishnan made the remarks as Chief Guest at the 79th Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations at Parade Grounds in Secunderabad. He stressed that national unity could not be sustained by geography alone. Therefore, the country needed to reinforce unity through equal rights, equal dignity and equal opportunity for everyone.
The Vice-President also said Bharat’s unity did not require uniformity among its citizens. Indians spoke different languages and followed diverse traditions, he said. They also practised different faiths and held varied political views.
Despite these differences, Radhakrishnan said, citizens remained bound together by the Constitution. He added that sovereignty ultimately rested with the people.
Equal rights and dignity central to national integration
Reflecting on the significance of the celebrations, Radhakrishnan described Hyderabad Liberation Day as more than a commemoration of a historic milestone. He said the occasion served as an enduring reminder of India’s nation-building journey. It also highlighted the core values that sustained Bharat, he added.
The Vice-President urged people to remember Hyderabad’s legacy as an example of the importance of inclusion. He said political integration must ultimately result in genuine inclusion.
Moreover, he said patriotism found its highest expression through dedicated service to the nation. His address linked the lessons of Hyderabad’s integration with the principles of equal rights and dignity.
Later, Radhakrishnan inspected the parade at Parade Grounds. He also witnessed the march past and cultural performances organised as part of the celebrations.
The performances depicted the struggle, valour and sacrifices of people during Hyderabad’s liberation and integration. They also paid tribute to those who contributed to the historic chapter in India’s nation-building journey.
Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla attended the programme. Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy were also present.
Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar and Malkajgiri MP Etela Rajender attended the celebrations along with other dignitaries.