Haryana CM Saini Says India’s Progress Depends on Every Citizen’s Contribution to Nation-Building

CHANDIGARH, Oct 25: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday called upon citizens to recognise their duties alongside their constitutional rights, stating that a strong democracy depends on people fulfilling their responsibilities towards the country and society.

Addressing the 33rd Annual Lecture-cum-Lokmanthan programme organised by the Panchnad Shodh Sansthan in Chandigarh, Saini spoke on the theme, “Hum Bharat Ke Log, Hamara Dayitva”.

He observed that public discussions often focus on citizens’ rights, while their obligations and responsibilities receive comparatively less attention. He said greater awareness of both aspects was necessary to strengthen democratic institutions and promote national development.

Saini expressed confidence that India’s progress would remain unstoppable if every citizen contributed meaningfully to nation-building. He added that the ideas shared by speakers during the programme could inspire future generations to fulfil their responsibilities towards the nation.

Referring to the Preamble of the Constitution, which begins with the words “We, the People of India”, the chief minister said these words underline the central role of citizens in the country’s democratic framework.

He noted that the Constitution guarantees individual freedoms, dignity and rights while also expecting people to act responsibly towards the nation, society and fellow citizens.

“Rights empower us, while duties give that power the right direction. Democracy becomes strong only when rights and duties go hand in hand,” he said.

The chief minister highlighted Article 51A of the Constitution, which outlines the fundamental duties of Indian citizens. These include respecting the Constitution and its ideals, preserving the values of the freedom struggle, protecting the country’s unity and integrity, promoting harmony, respecting the dignity of women, and safeguarding the nation’s cultural heritage and natural environment.

According to Saini, adherence to these principles is essential for building a responsible society and ensuring sustained national progress.

He described respect for the Constitution and democratic institutions as one of the foremost responsibilities of citizens. India’s democratic system accommodates a wide range of opinions, languages, cultural traditions and communities, making mutual respect particularly important.

The chief minister said differences of opinion were natural in a democracy but should be addressed through constructive dialogue, dignity and respect for the law.

“Our views may differ, but our resolve in the national interest must remain united,” he said, emphasising the need to preserve national unity despite political and social differences.

Saini also stressed the importance of strengthening brotherhood and mutual respect among people from different backgrounds. He said no individual should be considered superior or inferior because of their caste, religion, language, region or economic circumstances.

Describing diversity as one of India’s defining strengths, he urged citizens to look beyond social divisions and recognise one another as fellow Indians.

He said a stronger sense of shared national identity would help create a more united society and enable the country to harness the collective potential of its people.

The chief minister’s address centred on the idea that constitutional awareness must extend beyond knowing one’s rights to actively practising civic responsibility. He called for greater commitment to democratic values, social harmony and the common good, saying that individual contributions play an important role in shaping the country’s future.