Jaipur: Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan Wednesday said electoral victories alone do not define public life, asserting that lasting respect comes from serving people with integrity and humility. Addressing the valedictory session of the ‘Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra’ as part of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly’s 75th anniversary celebrations, he urged legislators to uphold the dignity of democratic institutions and remain committed to the Constitution.“Winning elections is important, but serving the people is more important. Elections are won through votes, but the affection and respect of the people are earned through sincere public service,” Radhakrishnan said, addressing former and sitting legislators.Calling state legislatures the “living heartbeat of Indian democracy,” the Vice-President said Parliament reflects the aspirations of the nation, while state assemblies give voice to the concerns of every village, town and family.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma with Vice President C P Radhakrishnan and Governor Haribhau Bagde during the valedictory Session of the ‘Vidhayi Gaurav Yatra: Former and Sitting Members’ Conclave’, organised as part of the celebrations marking the 75th Year of the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, at the Assembly premises, in Jaipur, Rajasthan on 15 July 2026
Emphasising the importance of healthy democratic functioning, he said differences of opinion were natural in a democracy but should never weaken commitment to constitutional values. Recalling his message to Rajya Sabha members, he added, “Debate, discussion or even disruption must ultimately lead to a decision.”Earlier, inaugurating the foundation year celebrations, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla reflected on how his early years as an MLA shaped his parliamentary journey. He said legislative debates leave a lasting imprint on democracy and that the discussions held inside the House shape democratic traditions and constitutional values for future generations. Birla urged legislators to uphold the dignity of the House through meaningful debates and constructive participation.Former CM Vasundhara Raje said “humanity is bigger than the ‘Lakshman Rekha’ of politics,” recalling how, despite criticism, she visited the Congress office after former MP Dr Abrar Ahmed’s death. She lamented the decline in legislative debates and increasing political bitterness, urging politicians to uphold dignity and civility in public life.Former finance minister Rajpal Singh Shekhawat expressed concern over Rajasthan’s fiscal health, warning that rising debt and revenue deficits could hurt long-term development. “If liabilities, including guaranteed loans, continue to rise, Rajasthan’s debt could touch Rs 10 lakh crore by the next Assembly election,” he said, urging greater fiscal discipline and legislative scrutiny of government finances.Governor Haribhau Bagde, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, Speaker Vasudev Devnani, Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Jogaram Patel were present. The Vice-President also honoured former Speakers, Deputy Speakers and former and sitting MLAs for their contribution to Rajasthan’s democratic journey.
