‘Make efforts to understand the spirit and essence of the Constitution’

The Constitution is the heart of India and all of us need to strive to protect and preserve it in its true form, the former MLC Mahantesh Kavatagimath said in Belagavi on Wednesday.

He was speaking at the Constitution Day celebrations in KLE Society’s B.V. Bellad Law College.

“It is the heart of this country and every citizen must strive to understand its spirit and essence. We should strive to preserve it,” he said.

Highlighting the role of the judiciary, he stated that whenever the executive and legislature — the other two pillars of democracy — failed to deliver, the judiciary stepped in to uphold justice using the power of law.

“We live in a well-educated but increasingly litigant society. This ensures a bright future for lawyers and law students,” he said.

He said that he is a supporter of One Nation, One Election idea, as the country cannot waste resources on repeated polls. It should instead focus on the various challenges in governance.

Senior advocate Maruti B. Jirali, who inaugurated the programme, described the Constitution as not merely a legal document but a living, breathing testament of the people’s emotions and aspirations.

He added that the Constitution is a harmonious blend of diverse cultures and languages and urged students to read the Government of India Acts of 1919 and 1935, if they wish to build a strong foundation in the legal profession.

He also pointed out that legal content and procedural learning are now easily accessible through digital and online platforms, enabling students to carve their own professional paths.

Resource person Subhash H. Patil delivered a special lecture on Electoral Reforms in India – Challenges and the Need for Change.

Retired professor Ashok S. Anikivi chaired the session.

Retired High Court judge Anil Katti, who was the chief guest, cited several important cases on the role of the judiciary in Indian electoral reforms.

“The electoral process in India has undergone significant improvements over time. The functions of judicial review play a crucial role in ensuring transparency, accountability and effective functioning of the Indian electoral system,” he said.

He said that a vigilant electorate can ensure that elections are free and fair. “No organ of the government should try to transgress on the Constitutional principles,” he said.

Advocate and chairman of the governing body of B.V. Bellad College of Law R.B. Bellad presided over the function.

To commemorate the 150th anniversary celebrations, the historic national song Vande Mataram was played.

Principal Jyoti G. Hiremath and faculty member Rajashree Patil introduced the dignitaries, while Supriya Swami proposed a vote of thanks.

Student Prerana Hanumshet anchored the event.