The Department of Social Work, Don Bosco College, KR Puram, Bengaluru, in collaboration with other departments, organised a seminar on “The Relevance of the Indian Constitution in Contemporary Society” to mark the 80th Year of India’s Independence and the 75th Year of the Indian Constitution. The programme aimed to deepen students’ understanding of constitutional values while encouraging responsible citizenship, democratic participation, human rights and social justice. The inaugural session was presided over by Rev. Fr. Dr. Geo Kalladanthiyil, Principal, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Dr. George P.S., Director, BISS, and Mr. Vinod Kumar, Vice Principal. Mr. Harikrishnan, Advocate, Alternative Law Forum, Bengaluru, served as the resource person.
The seminar encouraged students to reflect on whether freedom, dignity and equality are equally experienced by all sections of society. Issues including gender inequality, caste discrimination, untouchability, child labour, corruption and human rights violations were discussed in the context of constitutional freedoms and responsibilities. Through an interactive approach, Mr. Harikrishnan explored the making of the Constitution, constitutional rights and the significance of citizens’ freedoms, while engaging students through thought-provoking questions and discussions.
Drawing from professional experiences and real-life examples involving social exclusion and human rights concerns, the resource person demonstrated how the Constitution can serve as an instrument of social justice and transformation. The programme concluded by reminding students that the strength of a democracy lies not merely in its institutions, but in citizens who understand, exercise and uphold constitutional values. The seminar thus inspired students to view the Constitution not simply as a legal document, but as a living framework for equality, dignity, justice and meaningful democratic participation.
