Sarbananda Sonowal Urges Citizens to Protect Democratic Institutions and Ensure Electoral Transparency

Sarbananda Sonowal Calls for Collective Responsibility to Protect Democracy

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has called upon citizens to actively protect India's democratic institutions and uphold the credibility of the country's constitutional framework.

Speaking at a 'Prabuddha Nagarik Sabha' (Enlightened Citizens' Assembly) at Manab Kalyan Puja Bhawan in Tinsukia, Assam, Sonowal stressed that protecting democracy was not the responsibility of political parties alone. Every citizen, he said, had an important role in preserving democratic values and public confidence in constitutional institutions.

The meeting was organised by members of civil society from Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts.

'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy' Awareness Campaign

Sonowal referred to the public awareness campaign being conducted under the slogan 'Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy'.

He said the campaign aimed to strengthen awareness of democratic values, protect constitutional institutions and encourage citizens to distinguish facts from misinformation.

According to the minister, the campaign had received a positive response from people in different parts of Assam.

He alleged that the Congress and certain opposition parties were attempting to mislead citizens through misinformation and propaganda. Sonowal argued that informed citizens should help place accurate information before the public and preserve confidence in democratic institutions.

These comments reflect the minister's political position and allegations against the opposition.

Sonowal Addresses Debate Over EVMs and Ballot Papers

The Union minister also addressed the ongoing political debate over electronic voting machines (EVMs) and ballot papers.

He said the BJP had received electoral support under both voting systems and referred to the party's performance in recent municipal elections.

Sonowal claimed that the BJP had secured more than 90% of seats in several areas and up to 96% in some cases in elections conducted using ballot papers.

He also referred to local-level elections and the party's electoral performance in Tripura, arguing that election results should be assessed through the people's mandate.

Responding to questions raised by Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders about electoral credibility, Sonowal said discussions about transparency should be based on facts.

Importance of Informed Citizens and Electoral Transparency

Sonowal emphasised that a strong democracy depends on informed citizens, credible institutions and the active participation of people from every section of society.

He urged citizens to rise above political differences and contribute to protecting democratic values.

The minister also highlighted the importance of safeguarding voting rights and ensuring that electoral processes remain transparent.

The debate over EVMs, ballot papers and the credibility of electoral institutions has remained a significant political issue, with opposition parties raising questions about transparency and the government defending the existing electoral framework.

Sonowal Highlights Modi's Vision of Viksit Bharat 2047

During the meeting, Sonowal also spoke about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of transforming India into a developed, self-reliant and globally influential nation by 2047.

He said achieving this objective would require collective responsibility, national unity and active public participation.

According to Sonowal, citizens from all sections of society must contribute to the country's development through cooperation and commitment.

He connected the protection of democratic institutions with the broader objective of building a stronger and more prosperous India.

Sonowal Reflects on His Public Life

The Union minister also spoke about his journey in public service.

He said he entered public life through the student movement before becoming involved in regional politics. Sonowal expressed gratitude to the people for giving him the opportunity to serve as an elected representative.

He highlighted the importance of public participation and responsible leadership in strengthening democratic governance.

Why Sonowal's Appeal Matters

Sonowal's remarks come amid continuing political disagreements over electoral transparency, the role of constitutional institutions and the use of EVMs in India.

His appeal places emphasis on citizen awareness and collective responsibility, while his criticism of opposition parties reflects the political disagreement surrounding these issues.

The broader discussion highlights the importance of transparent electoral procedures, reliable information and public confidence in democratic institutions.