The 79th Independence Day was commemorated with solemn pride and national fervour at the Lokpal of India, where the National Flag was hoisted by Hon’ble Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar, Chairperson of Lokpal, in the distinguished presence of Hon’ble Members — Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Justice Sanjay Yadav, Sushil Chandra, Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Pankaj Kumar, and Ajay Tirkey.
In his address, Justice Khanwilkar extended heartfelt Independence Day greetings to all members, officers, staff, and their families. He reflected on the immense sacrifices and visionary leadership that led to India’s independence, reminding the gathering that the freedom we celebrate today was won not just by iconic leaders, but also by countless unsung heroes — farmers, labourers, homemakers, students, and tribal communities — whose grassroots resistance played a vital role in dismantling colonial rule.
Paying tribute to stalwarts like Mahatma Gandhi, Shaheed Bhagat Singh, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Lala Lajpat Rai, Lokmanya Tilak, Bipin Chandra Pal, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, he called for a collective remembrance of their courage and sacrifice. He emphasized the importance of honouring their legacy by upholding the values they fought for.
Justice Khanwilkar also lauded the unyielding spirit of India’s citizens — from soldiers defending the nation’s borders to frontline workers battling natural disasters and pandemics. Their resilience, he said, showcases the enduring strength of Bharat.
Highlighting the contributions of nation builders — including scientists, teachers, doctors, engineers, artists, and professionals — he acknowledged their role in shaping a modern, progressive India. Their efforts, he said, have laid the foundations for the country’s continuing growth.
In closing, he urged everyone to take a collective pledge to combat not just external threats, but also internal challenges like corruption, terrorism, misinformation, nepotism, and regionalism — all of which erode national unity and democratic ideals. Justice Khanwilkar stressed that only through daily, committed individual and collective action can we truly contribute to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
