“A strong democracy is not one where everyone agrees with the government. A strong democracy is one where every citizen has the freedom to question the government. You are responsible. You are accountable. You all have the rights that our Constitution has given you. You have the power to rectify,” Shivakumar said.
Highlighting the challenges facing democratic systems and institutions, the Karnataka Chief Minister said democracies were being tested and institutions were under considerable pressure. He stressed the need for young people who could question authority, engage in debate, challenge ideas and offer solutions.
“Never be afraid of asking questions, but also be prepared to take responsibility for finding the answer,” he added, urging young people to combine critical thinking with a sense of responsibility.
Shivakumar also called upon legal professionals to uphold constitutional morality and ensure that justice remains central to their work. He said India needed lawyers who demonstrated integrity, compassion and courage rather than merely possessing legal knowledge.
“India does not simply need more lawyers. We need lawyers with integrity, compassion, and courage. Knowing the law makes you a professional, understanding justice makes you a leader,” he said.
Emphasising the responsibility of legal professionals and policymakers, Shivakumar described them as guardians of the Constitution, highlighting their role in protecting constitutional principles and democratic values.
“As lawyers and policymakers, you have a special burden. You are the guardians of the Constitution. The Constitution is your Bible, Bhagavad Gita, or Quran—whatever you call it, it is the Constitution,” he said.
Through his address at the NLSIU convocation, Shivakumar placed citizen participation, government accountability and constitutional responsibility at the centre of his message, underscoring the importance of questioning authority and upholding justice in a functioning democracy.
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