I wish all Indians a very happy republic day. It was on this day in 1950 that our constitution came into effect and free India has transformed to Republic of India. Our constitution enforced 61 years ago is still able to safeguard the largest democracy in the world. It is this constitution that brought diversified provinces in independent India under one parliamentary system. My sincere thanks to Dr. Rajendra Prasad and his team in the constituent assembly for giving us this wonderful constitution.

The year 2011 was a litmus test to this powerful constitution. An old honest man launched an anti-corruption agitation and demanded for a strong lokpal bill. People actively participated in this peaceful protest and sent a strong message to the parliament that the people of India need a strong anti-corruption legislation. By doing so, we have demonstrated that the true power in a democratic country lies in the people. The parliament had to acknowledge the voice of the people and introduce the bill for debate in Loksabha and Rajya Sabha. Though the anti-corruption mission was initiated by the people, it is the parliament that makes the legislation. To people like me, it seemed at some point that parliament would crush the agitation or Anna Hazare force would bypass the parliament in making legislation. The people of India and parliament had complete faith in the constitution and availed a democratic process in enforcing a lokpal bill. It is a true victory for Indian democracy. The constitution has prevailed. Through this exercise, India has proved to the world that it is the brand ambassador for democratic governance. I am proud to be a citizen of this fabulous country.

Happy republic day.