Political integration unites territories, constitutional democracy unites citizens: Vice-President
Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan emphasized that national unity requires more than just territorial integration, calling for equal rights and dignity for all citizens. He spoke at Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations, reflecting on India's history and the ongoing goal of a developed nation.
Why it matters
The speech highlights the intersection of historical national integration and contemporary political goals for social equality in India.
National integration must go beyond the geographical unification of territories and translate into equal rights, dignity and opportunities for citizens, said Vice-President C.P. Radhakrishnan .
Addressing the Hyderabad Liberation Day celebrations organised by the Union Ministry of Culture at Secunderabad Parade Ground in Hyderabad on Thursday (September 17, 2026), Mr. Radhakrishnan, who was the chief guest, said September 17, 1948, marked the culmination of a decisive chapter in the history of independent India with the integration of the erstwhile Hyderabad State into the Indian Union following Operation Polo.
“Political integration can bring territories together; constitutional democracy brings citizens together,” he said, stressing that national unity could not be sustained by geography alone and had to be reinforced through equal rights, equal dignity and equal opportunity.
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