On the occasion of the 80^th Independence Day of India, the National flag was hoisted by Hon’ble Shri Justice Ajay Manikrao Khanwilkar, Chairperson, Lokpal of India in the august presence of Hon’ble Members: Shri Justice Lingappa Narayana Swamy, Shri Justice Sanjay Yadav, Shri Sushil Chandra, Shri justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, Shri Pankaj Kumar and Shri Ajay Tirkey. He extended greetings of Independence Day to all Hon’ble Members, senior officers, staff and their family members.

Recalling the inspiring words of Gurudev Rabindranath Tagore, he emphasized the vision of a nation “where the mind is without fear and the head is held high.” Citizens were urged to reaffirm this ideal and uphold it in thought and action.

The address highlighted that India’s freedom is hard-earned, achieved through the immense sacrifices of freedom fighters and countless patriots whose courage continues to inspire future generations. The hoisting of the National Flag was described as not merely a ceremonial act but a solemn reminder of both the nation’s past and the responsibilities that accompany freedom. He stressed that true freedom means freedom from hunger, injustice, oppression, and inequality, and the opportunity for every citizen to live with dignity.

Special emphasis was laid on the role of the Lokpal of India as an institution committed to clean, and corruption free governance. The increasing number of complaints received by the Lokpal was viewed as a sign of growing citizen engagement and confidence in the institution.

He reaffirmed the Lokpal’s commitment to the Constitution, the rule of law, accountability, efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. He called for an institution that is efficient, transparent, accessible, and strengthened through the effective use of technology. He emphasised on the Lokpal’s fundamental purpose to serve the Constitution, to uphold the rule of law and to ensure that public authority is exercised with responsibility. All officials were urged to treat every complaint with seriousness, fairness, and objectivity, remembering that behind every file is a citizen seeking justice and a life affected by institutional decisions.

He concluded his speech by expressing sincere gratitude to the Hon’ble Members, officers, staff, and their families for their dedication and professionalism and thanked everyone for participating in the celebration. The speech ended with a patriotic call of “Jai Hind”.

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NKR/AV