‘We the People of India’ Seminar Empowers Tamil Nadu Youth on Constitutional Values

A vibrant event titled “We the People of India” brought together more than 200 young people on November 8 at the Pastoral Centre of the Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore, Tamil Nadu, South India.

Organized by the Archdiocesan Youth Commission, in collaboration with Christ Focus and the Catholic Professional Forum, the one-day seminar aimed to help young people understand the values and vision of the Indian Constitution. It sought to strengthen civic awareness among youth, enabling them to understand their rights and duties while encouraging them to practice the principles of democracy, equality, and justice in their daily lives.

The Soul of the Constitution – An Exploration

The first session, led by Dr. Fathima Vasanth, Director of Patrician College, Chennai, was titled “Helping Youth Understand the Indian Constitution.” She emphasized that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a living expression of India’s moral and social conscience. Using several real-life examples related to fundamental rights, she explained the importance of Articles 14 (Right to Equality), 19 (Freedom of Speech and Expression), and 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty). She also addressed issues such as mental health, responsible digital usage, and discrimination, urging young people to reflect the ethics of the Constitution in their speech, thoughts, and actions.

Youth – Catalysts of Democracy

The second session, conducted by Dr. Vincent Kamaraj, Head of the School of Law at St. Joseph University, Chennai, focused on “Youth as Catalysts for Promoting the Core Values of the Indian Constitution.” He highlighted the origins of the Constitution, reminding participants that it was born from a collective dream for a just and inclusive India. He stressed that fraternity and unity in diversity must remain central to Indian democracy. “Our Constitution is not an old relic,” he said. “It is a guide for how we live, speak, and interact with one another.”

Both sessions concluded with interactive discussions involving students and young participants, covering topics ranging from social media ethics to equality and citizenship.

Renewed Sense of Citizenship

At the end of the day, participants pledged to practice constitutional values within their families, communities, and institutions, striving to build a society rooted in justice, equality, and fraternity.

The “We the People of India” seminar served as a meaningful platform for youth to recognize their role in shaping a democratic and compassionate society, one that continues to embody the ideals expressed in India’s founding document.