Prof Gulrez, however, pointed out that what distinguishes a ‘democratic constitution’ is its pledge to establish a ‘Rule of Law’ and to protect individual dignity and establish social solidarity.
Underlining the significance of transforming the words into action, he said that the notion of ‘Equality before law’ is meaningless if mob justice is the norm in the society, the idea of a welfare state has no meaning if there is a growing divide between the rich and the poor, and the fraternity has no significance in the absence of toleration and accommodation.
He said that the Aligarh Muslim University as an institution identifies itself with the country’s constitutional principles and its democratic ideals and it has done its bit in the educational upliftment and social empowerment of the people of India. Its students are flagbearers of Sir Syed’s vision and brand ambassadors of India’s growth story.
He urged the students to take a pledge to preserve the sanctity of the Indian Constitution in letter and spirit, and work for the safeguarding of India’s freedom, unity and solidarity by every means.
The Vice Chancellor later distributed prizes to the winners of the Mini Marathon organized by the Athletics Club, University Games Committee. The students of Ahmadi School for Visually Challenged, who won the ‘Half Marathon Race for Unity’ in the Girl’s and Boy’s events, also received prizes.
On the occasion, Prof Gulrez with his wife, Prof Naima Khatoon planted tree saplings to mark the occasion and visited students admitted in the University Health Service (UHS) to inquire about their health. They distributed fruits to the admitted students.
University students, Sumrana Muzaffar (B.Sc.) and Shahan Usmani (MBBS) also delivered speeches.
The flag hoisting ceremony was conducted by the Registrar, Mr Mohammad Imran (IPS), who also administered the Integrity Oath.
The university witnessed celebrations in all offices, faculties, colleges, departments and schools. The National Flag was also unfurled at the Administrative Block Building, Vice Chancellor's Lodge, Maualana Azad Library, Faculty of Arts, all schools and colleges of the University, all offices of the Deans and DSW, all Provost Offices and the Proctor's Office.
Earlier in the day, a Prabhat Pheri programme was organized by STS School for boys and by Abdullah Hall for girls.
The Department of Urdu organized a Mushaira (poetic evening) on the intervening night of January 25 and 26, with the Vice Chancellor, Prof Gulrez presiding over the proceedings of Mushaira.
