Amit Shah Defends Dissent In Democracy; Announces Seva Sankalp Abhiyan

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday defended the role of dissent in a democracy while discussing the social and political impact of recent Gen Z-led student demonstrations across the country.

Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Shah said the government places public dialogue, engagement and consensus at the centre of its governance approach.

“We live in a vibrant democracy. People naturally hold diverse views on various issues, and expressing those opinions is essential,” HM Shah remarked. “Our government does not believe in governing by declaring an Emergency. That reflects the culture of the Congress party. Our ethos is fundamentally different—we prioritise open discussion, engagement, and continuous dialogue with citizens.”

Shah simultaneously reiterated the government’s position on national security and illegal immigration. He further said authorities would identify illegal infiltrators and deport them from the country.

The Home Minister announced the NDA’s ‘Seva Sankalp Abhiyan’, which will run nationwide from September 17 to October 17.

The campaign will commemorate Prime Minister Narendra Modi completing 25 uninterrupted years in high public office, beginning with his tenure as Gujarat Chief Minister and continuing as Prime Minister.

The programme will, however, combine public welfare initiatives with activities highlighting major policy achievements.

A 12-point plan will drive engagement at block and taluka levels across the country.

The campaign will, however, include the Seva Setu Abhiyan and nationwide blood donation drives. It will feature specialised Anganwadi services and Namo Seva community programmes.

Organisers will conduct the Seva Jyoti Kalash Yatra, cultural, musical and theatrical events, and pilgrimage journeys between Vadnagar and Varanasi.

Shah described PM Modi’s leadership as an example of selfless service. He further connected the Prime Minister’s approach with the teachings of Guru Nanak and Saint Samarth Ramdas.

Shah pointed to poverty reduction, direct benefit transfers, PM-Kisan support for farmers, Ujjwala connections, Lakhpati Didis, railway expansion, the removal of Article 370, the Ram Mandir and Kashi Vishwanath developments, and Chandrayaan-3 as key achievements.

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