Loksatta party today joined all Indians in celebrating the country's 63rd birthday after attaining formal independence on 15 August 1947. On the occasion, the Karnataka party office had a festive atmosphere. After the flag-hoisting ceremony, the party members sat together to discuss and deliberate upon the current state of affairs of the state and the country.

Speaking on the occasion, senior party leader Mr N S Ramakanth elaborated, "In the span of a human life, in 63 years, we should have gone through many faces, and be able to reflect upon the past with some satisfaction. But if one looks at the same period from the perspective of the country, one is disappointed that we still have much to achieve, and that the quest for India's greatness still lies ahead of us. The 'real' development in India still awaits new generation. Millions of our countrymen are victims of avoidable suffering and unfulfilled potential due to stagnation of our political leadersip."

While the reasons for stagnation are many, how can one re-invigorate the country towards the path of change? To this, members drew analogy with the way the independence movement of the country was organised. Mr. Ajit Phadnis cited, "Our leaders who led the freedom movement were very intelligent people who had the best education of their time. Gandhiji studied law in University College, London, Nehru did his law at Cambridge, Sardar Patel studied law in India and London while Dr. Ambedkar was a Ph.D from Columbia University! Yet they chose to forego their lucrative career options elsewhere for the service of the country. And they knew that being a part of a national movement was the best way they could make a difference. We need a similar generation of strong-willed and service-minded people again."

To this Dr. Meenakshi Bharath responded, "But those were the times when people were recognised for their knowledge and hardwork. Unfortunately, today only dynasty and money matters in politics. There is no concept of merit in the mainstream parties, which keeps the talented out since they know they cannot do much in the current system."

Mr. Muralidhar Rao, party shadow cabinet member, responded, "This is where Loksatta is making a difference. Merit-based principles of internal democracy and financial transparency which mainstream parties today only dream of and make speeches about have been firmly ingrained in the party constitution and functioning. The party provides an ideal platform for the most talented men and women of the country to contribute to its development."

Earlier, the founder of Loksatta movement, Dr. JayaPrakash Narayan underlined that Lok Satta's model is different from that of traditional parties. "People in other parties may shine with money, ostentation and pomp and media coverage but in the Lok Satta the members need to have basic knowledge of public issues, and leadership qualities to awaken the people and mobilize support."

The Karnataka Loksatta party members called upon the best minds of the country- especially its budding changemakers among the youth - to lead the way for the necessary political transformation.