Seminar on Ethical and Democratic Values in Electoral Processes
- March 15, 2026
A one-day seminar on “Ethical and Democratic Values in Electoral Processes: Protection of Fundamental Rights” was successfully conducted on 14th March 2026 at the CIRDS Seminar Hall, Department of Social Work (Aided), Madras Christian College. The programme was jointly organized by the Department of Social Work (Aided) and SEWA – Social Work Students’ Association, in collaboration with Vigil India Movement and PLANT Trust.
The seminar commenced with a college prayer by Prof. Ninan John, followed by a welcome address by Mr. John Julian. The presidential address was delivered by Dr. S. Armstrong, and the inaugural address by Dr. M. Sakthivel. Felicitation addresses were given by Dr. Ranjini Sambath and Dr. R.T. John Suresh, emphasizing the importance of ethical electoral governance and protection of constitutional rights.
The technical sessions featured eminent speakers across disciplines. Session I on ethical values in electoral processes was led by Prof. Ninan John. Session II, focusing on democratic vulnerabilities, was handled by Dr. V. Vijay Devanesan. Session III included a panel discussion on electoral integrity and constitutional rights with contributions from Dr. R.T. John Suresh and Prof. G. Joseph Samuel Rajan, offering diverse academic and legal perspectives. Session IV on Artificial Intelligence in electoral processes was delivered by Dr. R. Venkataramanujam, highlighting emerging ethical concerns.
The programme concluded with group discussions and participant presentations, encouraging critical engagement and collaborative learning. The event ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. Jeremiah Pandian.
Finally, sincere thanks are extended to Dr. Prince Annadurai, Dr. Prince Solomon, Dr. Johannes, and all other staff members of the Department of Social Work for their valuable support in successfully organizing the programme.
Overall, the seminar served as a meaningful platform for dialogue on strengthening democratic systems through ethical practices and informed citizen participation.
The seminar commenced with a college prayer by Prof. Ninan John, followed by a welcome address by Mr. John Julian. The presidential address was delivered by Dr. S. Armstrong, and the inaugural address by Dr. M. Sakthivel. Felicitation addresses were given by Dr. Ranjini Sambath and Dr. R.T. John Suresh, emphasizing the importance of ethical electoral governance and protection of constitutional rights.
The technical sessions featured eminent speakers across disciplines. Session I on ethical values in electoral processes was led by Prof. Ninan John. Session II, focusing on democratic vulnerabilities, was handled by Dr. V. Vijay Devanesan. Session III included a panel discussion on electoral integrity and constitutional rights with contributions from Dr. R.T. John Suresh and Prof. G. Joseph Samuel Rajan, offering diverse academic and legal perspectives. Session IV on Artificial Intelligence in electoral processes was delivered by Dr. R. Venkataramanujam, highlighting emerging ethical concerns.
The programme concluded with group discussions and participant presentations, encouraging critical engagement and collaborative learning. The event ended with a vote of thanks by Mr. Jeremiah Pandian.
Finally, sincere thanks are extended to Dr. Prince Annadurai, Dr. Prince Solomon, Dr. Johannes, and all other staff members of the Department of Social Work for their valuable support in successfully organizing the programme.
Overall, the seminar served as a meaningful platform for dialogue on strengthening democratic systems through ethical practices and informed citizen participation.