6 March 2023, Bangalore: The famous Civil 20 (C20) meet under G20 was held in Bengaluru, India, and was hosted by RV University (RVU) and Grassroots Research and Advocacy Movement (GRAAM). The event's organisers hoped that by bringing together prominent scholars and thought leaders in the domains of democracy and governance, they would provide a valuable forum for the exchange of ideas. India, as G20 president, has established a number of "Engagement Groups," one of which is the Civil 20 (C-20). One of the goals of this working group, established under India's G20 presidency, is to address the pressing social and economic issues that affect people on a daily basis and provide long-term solutions to these problems.

The event at RVU was the first in a series that would take place in locations around the country. Members of civil society organisations from all throughout the country joined a round table discussion on the theme "Delivering Democracy" that followed the opening session. Mr. Arjun Ranga, Chairman CII, Karnataka, and Chairman, GRAAM presided over the proceedings, while Dr. Dyaneshwar Manohar Mulay, IFS (Ret. ), Member, National Human Rights Commission, was the event's Chief Guest (NHRC). In attendance were Mr. R.V. D'Souza, IAS, Secretary, Planning, Govt. of Karnataka; Mr. Kiran D.M., Sous Sherpa Civil 20-G20 and Former CEO, ONGC foundation; Dr. Y.S.R. Murthy, Vice-Chancellor, RV University; and Dr. Basavaraju R. Shreshta, National Coordinator- Delivering Democracy Working Group and Executive Director, GRAAM.

In his remarks, Chief Guest and Member of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Dr. Dyaneshwar Manohar Mulay emphasised the importance of taking a constructive stance if we are to make a good impact on the pursuit of freedom, equality, and justice. Passion and open-mindedness in daily life are essential for achieving justice. Democracy must be an effective and forward-thinking tool for advancement, with an attitude that is at once constructive, compassionate, and innovative. In a democratic society, rescuing endangered cultural and artistic treasures is a top priority. We need to bring about a paradigm shift in the way our democracy is practised, and the only way to do so is by nonviolent means. Democracy is the key to our future, but it comes with a hefty price: constant vigilance. Contributing, conserving, and advocating for it must be done on our part.

"The theme of the G20 under Indian Presidency is Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — one Earth, one Family, and one future," said RV University Vice Chancellor and Professor Y.S.R. Murthy. Poverty, climate change, conflict, terrorism, and corruption are just a handful of the many threats to our future that we currently confront as a global community. The four freedoms of expression, assembly, association, and speech must all be fully protected in a democratic society for it to thrive. The grassroots can benefit from growth when there is cooperation between the government and civil society.

The Delivering Democracy Working Group of the C-20 will hold a number of knowledge assimilation events, both in-person and online, to encourage participation from all sectors, foster open dialogue, and ultimately identify a "democratic path" for the C-20.

Regarding RVU:

RV University, which opened its doors to students in 2021 and is backed by the 83-year tradition of RV Educational Institutions, is a cutting-edge, technology-driven, worldwide institution of higher learning that emphasises the liberal arts and sciences. Liberal Arts and Sciences, Design and Innovation, Business, Economics, and Computer Science and Engineering are the five areas of study that the University provides undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees in. Starting in 2023, students at RVU's sixth School of Law (established in 2022) will be able to enrol in courses. It collaborates with approximately 75 top-tier international schools and businesses.