As India celebrates the 75th anniversary of its Constitution, the political scene is abuzz with discussions on its teachings and values. The Congress has requested two days in Parliament to discuss the document, while President Droupadi Murmu stressed its significance in a joint sitting. The Supreme Court also upheld the validity of ‘secular’ and ‘socialist’ in the Preamble, with Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue to uphold the sanctity of our democratic institutions and promote informed citizenship.
Celebrating the Importance of India's Constitution
India is marking the 75th anniversary of its Constitution, which was adopted on November 26, 1949, following two years of deliberations by the Constituent Assembly. The Constitution is a sacred document that defines the country's framework of government and the fundamental rights and duties of its citizens.
Political Discussion and Significance
As India celebrates this milestone, the importance of the Constitution and its teachings is being widely discussed in the political arena. The Congress party has requested two days in Parliament to debate the document, highlighting its enduring relevance. President Droupadi Murmu, addressing a joint sitting of Parliament, emphasized the Constitution's significance as the guarantor of India's sovereignty, unity, and integrity.
The Supreme Court played a crucial role in upholding the validity of the words "secular" and "socialist" in the Constitution's Preamble. These terms, the court stated, are essential to the foundational principles of the Indian state.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar stressed the need for constructive dialogue to uphold the sanctity of democratic institutions and promote informed citizenship. He urged all stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions to strengthen India's constitutional framework.
Background
The Indian Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 following India's independence from British rule. It was tasked with drafting a constitution that would reflect the aspirations of the newly independent nation. The Assembly, which included prominent figures such as Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, spent two years debating and deliberating over the Constitution's clauses and provisions.
The Constitution was finally adopted on November 26, 1949, and it came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking the birth of the Republic of India.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
The Indian Constitution is the world's longest, with 395 articles and 12 schedules. It establishes a parliamentary system of government with a bicameral legislature, a federal structure with a strong center, and an independent judiciary.
2. What is the significance of the Preamble to the Constitution?
The Preamble to the Constitution defines India as a sovereign, democratic, republic. It also proclaims India's commitment to social, economic, and political justice, as well as liberty, equality, and fraternity.
3. Who was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, also known as the "Father of the Indian Constitution," served as the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly and played a pivotal role in drafting the Constitution.
4. What are the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution?
The Constitution guarantees a wide range of fundamental rights to Indian citizens, including the right to life, liberty, and equality; freedom of speech, expression, and assembly; and the right to property and religious freedom.
5. How has the Constitution been amended over time?
The Constitution has been amended 104 times since its adoption. These amendments have been made to address changing circumstances and to adapt the Constitution to evolving needs and aspirations.
In an effort to combat rising drug abuse rates, the National Medical Commission (NMC) has announced the implementation of Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan (Drug-Free India Campaign) in all medical colleges across India. Along with this, the NMC has also requested the formation of drug-free hostel committees, a schedule of activities, and awareness programs for students, faculty, and staff. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, in collaboration with the NMC, is also planning to launch Tobacco Cessation Centres in all medical colleges to help individuals quit tobacco consumption and reduce tobacco-related diseases.
The National Medical Commission (NMC) has issued detailed guidelines for All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), medical colleges, and other higher educational institutions to implement Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan activities to tackle the growing issue of substance abuse among students. These measures include forming committees, conducting awareness campaigns, and creating referral systems to provide support to students. The government hopes that this collaborative approach will help curb drug trafficking and protect the student population from falling prey to substance abuse.
The Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant, announced a major step towards inclusive mobility by offering a 50% concession on bus fares for women employed in the private sector. This move aims to make daily commuting more affordable and encourage more women to join the workforce. The announcement was made at the launch of the Mhaji Bus Scheme 2025 in Sanquelim, which also includes benefits for private bus operators such as operational subsidies and upgraded technology. Sawant assured current operators that they will not be left out during the system's upgrade and urged them to join the scheme for significant annual benefits.
Former Member of the Scottish Parliament, Wendy Alexander, has accused Dundee University of pressuring her to leave her position as Vice Principal International due to her questioning of the institution's financial practices. She claims she was offered a "package and trips" as a way to leave quietly. This revelation comes after a recent report revealing financial mismanagement at the university, with the former principal, Prof Iain Gillespie, resigning last year. Alexander's comments were made in a statement to Holyrood's education committee, which also heard evidence from other former university officials expressing regret for not implementing cost-cutting measures earlier and acknowledging the pain caused to students and staff.
Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan has announced a rally in Rajgir – the hometown of his alliance partner and Chief Minister Nitish Kumar – strategically aimed at expanding his base among other Bahujan communities. The LJP (RV) has called the event "Bahujan sankalp samagam" where the 42-year-old leader will focus on a "new leadership" for the state and aim to claim a larger share in the upcoming state Assembly polls. With the key allies of the BJP-led NDA locking horns over seat-sharing, Chirag seems to be positioning himself as a major player in Bihar politics and is set to make an announcement that could potentially change the political landscape of the state.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Headquarters of the Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, fulfilling a major demand of farmers in Telangana. The event was attended by various BJP leaders, who welcomed Shah at the Begumpet airport. The establishment of the Turmeric Board was a key election promise by BJP Lok Sabha member D Arvind, who defeated K Chandrasekhar Rao's daughter in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. This move is aimed at improving the quality and income of turmeric farmers in the region.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Headquarters of the Turmeric Board in Nizamabad, Telangana. The ceremony was attended by several prominent leaders such as Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy, Union MoDS (Home) Bandi Sanjay Kumar, BJP MP K Laxman, and BJP Lok Sabha member from Nizamabad, D Arvind. This move is expected to boost the production and export of turmeric, a key spice in Indian cuisine, and support the farmers in the region.
With the latest news and developments surrounding Justice PG Ajithkumar, stay informed about the famous judge's groundbreaking cases and decisions. Stay connected and up-to-date with the latest verdicts and judgments made by the well-known Justice as he continues to make waves in the legal world. Don't miss out on any crucial updates and stay on top of the current political landscape with this exciting news piece featuring Justice PG Ajithkumar.
The Karnataka High Court on Wednesday heard arguments from ride-hailing platforms Ola, Uber, and Rapido, as well as the Bike Taxi Welfare Association, challenging a state-wide ban on bike taxis. Advocates for the petitioners argued that the ban violated their right to livelihood and hindered the service's potential to decongest roads and bridge last-mile connectivity gaps in urban areas. The ban was put in place following an expert committee report opposing bike taxis, but was later reversed to allow operations until the state issues specific guidelines. The matter is set for further hearing on July 2.
In a press conference held in Hyderabad, BRS leader P Karthik Reddy voiced his concerns over the alleged discrimination against Rangareddy district by the Telangana government. He has given an ultimatum of one week for the government to release the Rythu Bandhu funds to the farmers, threatening to go on an indefinite hunger strike if his demands are not met. Reddy also questioned the chief minister about his knowledge of the combined Rangareddy district and accused him of neglecting the district due to lack of support from the Congress.