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.
After the Mahayuti alliance's landslide victory in Maharashtra Assembly elections, current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has submitted his resignation to the Governor. As the term of the current government ends today, Shinde will serve as caretaker CM until a new leader is sworn in. All eyes are on who will secure the CM post, with BJP MLAs supporting Fadnavis. Meanwhile, rituals and pujas are being conducted in over 100 temples for Shinde's continuation as CM in the Mahayuti 2.0 government yet to be formed.
Following the landslide victory of the Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde has resigned as Chief Minister and been appointed as caretaker by the Governor. However, the suspense over who will be the next chief minister continues as the Aghadi alliance's dream to wrest power has been shattered. Despite their thumping victory, the Mahayuti coalition has been delayed in forming the government due to the Shiv Sena's insistence on Shinde continuing as chief minister.
Six people, including security personnel, have been killed and over 100 injured as protests turned violent in Islamabad. The government has deployed the army and ordered them to shoot on sight. The protests, demanding the release of ex-PM Imran Khan, come amidst political tension in the country. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi also invoked the Constitution in a recent speech, suggesting that the issue may play a role in the 2024 elections.
The Supreme Court of India has rejected three petitions requesting the removal of the words 'secular' and 'socialist' from the Indian Constitution's Preamble. The Bench, headed by Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, stated that the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution extends to the Preamble as well. The court also clarified that the terms 'secular' and 'socialist' are integral to the Constitution and do not restrict the government's economic policies or private initiatives.
In a special event held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, President Droupadi Murmu paid tribute and recognized the crucial contributions of 15 women members of the Indian Constituent Assembly in shaping the country's constitutional framework. During her address, President Murmu highlighted the significant impact of these women in ensuring gender equality and representation in the democratic process, and their tireless efforts in making the Constitution inclusive and progressive. This event serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable women who have played a pivotal role in shaping the destiny of India.
After the term of the Maharashtra state assembly came to an end, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stepped down from his post. However, he will continue serving as the caretaker CM until the Mahayuti alliance decides on new leadership. The political decision has sparked discussions and speculations about who will take over as the new CM.
Chief Justice of India Sanjeev Khanna spoke at a Constitution Day event, highlighting the transformative journey of India since independence and the role of the Constitution in shaping the country. He emphasized that the Constitution is a way of life that must be upheld by both judges and members of the bar. The annual observance of Constitution Day was officially declared in 2015 to honor the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution.
The Supreme Court has dismissed a set of petitions demanding the elimination of "secular", "socialist" and "integrity" from the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. The court stated that after 44 years of their introduction in 1976 by the Indira Gandhi government, there is no genuine reason for challenging the Constitutional amendment. The petitioners, including Subramanian Swamy, argued that these words violate the basic structure of the Constitution, but the apex court disagreed and emphasized that parliament holds the power to amend it. The court also pointed out the delay in filing the petition and clarified that parliament's power to amend the Constitution is not constrained by the date of its adoption.
After Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's victory in the 2024 Indian parliamentary elections, members of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) expressed their congratulations and belief that her win signifies a boost for women's empowerment in India. They also drew comparisons to her grandmother, Indira Gandhi, who they say championed women's rights during her tenure as prime minister. Meanwhile, they criticized the opposing BJP and RSS parties for their lack of support for women in politics and society.