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 a press conference, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi unveiled evidence showing a widespread conspiracy to delete voters from electoral rolls in India. He presented examples and detailed data indicating that the alleged operations were carried out through automated systems and coordinated at a centralized level. Gandhi claimed that these tactics were used to manipulate elections in several states, and also accused the Election Commission of facilitating this voter deletion.
During a press conference, Rahul Gandhi accused Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar of aiding the suppression of votes belonging to marginalized communities like Dalits and minorities. The Election Commission denied the allegations, stating that no vote can be deleted online without proper procedures and investigation. However, the poll body did acknowledge failed attempts to delete votes in Karnataka's Aland constituency in 2023 and an FIR has been filed to investigate. The Congress leader claimed that the Election Commission is purposely obstructing investigations to hide the truth about these deletions.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi once again stirred up controversy by accusing the BJP and Election Commission of systematic voter fraud through manipulation of electoral rolls. In response, BJP MP Anurag Thakur fired back, accusing Gandhi of spreading baseless allegations and undermining democracy. The Election Commission has dismissed all of Gandhi's claims, citing that no voter's name can be deleted through online means without proper procedure.
Congress Leader Rahul Gandhi is set to address a press conference on Thursday, where he is expected to present evidence of alleged vote theft in Indian elections. Gandhi has been vocal about the issue in previous speeches, accusing the government of using unfair means to form their power. He also claimed that the Election Commission is working in collaboration with the ruling party. The Congress promised to provide proof to back their claims and expose corruption in the Mahadevapura Assembly segment in Karnataka.
The centre has directed the removal of 138 YouTube videos and 83 Instagram posts related to Adani, citing a Delhi court order. The move comes amid ongoing disputes over the Adani Group's involvement in various projects. This action has been met with criticism, with some questioning the government's interference in online content.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi revealed that the party has uncovered over 6,000 voter deletions in Aland constituency, Karnataka, ahead of the 2023 Assembly elections. According to their investigation, these deletions were not random or accidental but specifically targeted booths where the party was performing strongly. The deletions were carried out through fake applications and mobile numbers from outside Karnataka, raising concerns of an organized effort to manipulate the election process. Congress is calling for a thorough investigation to uphold the integrity of the democratic process.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has strongly criticized Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, accusing him of protecting those involved in "vote chori" (vote stealing) and undermining democracy. He cited recent instances of voter deletions in Karnataka's Aland and fraudulent additions in Maharashtra's Rajura as evidence of systematic targeting of Congress voters. Speaking at a press conference, Gandhi urged for a fair and transparent election process to uphold the principles of democracy.
Congress MP and leader of opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, held a news conference and claimed that the Chief Election Commissioner is protecting those who are destroying the Constitution and democracy in India. He also alleged that a group of people is systematically cutting the votes of minority groups who vote for the Congress party. In response, politicians from different parties have dismissed his accusations and stated that he is making these statements out of desperation and frustration.
United States President Donald Trump has expressed delight at the suspension of ABC's late-night talk show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, following backlash against his comments on the killing of conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. Trump criticized Kimmel's talent and ratings, calling him a "total loser" and "Fake News" host. The show will reportedly be replaced by other ABC programs and has been taken off air indefinitely. This comes after Kimmel addressed the killing of Kirk during a monologue and condemned attempts to politicize the case.
On Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 75th birthday, various ministers, politicians, and private companies took out expensive advertisements in English newspapers to wish him. The Times of India had the most ads, followed by The Indian Express, Hindustan Times, and The Hindu. Some advertisements were placed by lesser-known politicians and political parties, while companies and trade associations also joined in to greet the PM. One advertisement even detailed the achievements of PM Modi in seven milestones.