Today, the nation comes together to celebrate India's 76th Republic Day with a grand parade at Kartavya Path. The event, with a theme of "Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas," will showcase India's strength and unity, with 18 marching units, 15 bands, and 31 tableaux on display. PM Modi and President Murmu will lead the celebrations, with Indonesian President Subianto as the chief guest. Additionally, Tamil Nadu Governor Ravi and CM Stalin will witness a special parade in Chennai, while Vice President Dhankhar and Kerala CM Vijayan reaffirm their commitment to the values of justice, equality, secularism, and unity in diversity enshrined in India's Constitution. This year's Republic Day highlights the country's progress and determination towards a better future.
Republic Day: A Symbol of Unity and Progress
Republic Day, celebrated on January 26th, marks the day when India officially adopted its Constitution and became a sovereign democratic republic. This year, India celebrates its 76th Republic Day, reflecting on its remarkable journey and the strength of its diverse population.
Background
The Indian Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly, which was elected in 1946. The Assembly, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, spent nearly three years drafting the Constitution, drawing inspiration from various sources, including the Government of India Act of 1935 and the Constitutions of other countries.
On January 26, 1950, the Constitution came into effect, replacing the Government of India Act and making India a republic. The day is celebrated as Republic Day every year to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution.
Celebrations
Republic Day celebrations are held throughout India, with the main event taking place in New Delhi. The grand parade at Kartavya Path (formerly Rajpath) is a key highlight, featuring marching units from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, and paramilitary forces. Cultural tableaux from various states showcase India's rich diversity.
This year's theme, "Swarnim Bharat: Virasat aur Vikas," emphasizes India's golden heritage and its progress towards a better future. The parade will reflect this theme through its displays of strength and unity.
Significance
Republic Day is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by the freedom fighters who fought for India's independence. It is also a reminder of the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution, including justice, equality, and secularism.
By celebrating Republic Day, Indians reaffirm their commitment to these values and to the principles of democracy, unity, and diversity.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Who was the first President of India? Dr. Rajendra Prasad
2. What is the preamble of the Indian Constitution? "WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens: JUSTICE, social, economic and political; LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship; EQUALITY of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation"
3. What is the current population of India? Approximately 1.4 billion (2023)
4. What is the official language of India? Hindi
5. Who is the current Prime Minister of India? Narendra Modi
BR Patil, Congress MLA from Karnataka's Aland, has claimed that there was an attempt by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to steal votes leading up to the 2023 elections in the state. This allegation, backed by evidence of over 6,000 voter deletions, has been supported by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi who has accused the BJP of systematically deleting the names of Congress voters. The BJP has denied these allegations, calling it a ploy by the Congress to discredit them and gain political mileage. However, Gandhi has hinted at more significant revelations to come.
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, slammed the Karnataka government for the deteriorating state of Bengaluru's infrastructure, which has resulted in an IT company moving out of the city. He criticized Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar for their negligence and corruption. Kumaraswamy appealed to the industries not to leave Bengaluru and promised to rebuild the city. He also called out the government for their failure in utilizing taxpayers' money for development and demanded answers for the same.
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.