Celebrating 75 Years of the Constitution

The year 2024 marks milestone in Indian history. It is the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India. To honour this occasion, the central government has launched a year-long campaign titled ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhiman’. This initiative aims to educate citizens about the Constitution and the key figures involved in its drafting, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the 15 women who contributed .

Constitution Day Observance

Constitution Day is celebrated annually on November 26. This year, it is part of a broader campaign to enhance public awareness of constitutional values. The Union Minister of State for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, brought into light the importance of this observance during a recent press conference. The campaign seeks to instil respect for the Constitution across all levels of society.

Key Figures in Constitution Drafting

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is often referred to as the chief architect of the Constitution. His vision for a democratic and egalitarian society is reflected in the document. The contributions of the 15 women members of the Drafting Committee are also being emphasised. Their roles in shaping the Constitution are crucial yet often overlooked.

Campaign Activities

The campaign includes various activities across villages and districts. Initiatives will focus on reciting the Preamble of the Constitution. Regional events have already taken place in Bikaner, Prayagraj, and Guwahati. These events aim to engage diverse communities, especially in the Northeast, encouraging a deeper understanding of the Constitution.

Core Principles of the Constitution

The Constitution of India is the backbone of India’s democratic framework. It was adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950. The Constitution upholds the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These values have guided India’s political, social, and economic transformations over the past seven decades.

Significance of the Campaign

The ‘Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Swabhiman’ campaign is not just a celebration. It is an effort to instil constitutional values in the hearts and minds of citizens. By promoting awareness, the government aims to strengthen the democratic fabric of the nation.

Future Engagement

As the campaign progresses, more events and initiatives will be rolled out. The government plans to reach every corner of India, ensuring that the legacy of the Constitution is respected and understood by all citizens.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions on the Constitution of India.
2. Critically examine the role of women in the drafting of the Constitution of India.
3. Explain the significance of the Preamble in the Constitution of India.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the core principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity in the context of the Constitution of India.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s contributions on the Constitution of India.

1. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is recognized as the chief architect of the Constitution, shaping its democratic framework.
2. He emphasized social justice, equality, and the rights of marginalized communities, which are foundational to the Constitution.
3. Ambedkar’s advocacy for fundamental rights ensured protections against discrimination based on caste, gender, and religion.
4. His vision of a secular state is embedded in the Constitution, promoting religious freedom and equality.
5. His contributions have influenced India’s political landscape, encouraging a commitment to social reform and justice.

2. Critically examine the role of women in the drafting of the Constitution of India.

1. Fifteen women were part of the Drafting Committee, contributing to various aspects of the Constitution.
2. They advocated for gender equality and women’s rights, influencing provisions related to personal laws and social justice.
3. Women like Sarojini Naidu and Kamala Nehru played very important roles in representing women’s perspectives in the Constitution.
4. Their contributions highlight the importance of women’s voices in shaping national policy and governance.
5. Despite their important roles, women’s contributions are often overlooked in historical narratives, necessitating greater recognition.

3. Explain the significance of the Preamble in the Constitution of India.

1. The Preamble serves as the introduction to the Constitution, outlining its fundamental values and guiding principles.
2. It encapsulates the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, reflecting the aspirations of the Indian people.
3. The Preamble acts as a guiding light for interpreting the Constitution and its provisions.
4. It establishes the Constitution as a social contract between the government and citizens, promoting democratic governance.
5. The Preamble reinforces the commitment to a secular, democratic, and inclusive society.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the core principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity in the context of the Constitution of India.

1. Justice is embodied in the legal system, ensuring fair treatment and protection of rights for all citizens (e.g., Right to Equality).
2. Liberty is guaranteed through fundamental rights, allowing individuals to express themselves freely (e.g., Right to Freedom of Speech).
3. Equality is a mainstay of the Constitution, prohibiting discrimination and promoting equal opportunity (e.g., Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth).
4. Fraternity encourages a sense of brotherhood among citizens, promoting national integration and unity (e.g., Article 51A encourages citizens to promote harmony).
5. These principles together form the bedrock of India’s democratic framework, guiding laws and policies.