Constitution Day – Celebrating India’s Foundational Document

Constitution Day, observed on November 26, marks the adoption of the Constitution of India in 1949. This year, India commemorated 75 years of this important event. The day serves as a reminder of the values enshrined in the Constitution and the vision of its framers, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Recent discussions have brought into light Ambedkar’s concerns about political integrity and the importance of placing national interest above individual or party affiliations.

Historical Context

The Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950. This document laid the foundation for India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. The Constituent Assembly, comprising 299 members, took over three years to draft the Constitution, drawing inspiration from various global sources, including the Government of India Act of 1935.

Role of Women in the Constituent Assembly

Women played important role in the Constituent Assembly. Out of the 299 members, 15 were women, including notable figures such as Sarojini Naidu and Sucheta Kripalani. These women addressed issues of gender equality, caste discrimination, and social justice, contributing to the Constitution’s progressive framework.

Significance of November 26

In 2015, the Government of India officially designated November 26 as Constitution Day to promote constitutional values. This date coincided with the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the Constitution. The observance aims to enhance public understanding of the Constitution and its importance in safeguarding democracy and rights.

Ambedkar’s Warnings

Ambedkar expressed deep concerns about the future of Indian democracy. He feared that internal divisions based on creed, caste, and community could jeopardise national unity. He cautioned against hero-worship in politics, advocating for a system that prioritises collective governance over individual glorification. Ambedkar believed that true democracy must be rooted in social equality and justice.

Debates on Secularism

The Constituent Assembly grappled with the concept of secularism and the role of religion in governance. There were important debates on whether to include references to God in the Preamble of the Constitution. Ultimately, the Assembly chose to uphold a secular framework, ensuring freedom of belief for all citizens while avoiding the imposition of any particular religion.

Legacy and Ongoing Relevance

The Constitution remains a living document, adaptable to the changing needs of society. It continues to inspire debates on rights, governance, and social justice. As India approaches the 2024 elections, the Constitution’s principles are invoked in political discourse, denoting its enduring significance.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of the Constitution of India on the socio-political landscape of India since its adoption.
2. Critically examine the role of women in the Constituent Assembly and their contributions to the Constitution of India.
3. Explain the significance of secularism in the Constitution of India and its implications for contemporary governance.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by the Constitution of India in maintaining its democratic ethos in the 21st century.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of the Constitution of India on the socio-political landscape of India since its adoption.

1. Established India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
2. Provided a framework for fundamental rights and duties, promoting social justice.
3. Facilitated the functioning of parliamentary democracy and rule of law.
4. Enabled legal and social reforms, addressing caste and gender inequalities.
5. Influenced political discourse, guiding governance and citizen engagement.

2. Critically examine the role of women in the Constituent Assembly and their contributions to the Constitution of India.

1. 15 women members contributed to discussions on gender equality and social justice.
2. Figures like Sarojini Naidu and Sucheta Kripalani advocated for women’s rights in the Constitution.
3. Addressed issues of caste, reservations, and the Hindu Code Bill.
4. Highlighted the importance of women’s participation in the political process.
5. Helped shape a progressive framework that recognized women’s rights and roles in society.

3. Explain the significance of secularism in the Constitution of India and its implications for contemporary governance.

1. Secularism ensures freedom of belief and practice for all religions.
2. Promotes equality and prevents discrimination based on religion.
3. Facilitates a neutral state that does not favor any religion over others.
4. Encourages pluralism and social harmony in a diverse society.
5. Challenges contemporary governance by addressing religious identity politics and communal tensions.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by the Constitution of India in maintaining its democratic ethos in the 21st century.

1. Rise of populism and majoritarianism undermining constitutional values.
2. Increasing communal tensions and challenges to secularism, e.g., CAA protests.
3. Political polarization affecting dialogue and collaboration across parties.
4. Judicial overreach and questions regarding the independence of the judiciary.
5. Need for reforms to address socio-economic inequalities and empower marginalized communities.