The Lok Sabha is currently engaged in two-day debate on the Constitution of India, commemorating its 75th anniversary since adoption. This debate has emerged as important point of contention between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Opposition. The discussions are expected to reflect on the Constitution’s evolution and its relevance in contemporary governance. The Opposition has long demanded a focus on constitutional matters, accusing the government of neglecting these discussions.
Background of the Constitution Debate
The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949. It laid the foundation for India’s democratic governance. The ongoing debate aims to reaffirm the commitment to constitutional values amid rising political tensions. The BJP has called for this discussion, asserting its dedication to upholding constitutional principles.
Political Context
The debate has intensified due to allegations surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s connections to the Adani controversy. The Congress party has also faced scrutiny over its alleged ties with billionaire George Soros. These accusations have led to disruptions in Parliament, with both parties accusing each other of undermining democratic processes.
Structure of the Debate
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will initiate the debate in the Lok Sabha, with Prime Minister Modi expected to conclude. The Rajya Sabha will follow with discussions on December 16 and 17. Participation is anticipated from around 12 to 15 MPs from the BJP and its allies.
Significance of the Debate
This debate serves as an opportunity for the government to showcase its adherence to constitutional principles. It also marks the ideological conflict regarding the interpretation of the Constitution, particularly the balance of power between the judiciary and legislature. The role of religion in public life and the application of fundamental rights are key issues to be addressed.
Opposition’s Stance
The Congress party has positioned itself as a defender of the Constitution, asserting that it is under threat from the current government. Leaders like Rahul Gandhi have accused the BJP of centralising power and undermining independent institutions. The Congress has also raised concerns about the alleged misuse of investigative agencies.
Reservation Policies
Another contentious issue is the reservation system for marginalised communities. The Congress has accused the BJP of attempting to dismantle this system. Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Congress plans to propose a constitutional amendment to increase the reservation cap for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
Parliamentary Disruptions
Recent sessions have been marred by disruptions, including a no-confidence motion against Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar. Allegations regarding Sonia Gandhi’s connections to George Soros have further escalated tensions. The Opposition has accused the Chairman of bias, while the BJP has countered with accusations against Congress for its alleged associations with Soros-backed entities.
Future Implications
The outcome of this debate may influence future legislative actions and the political landscape in India. The ongoing rivalry between the BJP and Congress could shape public perception and electoral strategies in the lead-up to the next elections.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of the Constitution of India on the democratic framework of India since its adoption.
- Critically examine the role of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional balance in India.
- Explain the significance of reservation policies for marginalised communities in contemporary Indian society.
- With suitable examples, discuss the implications of political rivalry on parliamentary proceedings in India.
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the impact of the Constitution of India on the democratic framework of India since its adoption.
- Established fundamental rights and duties for citizens, ensuring individual freedoms.
- Provided a framework for governance, delineating powers among the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
- Promoted social justice through affirmative action and provisions for marginalized communities.
- Facilitated the peaceful transfer of power through regular elections and democratic processes.
- Encouraged federalism, allowing for a distribution of powers between the central and state governments.
2. Critically examine the role of the judiciary in maintaining constitutional balance in India.
- Acts as the guardian of the Constitution, ensuring laws comply with constitutional provisions.
- Interprets the Constitution to resolve conflicts between different branches of government.
- Protects fundamental rights by adjudicating cases of infringement by the state or individuals.
- Handles public interest litigations, allowing citizens to seek justice on broader societal issues.
- Challenges include accusations of judicial overreach and delays in the justice delivery system.
3. Explain the significance of reservation policies for marginalised communities in contemporary Indian society.
- Reservation policies aim to provide equitable opportunities in education and employment for SCs, STs, and OBCs.
- Promotes social inclusion and addresses historical injustices faced by marginalized groups.
- Enhances political representation and participation of underrepresented communities in governance.
- Controversies arise around the adequacy and effectiveness of current reservation quotas.
- Recent discussions focus on expanding reservations to economically weaker sections across communities.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the implications of political rivalry on parliamentary proceedings in India.
- Political rivalry often leads to disruptions, as seen in the Congress-BJP conflicts over the Adani controversy.
- Frequent adjournments and no-confidence motions disrupt legislative business, hindering governance.
- Opposition parties may use walkouts or protests to draw attention to issues, affecting session productivity.
- Examples include the Congress’s insistence on debates leading to washouts of Parliament sessions.
- Such rivalries can polarize public opinion and impact electoral strategies and voter behavior.
