Rijiju Calls for Renewed Commitment to Constitution on Its 76th Anniversary

On November 26, 2023, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju urged citizens of India to reaffirm their commitment to the core values enshrined in the Constitution as the nation celebrated Constitution Day. In a message shared on social media platform X, Rijiju highlighted the vision of the Constitution’s framers and the principles that underpin India’s democracy: justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Celebrations and Participation

The adoption of the Constitution by the Indian Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, marked a significant milestone for the country, coming into effect on January 26, 1950. This year marks the 76th anniversary of that pivotal event. The Central government commemorates this day to honor the principles of democracy, justice, and equality.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Constitution Day celebrations at the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, beginning at approximately 11 AM. The event also saw the presence of President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President CP Radhakrishnan, and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, along with Members of Parliament from both Houses. A key highlight of the ceremony was the President leading the reading of the Preamble to the Constitution of India.

In a significant move to promote inclusivity, a translated version of the Constitution will be released in nine languages: Malayalam, Marathi, Nepali, Punjabi, Bodo, Kashmiri, Telugu, Odia, and Assamese. Additionally, a commemorative booklet titled “Art and Calligraphy in the Indian Constitution” will be unveiled during the celebrations.

Political Debates Surrounding Constitution Day

In the political arena, the Indian National Congress has designated November 26 as “Samvidhan Bachao Divas,” directing its state units to observe this day at Pradesh Congress Committee offices and district headquarters nationwide. The Congress party emphasized the day’s significance, particularly in light of challenges facing Indian democratic institutions.

“This year’s observance carries profound significance given the unprecedented challenges facing our democratic institutions and the very spirit of our Constitution,”

read a letter from the Congress party, underscoring concerns about the fundamental values of justice, liberty, equality, fraternity, and citizens’ rights being under strain.

The Congress highlighted what it described as a growing attack on the Constitution, citing instances of “systematic vote theft, electoral malpractices, abuse of institutions, and dubious Special Intensive Revision (SIR)-driven attempts to distort electoral rolls.” The party called for a collective effort to expose these threats and reaffirm commitment to the Constitution.

As the nation reflects on the principles of its Constitution, the call from Rijiju and the actions of various political entities highlight the ongoing dialogue surrounding the document’s relevance and the challenges faced by India’s democracy today.