Constitution Day, also known as "Samvidhan Divas." Each year, on November 26th, India celebrates Constitution Day, a day dedicated to honoring the birth of the nation's supreme legal document—the Constitution of India. Adopted in 1949, the Constitution is not just a set of laws, but a reflection of the dreams and aspirations of millions of Indians. It represents the core values of democracy, justice, liberty, and equality, and serves as a guiding lamp for the country’s governance and societal norms.
The Birth of the Constitution
Creating the Indian Constitution was a colossal task, and it was drafted by some of the most eminent leaders and legal minds of the time. Here are a few key figures involved in its drafting:
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Often referred to as the "Father of the Indian Constitution," Dr. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. He played a pivotal role in framing the Constitution and ensuring the inclusion of fundamental rights and social justice provisions.
Dr. Rajendra Prasad: As the President of the Constituent Assembly, Dr. Prasad was instrumental in overseeing the debates and discussions that shaped the Constitution.
Jawaharlal Nehru: The first Prime Minister of India, Nehru contributed significantly to the philosophical and political foundations of the Constitution.
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Known as the "Iron Man of India," Patel's contributions were crucial in shaping the administrative and federal structure of the Constitution.
Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer: A member of the Drafting Committee, Iyer was a prominent lawyer whose legal expertise was invaluable in drafting the Constitution.
K.M. Munshi: Another key member of the Drafting Committee, Munshi played a significant role in formulating various provisions of the Constitution.
B.N. Rau: As the Constitutional Advisor, Rau prepared the initial draft of the Constitution, which served as the foundation for subsequent deliberations.
Why Constitution Day is Important
Constitution Day is a reminder of the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution, which include justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It is a day to reflect on the importance of the rule of law and the role of the Constitution in maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation.
Key Highlights of the Indian Constitution
Preamble: The Preamble sets forth the guiding principles of the Constitution, including justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Fundamental Rights: These are the basic human rights guaranteed to all citizens, such as the right to equality, freedom of speech, and the right to life and personal liberty.
Directive Principles of State Policy: These are guidelines for the government to ensure social and economic welfare, aiming to create a just society.
Federal Structure: The Constitution defines India as a federal state with a clear division of powers between the central and state governments.
Independent Judiciary: It ensures an independent judiciary to uphold the rights of citizens and maintain the rule of law.
.jpeg)
Landmark Case:
The Keshavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala case, decided in 1973, is a landmark judgment in Indian constitutional law. Here are the key highlights:
Basic Structure Doctrine: The Supreme Court of India established the "Basic Structure" doctrine, which states that certain fundamental features of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed through amendments by Parliament. This ensures that the core principles of the Constitution remain intact.
13-Judge Bench: This was the largest bench ever constituted by the Supreme Court, consisting of 13 judges, to address the critical question of Parliament's power to amend the Constitution.
Article 368: The case examined the extent of Parliament's power under Article 368 of the Constitution, which allows for amendments. The court ruled that while Parliament has wide powers to amend the Constitution, it cannot alter its basic structure.
Thin Majority Decision: The judgment was delivered by a narrow majority of 7-6, reflecting the complexity and significance of the issues at hand.
Impact on Constitutional Amendments: The ruling limited Parliament's ability to make amendments that would change the Constitution's basic structure, ensuring that the fundamental rights and principles enshrined in the Constitution are preserved.
Significance: The Kesavananda Bharati case is considered one of the most important judgments in Indian constitutional law, as it balances the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution with the need to protect its core principles.
This case has had a lasting impact on the interpretation and application of the Indian Constitution, ensuring that its essential features remain protected against arbitrary changes.
How Constitution Day is Celebrated
Educational Activities: Schools and colleges organize debates, essay competitions, and quizzes to educate students about the Constitution and its importance.
Public Functions: Government institutions and civic organizations hold public events, including seminars and discussions, to highlight the significance of the Constitution.
Pledge of Allegiance: Many organizations and institutions take a pledge to uphold the values and principles enshrined in the Constitution.
Media Campaigns: Media outlets run special programs and articles to spread awareness about the Constitution and its role in shaping modern India.
Conclusion
Constitution Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of the democratic values and freedoms that form the bedrock of Indian society. By acknowledging this day, we honor the vision of the framers of the Constitution and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It's a day to remind ourselves of the rights and responsibilities we have as citizens and to strive towards creating a more inclusive and just society.
