On November 26, 2024, India commemorated the 75th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution, a landmark event that laid the foundation for the democratic republic we are today. Known as Constitution Day or Samvidhan Divas, this day honors the Indian Constitution, which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950.
The adoption of the Constitution marked the birth of a sovereign, democratic republic, and the day has since been celebrated annually to remember its adoption and the democratic ideals it represents.
Key Highlights of Constitution Day:
1. Evolution of the Indian Constitution
- Constituent Assembly Formation: After India’s independence in 1947, the Constituent Assembly was formed to draft the country’s new Constitution. It consisted of elected representatives from various parts of India, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar played a pivotal role as the chairman of the drafting committee. The assembly worked diligently for nearly three years, from December 9, 1946, to November 26, 1949, to finalize the document.
- Adoption of the Constitution (1950): The Indian Constitution officially came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking the birth of the Republic of India. This day is celebrated as Republic Day in India. It declared India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
2. Amendments and Evolution
Since its adoption, the Constitution has been amended over 100 times, reflecting the changing needs of the society and governance. Some of the most significant amendments include:
- First Amendment (1951): Allowed for restrictions on certain fundamental rights.
- 42nd Amendment (1976): Introduced significant changes during the Emergency period, adding the terms “socialist” and “secular” to the preamble.
- 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992): Provided constitutional recognition to local self-governments (Panchayats and Municipalities).
3. Judicial Interpretations and Constitutional Development
The Indian judiciary has played a critical role in interpreting the Constitution. Landmark cases such as Kesavananda Bharati (1973), Maneka Gandhi (1978), and Minerva Mills (1980) have shaped how fundamental rights, the separation of powers, and governance mechanisms are understood.
4. Key Constitutional Values
The Constitution enshrines several core values that guide the functioning of the Indian state and society:
- Sovereign: India has full control over its internal and external affairs, free from external interference.
- Democracy: Political power lies with the people, who elect their leaders through free and fair elections.
- Republic: The President is elected, not hereditary, ensuring democratic leadership.
- Secular: The state ensures equal treatment for all religions.
- Social Justice: The Constitution provides protections for marginalized communities through affirmative actions.
- Rule of Law: Every individual is subject to the law, ensuring justice and equality.
- Federalism: Power is divided between the central and state governments, ensuring balanced governance.
- Fundamental Rights: Guaranteed to all individuals, these rights protect citizens from arbitrary actions by the state.
- Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP): Guidelines for establishing a welfare state focused on social and economic justice.
- Unity and Integrity of the Nation: Emphasizes national unity despite the country’s vast diversity.
5. Fascinating Facts about the Indian Constitution
- M.N. Roy, an Indian revolutionary, first proposed the idea of an Indian Constituent Assembly in 1934.
- The Constitution is handwritten in Hindi and English, and both versions were calligraphed by Prem Behari Narain Raizada.
- The Indian Constitution is the longest written Constitution in the world.
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is considered the father of the Indian Constitution, having drafted it with great foresight and vision.
- Jawaharlal Nehru introduced the Objective Resolution, which later became the Preamble of the Constitution.
