75 years ago, India got its Constitution. To commemorate the day, the government set a day apart as India’s Constitution Day. Have we lived up to its values and spirit? The answer may be yes and no. India has upheld the core framework of the Constitution—regular elections, an independent judiciary, a functioning federal system, and peaceful transfers of power. Fundamental rights, parliamentary democracy, and judicial review continue to operate and evolve.
But somewhere, in short phases, as during the Emergency, we have also strained some constitutional promises. In more recent times, weaknesses in federalism have shown up over time. While the ruling dispensation has avowed its deep commitment, again and again, the Opposition has described this allegiance as confined to when it suits the government only. They cite restrictions on civil liberties, delays in justice delivery, and uneven protection of minority rights that have tested the spirit of the Constitution. Within the region, our resilience has been evident, as we have witnessed so much turmoil within the region elsewhere. India has stood tall.
In short, a day to dedicate ourselves fully and totally. For one and all. It is the only mandate that is time tested, dynamic, and sustainable for the country to live by. It is the Bible, the Gita, the Holy book for all, and the more we adhere to it, the stronger we will be as a nation.
