By: Pupuji Koul
The nation observes Constitution Day every year on 26 November to remember the importance of the Constitution and to renew its commitment to follow the principles written in this supreme document. The Constitution is the guiding force for our democratic and secular system of government and for all citizens. Constitution Day reminds every Indian to follow the laws of the land, respect the values of the Constitution, and understand both rights and duties. Rights and duties go together like two sides of the same coin. We should not only demand our rights but also fulfil our duties to maintain balance in society and live a meaningful life in a democracy. The importance of Constitution Day cannot be ignored because the Constitution is like the lifeline of India’s parliamentary democracy. This day also reminds us that the Constitution deserves our highest respect. Many people consider it as sacred as a holy book because it shows us the path of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Therefore, it is the responsibility of every citizen to honour the Constitution and not do anything that is against its spirit. Constitution Day is celebrated every year on 26 November because on this day in 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution of India. Although it was adopted on 26 November 1949, the Constitution came into effect on 26 January 1950, and that is why we celebrate Republic Day on January 26 every year.
The celebration of Constitution Day across the country helps us remember the journey of how the Constitution was prepared. The Indian Constitution originally had 395 articles, 22 parts, and 8 schedules. It contained around 1,45,000 words and is the longest written constitution in the world. Today, the Constitution has grown to 470 articles, 25 parts, 12 schedules, and several appendices due to amendments added over the years. Constitution Day is not a public holiday, but it is marked by various programmes in government offices, schools, colleges, and many other institutions. On this day, educational institutions organize speeches, debates, quizzes, discussions, and other activities to help students understand the Constitution better. These programmes help young people become aware of their rights, duties, and the values that shape our democracy. The decision to celebrate 26 November as Constitution Day was announced by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on 19 November 2015. The year 2015 was the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who is known as the chief architect of the Indian Constitution. As a tribute to him, the Government of India decided to observe Constitution Day every year. The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, officially declared 26 November as Constitution Day on 11 October 2015 while laying the foundation stone of the Ambedkar Statue of Equality in Mumbai.
The Constituent Assembly set up a Drafting Committee on 29 August 1947 under the chairmanship of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar to prepare the draft constitution. The Assembly worked with great dedication for almost three years to complete this historic task. It held eleven sessions over a period of 165 days. Out of these, 114 days were spent discussing and debating the draft Constitution. The members considered as many as 7,635 amendments, out of which 2,473 were accepted after detailed discussion. Dr. Rajendra Prasad, who later became the first President of India, served as the President of the Constituent Assembly. The work of drafting the Constitution was a huge responsibility, and the Constituent Assembly completed it with great care and vision so that independent India would have a strong foundation. Earlier, 26 November was celebrated as Law Day, but after 2015 it came to be known as Constitution Day. The day was chosen not only to mark the adoption of the Constitution but also to spread the thoughts and ideas of Dr. Ambedkar. The year 2021 also marked the 131st birth anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar, and many programmes were organized across the country to remember his contribution. Different government departments, schools, colleges, and universities celebrate this day by organizing debates, discussions, seminars, and activities that highlight the significance of the Constitution. These programmes help spread awareness and deepen the understanding of constitutional values among people, especially students.
Educational institutions celebrate Constitution Day with great enthusiasm. Teachers explain the importance of the Constitution in shaping the country’s future. Students learn how the Constitution guides the government, protects citizens, and ensures justice and equality for all. By learning about the Constitution, young people prepare themselves to become responsible citizens, future leaders, and active participants in democracy. They learn that the Constitution defines how the government works, what powers it has, and what limits are placed on it. These limits are important because they protect citizens from any misuse of power. The Constitution ensures that the government can create conditions for justice, fairness, and equality in society. Constitution Day reminds every citizen about the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It encourages us to understand our rights and also to follow our fundamental duties. The Indian Constitution has stood the test of time and has guided the nation through many challenges. It has helped strengthen democracy and given direction to the country’s progress. The Constitution protects the interests of all citizens and ensures that everyone is treated equally before the law. Its principles help build a strong and united nation. To conclude, the Constitution of India is not just a legal document; it is the foundation of our democracy and the guiding light for 135 crore citizens. The significance of Constitution Day cannot be overstated. It inspires every Indian to learn about the Constitution, follow its principles, and live by its values. The day encourages us to respect our rights, fulfil our duties, and work together to create a society based on equality, justice, and fraternity. Let us take inspiration from the Constitution and commit ourselves to the values of secularism, equality, and social justice. By understanding and following the Constitution, we can become responsible citizens and contribute to the progress and unity of our democracy.
