Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is annually observed in India on November 26th. This date commemorates the adoption of the Constitution of India on November 26, 1949, and its official enforcement on January 26, 1950.

The significance of this day lies in the establishment of the world's lengthiest written constitution, symbolizing the triumph of democracy. The Constitution Day slogan emphasizes that the glory of justice and the majesty of law are not solely created by the Constitution, courts, or legal officials, but by the men and women comprising society—those who both protect and are protected by the law.

Historical Background of Constitution Day

• Constitution Drafting Process: After India gained independence from British rule on August 15, 1947, a Constituent Assembly was formed to draft a new constitution for the country. The drafting committee, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, worked diligently to create a framework for governance that would ensure justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens.

• Adoption of the Constitution: On November 26, 1949, after nearly three years of debate, discussion, and drafting, the Constitution was finally adopted by the Constituent Assembly. However, it was put into effect on January 26, 1950, a date chosen to honor the Purna Swaraj declaration made by the Indian National Congress in 1930, which called for complete independence from British rule.

• Significance of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Dr. Ambedkar is regarded as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution and is often credited with shaping its progressive vision, which includes provisions for safeguarding the rights of marginalized communities, ensuring democratic governance, and promoting social justice.

Why Constitution Day is Celebrated

Constitution Day was first celebrated in 2015 to honor the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and to highlight his contributions as the chairperson of the drafting committee. The day is meant to remind Indian citizens of the importance of the Constitution and to encourage people to uphold its values.

The celebration of Constitution Day aims to:

1. Raise awareness about the principles and values enshrined in the Constitution.
2. Educate citizens about their rights and duties as laid out in the Constitution.
3. Recognize the contribution of the framers of the Constitution, especially Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
4. Reaffirm the commitment to uphold the ideals of the Constitution, including justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Key Features of the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution is one of the longest and most detailed written constitutions in the world, with 448 articles in 25 parts, 12 schedules, and numerous amendments. Some of its notable features include:

1. Preamble: The Preamble sets forth the guiding principles of the Constitution, declaring India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic and promoting justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

2. Fundamental Rights: Part III of the Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights to all citizens, including the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, protection of life and personal liberty, and protection from discrimination.

3. Directive Principles of State Policy: These principles, laid out in Part IV, serve as guidelines for the government in framing policies and laws to promote social and economic welfare.

4. Fundamental Duties: Added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976, Fundamental Duties encourage citizens to respect the Constitution, the national flag, and national institutions, and to promote harmony, protect the environment, and safeguard public property.

5. Federal Structure with a Strong Center: India has a federal system, but the Constitution provides for a strong central government with powers to intervene in the affairs of states during times of emergency.

6. Parliamentary System: The Constitution establishes a parliamentary system of government, with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government, responsible to the Parliament.

7. Independent Judiciary: The Constitution ensures the independence of the judiciary and provides for the establishment of the Supreme Court, which serves as the highest judicial authority in India. The judiciary has the power to interpret the Constitution and safeguard citizens' rights.

8. Amendability: The Constitution includes provisions for its amendment under Article 368, allowing for flexibility to adapt to changing needs and circumstances while maintaining its core principles.

Significance of Constitution Day

1. Remembrance of the Founders: Constitution Day is an occasion to honor the contributions of those who participated in the drafting of the Constitution, particularly Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Rajendra Prasad, and others.

2. Reflection on Constitutional Values: It is a day to reflect on the values of democracy, secularism, and equality enshrined in the Constitution. It encourages citizens to respect the rule of law and to work toward the collective well-being of society.

3. Awareness of Rights and Responsibilities: Constitution Day promotes awareness of citizens' fundamental rights and their duties. It serves as a reminder that with rights come responsibilities, and that each citizen has a role to play in upholding the democratic framework of the nation.

4. Commitment to Social Justice: Constitution Day also focuses on issues of social justice, particularly the protection of marginalized communities, women’s rights, and the promotion of equality for all citizens, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, or socioeconomic background.

Celebrations and Activities on Constitution Day

On November 26, various events and activities are organized across the country to celebrate Constitution Day:

1. Preamble Reading: In schools, colleges, government institutions, and workplaces, people gather to read the Preamble of the Constitution together. This symbolic activity is meant to reinforce the commitment to the ideals of the Constitution.

2. Educational Programs: Institutions conduct debates, essay competitions, quiz contests, and seminars on the Constitution, democracy, and citizens’ rights and duties.

3. Special Parliamentary Sessions: On Constitution Day, special sessions of Parliament are sometimes held to discuss the Constitution's relevance in contemporary society and the progress India has made in realizing its democratic values.

4. Media Campaigns: Television channels, radio stations, and online platforms broadcast programs on the history and significance of the Constitution, highlighting its framers, key features, and importance in modern India.

5. Exhibitions and Documentaries: Government bodies, such as the Ministry of Law and Justice, organize exhibitions showcasing rare documents and materials from the time of the drafting of the Constitution. Documentaries on Dr. Ambedkar and the drafting process are also aired.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's Role in the Constitution

Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar, often referred to as the Father of the Indian Constitution, played a monumental role in shaping the democratic fabric of India:

1. Champion of Social Justice: As a key figure in the Constituent Assembly, Ambedkar advocated for the protection of socially disadvantaged groups, including Dalits (formerly known as "Untouchables"). His work ensured that the Constitution enshrined equal rights for all, regardless of caste, gender, or religion.

2. Architect of Fundamental Rights: Ambedkar was instrumental in drafting the sections related to Fundamental Rights, ensuring that every citizen was guaranteed rights such as freedom of speech, the right to equality, and protection against exploitation.

3. Advocate for Legal Equality: Ambedkar’s vision of India was one where legal equality would provide the foundation for social and economic equality. His push for affirmative action in the form of reservations for historically oppressed communities continues to influence Indian society today.

Conclusion

Constitution Day is a significant occasion in India, not only for remembering the historical moment when the Indian Constitution was adopted but also for reflecting on the values of democracy, equality, and justice that it upholds. The day emphasizes the role of citizens in safeguarding these values, and it honors the vision of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the framers who laid the foundation for India’s democratic governance.