New Delhi: President Droupadi Murmu addressed both houses of Parliament on Constitution Day, emphasizing the historic significance of the Constitution and its role in shaping India. She called the Constitution a “progressive and inclusive” document. She said that the Constitution upholds the ideals of justice, freedom, equality and fraternity.
A program titled ‘hamara samvidhan, hamara swabhiman’ was organized in Delhi to mark 75 years since the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The event, held in the Central Hall of the Constitution House, was attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, among other dignitaries.
Our Constitution is a living and progressive document: President Murmu
President Murmu said, “Our Constitution is a living and progressive document. It is an ideal for other countries. The goals of social justice and women empowerment have been achieved through it, especially with the Nari Shakti Vandan Act.”
The President also released a commemorative coin and a postage stamp to mark the occasion. She paid tribute to the members of the Constituent Assembly, saying, “The Constitution is the foundation stone of democracy. It is the most sacred book of the country. India is the mother of democracy.”
Vice President highlights democratic values
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar also addressed the gathering, quoting Dr BR Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution. He cautioned against divisive politics, saying, “Our independence will be jeopardized if parties place creed above country. Disturbance as a strategy threatens democracy. It is time to restore the sanctity of democratic temples through constructive dialogue.”
He praised the Constitution for ensuring fundamental rights and providing equal opportunities to all. Calling it a historic moment, he said, “The Constitution of India is being praised all over the world.”
Speaker Om Birla reflects on Constitution Day
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla shared the historical background of celebrating Constitution Day on November 26, which was initiated in 2015 with the inspiration of Prime Minister Modi.
“Our Constitution is the result of the civilization of our ancestors. It is the largest written Constitution in the world. Today, it completes 75 years, and the country is expressing gratitude toward it,” said Birla. He added, “Crores of Indians are celebrating Constitution Day today. Under the leadership of the President, the entire country will take a pledge by reciting the Preamble of the Constitution.”
Birla also highlighted the contributions of the constituent assembly members, saying, “In this Central Hall, after about three years of hard work, they made a Constitution binding the geographical and social diversities of the country into one thread.”