India commemorates the 76th anniversary of the adoption of its Constitution on November 26, a day now officially celebrated as Constitution Day or Samvidhan Divas. This day holds profound significance for every Indian citizen, marking the formal acceptance of the document that lays the foundation for the world's largest democracy.
From National Law Day to Constitution Day
For nearly four decades, November 26 was observed as National Law Day, primarily honoring Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the first Law Minister of independent India and the visionary chairman of the Constitution's Drafting Committee. A significant shift occurred in 2015 when the Government of India officially redesignated the day as 'Constitution Day'. This change was part of the year-long nationwide celebrations marking the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, widely revered as the father and chief architect of the Indian Constitution.
A 2015 press release from the Press Information Bureau clarified the intent, stating the day would serve as a tribute to Ambedkar's seminal role and help promote constitutional values among citizens. While the Constitution was formally adopted on November 26, 1949, it came into effect two months later on January 26, 1950, which is celebrated as Republic Day.
The Epic Journey of Drafting the Constitution
The creation of the Indian Constitution was a monumental task undertaken by the Constituent Assembly. This dedicated body labored for 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to produce the final document. The process was remarkably thorough and democratic.
The assembly debated the draft constitution for 114 days, considering over 7,600 proposed amendments, of which 2,400 were ultimately accepted. This intensive process ensured the document reflected a wide spectrum of opinions and aspirations.
Key Milestones in the Constitution's Adoption
1934: The idea of a Constituent Assembly was first proposed by Manabendra Nath Roy, later becoming an official demand of the Indian National Congress.
1946: The Constituent Assembly was constituted under the Cabinet Mission Plan.
December 9, 1946: The first session convened with 207 members, including nine women, in the Constitution Hall (now Central Hall of Parliament).
December 13, 1946: Jawaharlal Nehru presented the "Objectives Resolution," later adopted as the Preamble.
August 29, 1947: The Drafting Committee was formed, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
November 4, 1948: Dr. Ambedkar presented the first Draft Constitution.
November 26, 1949: The Constitution was formally adopted.
January 24, 1950: Constituent Assembly members signed the final version.
January 26, 1950: The Constitution of India came into effect.
Significant Amendments That Shaped the Nation
The Indian Constitution is a living document, originally featuring 395 Articles, 25 Parts, and 12 Schedules. It has evolved through numerous amendments to address the nation's changing needs.
The Forty-Second Amendment Act, 1976: Often called the "mini-constitution," it added the words 'socialist', 'secular', and 'integrity' to the Preamble. It introduced Fundamental Duties for citizens and significantly shifted the balance of power towards the central government.
The Forty-Fourth Amendment Act, 1978: This act reversed several controversial changes made by the 42nd Amendment. It restored the balance of power, modified emergency provisions to prevent misuse, and reduced the Right to Property from a fundamental right to a legal right.
The Sixty-First Amendment Act, 1989: A landmark for youth empowerment, this amendment lowered the voting age from 21 years to 18 years, bringing a larger segment of the population into the democratic process.
The Eighty-Sixth Amendment Act, 2002: This established education as a fundamental right by inserting Article 21A, mandating free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14 years.
The One-Hundred and First Amendment Act, 2016: This paved the way for the revolutionary Goods and Services Tax (GST), overhauling India's complex indirect tax structure.
Landmark Supreme Court Judgments
The Indian judiciary has played a crucial role in interpreting and upholding the Constitution through several landmark verdicts.
Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): In a historic 7:6 verdict, the Supreme Court established the 'basic structure' doctrine, ruling that Parliament cannot alter the fundamental framework of the Constitution.
Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978): This judgment expanded the scope of the right to life and personal liberty, establishing that any procedure depriving a person of these rights must be just, fair, and reasonable.
Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980): The court reinforced the basic structure doctrine, striking down parts of the 42nd Amendment that gave Parliament unlimited amending power.
Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017): In a unanimous verdict, the Supreme Court recognized the right to privacy as a fundamental right under Article 21.
Associated for Democratic Reforms v. Union of India (2024): The court struck down the Electoral Bonds Scheme, upholding transparency in political funding.
As India celebrates Constitution Day, it not only reflects on the remarkable journey of its supreme law but also looks ahead to the challenges of a complex, diverse society. The Constitution's enduring strength lies in its ability to adapt while preserving the core democratic values that unite the nation, serving as both a protector of rights and a framework for continuous dialogue and progress.
