Rooted in the Gandhian principles the Indian Constitution continues to guide the world’s largest democracy in fostering a harmonious and equitable society
Constitution Day, known as ‘Samvidhan Divas’ in Hindi, is celebrated annually on November 26 in India. This day commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution, which was formally approved by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949. It later came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking the birth of India as a sovereign democratic republic.
In 2015, the Government of India officially recognised November 26 as Constitution Day through a gazette notification issued on November 19. This followed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement during the foundation-laying ceremony of the ‘B R Ambedkar Statue of Equality’ memorial in Mumbai on October 11, 2015.
As India marks the 75th anniversary of the Constitution in 2024, it is a moment to reflect on this transformative document, which serves as the bedrock of the nation’s democracy and inclusivity.
The Vision Behind the Indian Constitution
The Indian Constitution is more than a legal charter; it is a visionary framework that upholds the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It reflects the collective aspirations of a diverse population, drawing inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of truth, non-violence, and grassroots empowerment. Gandhi’s ideals of swaraj (self-rule) emphasised moral values, social equity and the welfare of all, which deeply influenced the Constitution’s framers.
Although Gandhi and Dr BR Ambedkar had differences on certain issues, they shared a commitment to social justice and local self-governance. This shared vision is evident in foundational aspects of the Constitution, such as the Preamble, Directive Principles of State Policy and Fundamental Duties.
The Preamble: Soul of the Constitution
The Preamble encapsulates the essence of the Constitution, emphasising ideals like justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. These values resonate with Gandhi’s lifelong struggle against colonial oppression and social inequality. Historian Judith Brown aptly stated, “Gandhi’s struggle was not just for legal justice but for ethical and humanistic justice that transcends caste, creed and gender.” The Preamble remains a guiding light for India’s pursuit of a just and inclusive society.
Directive Principles: A Vision for Social Equity
Part IV of the Constitution, the Directive Principles of State Policy, articulates a vision of economic equity, social justice, and upliftment of marginalised communities. Gandhi’s influence is evident in provisions like Article 40, which advocates for the Panchayati Raj system, and Article 43, promoting cottage industries. Historian Anthony Parel observed that these principles are “the most visible articulation of Gandhi’s socio-economic vision aimed at eradicating poverty and ensuring dignity.”
Fundamental Duties: Rights and Responsibilities
Mahatma Gandhi emphasised the interconnectedness of rights and duties, asserting that rights derive their meaning from duties well-performed. Reflecting this philosophy, the 42nd Amendment introduced Fundamental Duties in 1976. These duties, such as fostering harmony, protecting the environment, and upholding the dignity of women, align closely with Gandhian principles of non-violence, ecological stewardship, and gender equality. Gandhi’s timeless reminder, “The Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s need, but not every man’s greed,” underlines the importance of responsible citizenship.
Gandhian Values in a Modern Context
As India navigates contemporary challenges, the values rooted in Gandhian philosophy remain profoundly relevant. Nobel laureate Amartya Sen, in ‘The Idea of Justice’, highlights that justice involves removing barriers that prevent marginalised communities from realizing their potential. Gandhi’s vision of Sarvodaya (welfare of all) aligns with this principle, urging inclusive growth and equitable resource distribution.
In geopolitics, Gandhi’s commitment to peace and ‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence) resonates globally. His campaigns, from the Salt March to the Quit India Movement, demonstrated how unity and empowerment can coexist in a diverse society. Historian Ramachandra Guha remarked, “Gandhi’s idea of fraternity, rooted in empathy and non-violence, offers a moral compass for modern democracy.”
Decentralized Governance A cornerstone of Gandhi’s political thought was decentralised governance. He believed true democracy could only be achieved by empowering local communities. The Panchayati Raj system, enshrined in the Constitution, embodies this vision. Similarly, Prime Minister Modi’s initiatives, such as ‘Vocal for Local ‘and ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’, echo Gandhi’s principle of ‘Gram Swaraj’. These programmes aim to promote local entrepreneurship, sustainable development, and self-reliance, elevating India’s global stature while empowering its citizens.
The Role of Citizens and Media
Democracy thrives on active citizen participation. Voting, engaging in public discourse, and addressing civic issues are essential for robust democratic institutions. Equally crucial is the media’s role as the fourth estate, providing checks and balances while safeguarding the freedom of speech guaranteed by the Constitution. Exercising this freedom responsibly ensures accountability and transparency in governance.
A Living Document for a Dynamic Nation
The Indian Constitution, inspired by Gandhian principles, remains a living document that harmonizes individual aspirations with collective well-being. Its relevance extends beyond legal frameworks, addressing issues such as social justice, environmental conservation, and global leadership.
(The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Smriti; views are personal)
