An approaching milestone in Constitutional Governance

With November 26 marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India, this milestone serves as an opportunity to reflect on the core values that have shaped India’s constitutional governance and its impact on democratic culture.

Core Constitutional Values

• Respect for Democratic Institutions: The Constitution was adopted in 1949 when life expectancy was around 32 years, highlighting significant social and economic progress. The consistent voter turnout, including 65.79% in the 2024 elections, reflects the public's respect for democratic institutions.
• Smooth Transition of Power: India's political landscape has seen diverse parties and leaders transition power seamlessly, emphasizing the electorate's understanding of governance. This commitment to peaceful power transitions, despite electoral rivalries, showcases a mature democratic tradition.
• Protection of Rights and Freedoms: The Constitution prioritizes fundamental rights, with courts established to safeguard individual freedoms. The framers, mindful of the state’s potential overreach, enshrined these rights, which have been further reinforced over time, reflecting a deep commitment to individual liberties.

Federalism and the Role of Civil Society

• Federalism as Governance: Recognizing India's diversity, the framers embedded federalism within the Constitution, allowing for autonomy and special privileges for different states. This framework promotes equity and inclusivity while facilitating the emergence of regional political parties.
• Role of Media: The Indian media, through its diverse representation, has played a crucial role in fostering democratic engagement. Despite challenges, the media’s capacity to inform and engage the electorate has been instrumental in promoting transparency and accountability.
• Celebrating Constitutional Governance: The successful establishment of a national identity rooted in constitutional ideals demonstrates India's resilience against skepticism about its unity. This 75-year journey highlights the Constitution as a catalyst for social and political consciousness.

Practice Question

Q. Discuss the core constitutional values that have shaped India's democratic culture over the past 75 years, and evaluate their significance in contemporary governance.