Why Is Constitution Debate Being Held Today? Know The Significance

The Lok Sabha will hold a two-day debate starting at noon to commemorate 75 years since the adoption of the Constitution. It comes at a time when the BJP and Congress have engaged in a war of words on a few key issues.

While the BJP has targeted the Congress, accusing Sonia Gandhi of having links with George Soros, the Congress has slammed the ruling party over the US indictment of Adani.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will initiate proceedings for the BJP. Several MPs from the ruling party and its allies are expected to participate, including HD Kumaraswamy, Shrikant Shinde, Jitan Manjhi, and Shambhavi Choudhary. Their contributions will add diverse perspectives to the discussion.

The Significance Of Debate Held Today

The Constitution debate is scheduled today to honour the 75th anniversary of its adoption. The Constituent Assembly adopted India's Constitution on November 26, 1949, which came into effect on January 26, 1950. Since 2015, November 26 has been celebrated annually as Constitution Day or Samvidhan Divas.

The Constituent Assembly first convened on December 9, 1946, with 207 members attending. Initially composed of 389 members, its strength was reduced to 299 after Independence and Partition. The assembly spent over three years drafting the Constitution, dedicating more than 114 days solely to discussing its content.

Drafting Process and Influences

The drafting process drew from various sources, including other countries' constitutions. Amendments were made to tailor provisions to India's needs at that time. A significant influence was the Government of India Act of 1935, which introduced bicameralism and direct elections in certain provinces.

On December 13, 1946, Nehru proposed the "Objectives Resolution," later adopted as the Preamble on January 22, 1947. This encapsulated the fundamental philosophy of India's Constitution. These foundational elements continue to shape India's democratic framework today.

Political Context and Implications

The debate gains importance against allegations from Opposition parties about threats to the Constitution under BJP's leadership at the Centre. Congress has actively campaigned nationwide with these claims. Rahul Gandhi notably used a pocket-sized Constitution during speeches in previous campaigns.