25 January 2025 : The Hindu Editorial Analysis

1. Foundational values, the journey of the Indian state

(Source – The Hindu, International Edition – Page No. – 6)

Introduction and the Importance of the Constitution

• India adopted its Constitution after nearly three years of debate in the Constituent Assembly.
• The Republic officially came into force on January 26, 1950.
• In his closing address on November 25, 1949, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar highlighted the challenges ahead, especially questioning whether Indians would prioritize the nation over personal or community interests.
• These reflections remain relevant as we evaluate India’s journey and plan for the future.

Federalism and Constitutional Debates

• Recent issues highlight debates over India’s federal structure, with disputes between State governments and Governors reaching the Supreme Court.
• Discussions around simultaneous elections and the neglect of regional languages have raised concerns about federal principles.
• Fiscal federalism remains contentious, with States grappling with the dual system of the Finance Commission and the GST Act.
• The upcoming delimitation exercise could further challenge the Union-State balance, particularly for States that have controlled their population growth.
• Although the word ‘federal’ does not appear in the Constitution, Dr. Ambedkar clarified that the Centre and States are co-equal except during emergencies.
• Judicial decisions, starting from the S.R. Bommai vs Union of India (1994) case, have affirmed federalism as part of the Constitution’s basic structure.

The Challenge of an Unequal Democracy

• The ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity remain crucial for India’s development as a social democracy.
• Critics argue that stringent laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act have led to the perception of a police state.
• Economic and social inequality persists as a significant challenge, threatening democratic ideals.
• Dr. Ambedkar had warned that inequality could destabilize democracy and emphasized the importance of fraternity in overcoming caste divisions.
• Despite progress through social and political movements, caste continues to influence merit and success, indicating the need for further efforts.

Safeguarding the Constitution

• Some groups propose replacing the Constitution with an Indic framework based on Hindu dharmic principles.
• Such suggestions undermine the contributions of the Constituent Assembly and the nation-building efforts of the last 75 years.
• Instead of revising the Constitution, the focus should be on defending democratic principles and adhering to constitutional values.

The Role of Constitutional Guardians

• Dr. Ambedkar’s vision highlights the need for individuals who prioritize the nation over personal interests.
• Judges, bureaucrats, politicians, activists, journalists, and citizens must act as guardians of democratic principles.
• By fulfilling their responsibilities, they can help India achieve the promises of the Constitution and ensure its enduring relevance.

Conclusion

• India’s journey over 75 years highlights progress and ongoing challenges in upholding constitutional values.
• Safeguarding democracy requires collective responsibility from all citizens and institutions.