Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked Samvidhan Diwas (Constitution Day) on Wednesday by hailing the Constitution of India as a sacred and guiding document for the nation’s progress. He asserted that every action undertaken by citizens and leaders must strengthen the Constitution and further national goals and interests.
In a letter addressed to the nation, the Prime Minister reflected on the document’s impact, stating that the power of the Constitution enabled “a person like me, coming from a humble and economically disadvantaged family, to serve as the Head of the Government continuously for over 24 years.”
Fulfilling the Framers’ Vision
Modi stressed the importance of civic responsibility, stating: “It is our responsibility to fulfil the dreams envisioned by the framers of our Constitution. When we work with this sense of duty, our nation’s social and economic progress will multiply manifold…”
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to criticize the Opposition, accusing them of previously failing to accord the Constitution its due respect. He recalled the year 2010 when the Constitution completed 60 years, lamenting that the occasion “did not receive the attention it deserved at a national level.”
By contrast, he highlighted his government’s actions, including the organization of a Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra in Gujarat to show collective gratitude. He also noted that his government launched nationwide programmes and organized a special session of Parliament to commemorate the Constitution’s 75th anniversary, which saw record public participation.
Remembering Key Architects and Milestones
Modi honored the figures behind the monumental document:
- He remembered all the inspiring members of the Constituent Assembly, presided over by Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
- He specifically recalled the efforts and “remarkable foresight” of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, who chaired the Drafting Committee.
The Prime Minister stated that this year’s Samvidhan Diwas is special as 2025 also marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and freedom fighter Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
Unity and Fundamental Duties
Modi connected the Constitution’s principles to the legacies of these freedom fighters:
- Sardar Patel: His visionary leadership ensured India’s political unification. Modi stated that Patel’s “inspiration and courage of conviction” guided the government’s steps to act against Article 370 and 35(A), ensuring the Constitution of India is now fully in force in Jammu & Kashmir, granting all constitutional rights to the people, especially women and marginalized communities.
- Bhagwan Birsa Munda: His life continues to inspire India’s resolve to ensure justice, dignity, and empowerment for tribal communities.
The Prime Minister reiterated the significance of the Fundamental Duties (enshrined in Article 51A), stating that all these milestones remind us of the primacy of our duties. He quoted Mahatma Gandhi, who believed that “a duty well performed creates a corresponding right.”
Vision for 2049
Looking ahead, Modi noted that while India will mark 100 years of freedom from colonial rule in over two decades, 2049 will mark a hundred years since the Constitution was adopted. He stressed that the policies and decisions made today will shape the lives of generations to come.
He concluded by urging every citizen to strengthen the Constitution by carrying out their duties with full capability and dedication, emphasizing that it is the duty of every citizen to never miss the opportunity to vote.