Speaking in the Lok Sabha during the discussion marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi called the Constitution a “document of modern India” deeply rooted in ancient Indian traditions and ideas.
Key Highlights of Rahul Gandhi’s Speech
- Constitution’s Link to Ancient India:
- Rahul Gandhi emphasized that while the Constitution is a modern document, it draws its essence from ancient India.
- He attributed foundational ideas to spiritual and cultural figures such as:
- Shiva, Buddha, Guru Nanak, Kabir, and Mahavir.
- He also credited the Constitution to leaders like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Mahatma Gandhi, and Jawaharlal Nehru.
- “The Constitution could never have been written without ancient India and its ideas,” he stated.
- Criticism of the RSS and Savarkar:
- Gandhi referenced a statement attributed to Savarkar, suggesting that Manusmriti—not the Constitution—was viewed as the foundation for India’s culture and governance.
- He pointed out the contradiction in the BJP’s defense of the Constitution:“When you speak in Parliament about protecting the Constitution, you are ridiculing and defaming Savarkar.”
- Hathras Case and Fear of Injustice:
- Rahul Gandhi recounted his recent visit to Hathras on December 12, where he met the family of the 2020 Hathras gang rape victim.
- He criticized the BJP-led government for failing to deliver justice, noting that:
- The family continues to live in fear.
- The perpetrators allegedly roam freely, contrary to the constitutional principles of justice and equality.
- Gandhi contrasted this situation with the ideas in Manusmriti, saying:“This is written in Manusmriti, but it is not written in the Constitution.”
- He assured that the INDIA bloc would ensure the relocation of the victim’s family if the government failed to act.
Context of the Debate
- The Lok Sabha’s discussion marks the start of the 75th year since the Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949.
- Rahul Gandhi’s remarks come amidst heightened political tensions between the BJP-led NDA government and the INDIA bloc opposition.
BJP’s Expected Response
Given Rahul Gandhi’s sharp critique of the RSS and references to Savarkar, BJP leaders are likely to respond by defending their stance on the Constitution and countering Gandhi’s allegations.
Broader Implications
- Rahul Gandhi’s speech highlights the philosophical divide between the BJP’s ideology and the opposition’s interpretation of the Constitution.
- His references to Manusmriti aim to position the Congress and INDIA bloc as defenders of constitutional values such as justice, equality, and secularism.
- The Hathras case also underscores ongoing concerns about women’s safety and justice under the current administration.
Conclusion
Rahul Gandhi’s remarks linked India’s modern constitutional framework with its ancient traditions while challenging the ideological stance of the BJP and RSS. His critique of the Hathras case further aimed to highlight gaps in governance and justice. The debate on the Constitution reflects ongoing political contestation over its spirit and legacy in contemporary India.