Constitution Day of India 2024

Constitution Day of India, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is observed annually on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. This day marks the foundational step in establishing India as a sovereign, democratic republic and highlights the values enshrined in the Constitution, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Key Dates and History:

• November 26, 1949: The Indian Constitution was adopted by the Constituent Assembly.
• January 26, 1950: The Constitution came into effect, which is celebrated as Republic Day.
• 2015: The Government of India officially declared November 26 as Constitution Day under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, coinciding with the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution. Prior to this, November 26 was observed as Law Day.

Significance of Constitution Day 2024:

Constitution Day serves as a reminder of the core values that the Indian Constitution upholds:

• Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity: These ideals form the bedrock of India’s democratic system.
• Promoting Constitutional Values: The observance raises awareness about the Constitution’s ideals, citizens' rights, and responsibilities.
• Honoring Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Vision: Dr. Ambedkar is often called the "father" of the Indian Constitution. His leadership and contributions were pivotal in shaping a just and inclusive framework for the country. He famously said, "The Constitution is not a mere lawyer’s document; it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of the age."
• Encouraging Civic Engagement: The day fosters greater civic responsibility, urging citizens to actively participate in democratic processes and contribute to nation-building.

Constitution Day: A Reflection of India’s Journey:

This day is a celebration of India’s remarkable transformation into a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. It reaffirms the country’s commitment to democratic ideals and national unity. The Constitution Day observance underscores the efforts of the Constituent Assembly, which laid the foundation for India's governance and legislative framework.

In 2024, Constitution Day will be observed on Tuesday, November 26. The day encourages citizens to reflect on the principles of democracy and social justice and highlights the ongoing importance of protecting these values in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.

Difference Between Constitution Day and Republic Day:

While both Constitution Day and Republic Day are significant in India's history, they focus on different milestones:

Aspect

Constitution Day

Republic Day

Date

November 26

January 26

Significance

Adoption of the Constitution

Implementation of the Constitution

Focus

Constitutional awareness

Celebration of national identity

“Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman” Campaign:

The Vice President of India launched the "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" Campaign on January 24, 2024, at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the Indian Constitution and educate citizens on their Fundamental Rights and Duties. This initiative is designed to empower citizens by increasing knowledge about their rights and access to justice.

Highlights of the Campaign:

• Simplifying the Constitution: The campaign aims to make the Constitution easier to understand and promote awareness about citizens' Fundamental Rights and Duties.
• Access to Justice: Focuses on educating citizens on how to approach the right authorities for justice, with campaigns like Sabko Nyay and Har Ghar Nyay, ensuring access to legal support.
• Uplifting Marginalized Communities: Initiatives like the Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan aim to uplift rural and marginalized communities, helping them access government benefits.
• Online Portal: A dedicated online portal will be established with resources such as quizzes, discussion forums, and interactive tools to spread awareness about constitutional values and promote active participation in nation-building.

The Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman campaign is a significant step toward ensuring that all citizens, particularly in rural areas, understand their constitutional rights and duties, contributing to the strengthening of India’s democracy.