What’s in Today’s Article?

• Constitution Day (Context, History, Significance, etc.)
• News Summary (Key Highlights of PM Modi and CJI Justice Khanna’s Speeches)

Introduction:

• Constitution Day, or Samvidhan Divas, is celebrated annually on November 26 to honour the adoption of the Constitution of India by the Constituent Assembly on this day in 1949.
• This year marks the 75th anniversary, a momentous occasion reflecting on India’s constitutional journey and its enduring principles.

Historical Context:

• The Constitution of India was adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into effect on January 26, 1950, declaring India a sovereign, democratic republic.
• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chief architect of the Constitution, expressed both optimism and apprehension about India's ability to preserve its independence and maintain the values enshrined in the Constitution.

Significance of November 26:

• Declaration as Constitution Day:
• The Government of India officially recognized November 26 as Constitution Day in 2015, following an announcement by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• The day aims to raise awareness among citizens about the Constitution and its core values of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity.

• Ambedkar’s Vision:
• Dr. Ambedkar famously stated, “If things go wrong under the new Constitution, the reason will not be that we had a bad Constitution. What we will have to say is, that Man was vile.” His words underscore the importance of human conduct in the success of constitutional governance. 

News Summary:

• India commemorated a historic milestone today, the 26^th November, 2024, marking the 75^thanniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India. 
• The President of India along with Vice- President, Prime Minister, Speaker, Ministers, MPs and other dignitaries, attended the celebrations of the Constitution Day, 2024 in Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan.

Summary of PM Modi’s Speech at the Constitution Day celebrations held in New Delhi:

• Tributes and Significance: Celebrated the 75th Constitution Day, paid homage to Constituent Assembly members and victims of the 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks, affirming India's stance against terrorism.
• Constitution’s Adaptability: Described the Constitution as a "living, evolving guide" adaptable to India’s challenges and highlighted its relevance, including in Jammu & Kashmir post-Article 370 abrogation.
• Vision of a Developed India (Viksit Bharat): Emphasized socio-economic justice, citing welfare achievements like 53 crore bank accounts, 4 crore pucca houses, 10 crore gas connections, and 12 crore tap water connections.
• Infrastructure and Connectivity: Achievements include 2.5 crore electrified households, 4G/5G connectivity in remote areas, underwater broadband in Andaman & Nicobar, and digitized land records under PM Swamitva Yojana.
• Modern Infrastructure Development: Reviewed and accelerated ₹18 lakh crore infrastructure projects via the PRAGATI platform for timely completion and national progress.
• National Unity: Concluded with a call for honesty and national interest, emphasizing the spirit of "Nation First" to uphold the Constitution for generations.

Summary of Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna at the Constitution Day celebrations:

• Defense of the Judiciary: Judges are appointed to ensure impartial decisions, free from external pressures. Warned against the risks of judges campaigning for votes.
• Judicial Independence: Judicial independence acts as a bridge for coordination among branches while maintaining separateness. Judges are guided solely by the Constitution and the law.
• Balancing Criticism: Judges face mixed reactions to their decisions and benefit from constructive feedback for efficiency and accountability.
• Transparency and Accountability: The judiciary values openness to identify inefficiencies and improve systems. Emphasized being public-centric and transparent.
• Global Standing: India’s constitutional courts are globally regarded as powerful but face diverse opinions about their approach to mandates and status quo.
• Pendency of Cases: Highlighted the large backlog of cases, with progress in case clearance rates:
• District courts: 101.74% (2024).
• Supreme Court: 97%.
• Judiciary’s Role: Judges prioritize serving the public, fostering transparency, and addressing critiques effectively.