Why in news?

PM Modi proposed 11 resolutions which include upholding existing reservations for marginalised sections but strongly opposing any religion-based quota.

He proposed these resolutions while replying to a two-day debate in Lok Sabha on the 'Glorious Journey of 75 Years of the Constitution of India'.

What’s in today’s article?

• Special Constitution Debate: Marking 75 Years of Adoption
• 11 Pledges for the Nation’s Future
• Conclusion

Special Constitution Debate: Marking 75 Years of Adoption

• Special Constitution Debate
  • A two-day special session in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha commemorates 75 years since the Indian Constitution’s adoption on November 26, 1949.
  • The debate reflects on the evolution of the Constitution and addresses ideological conflicts, including judicial-legislative balance, religion in public life, and fundamental rights.
• Why convene a Constitution debate now?
  • The impetus for this special session stems from the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s adoption by the Constituent Assembly.
  • The decision to hold the debate followed extensive discussions between Parliamentary Affairs Minister and floor leaders of various political parties.
  • This debate provides the government a chance to demonstrate its commitment to constitutional principles while engaging with ongoing discussions about India’s legal and governance systems.
  • Central to this is an ideological conflict over varying interpretations of the Constitution, including the balance between the judiciary and legislature, the role of religion in public life, and the evolving application of fundamental rights.

11 Pledges for the Nation’s Future

• Citizen Duties: Every individual and the government must adhere to their duties to uphold the nation's progress.
• Inclusive Development: Aimed at fostering regional and community-based growth aligned with the vision of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.
• Zero Tolerance for Corruption: Modi emphasized the need to reject social acceptance of corruption.
• Pride in Laws and Traditions: Citizens were urged to respect India’s laws, regulations, and heritage while shedding colonial mindsets.
• Opposition to Religion-Based Quotas: Modi reaffirmed commitment to existing reservations but called for resistance against introducing religion-based quotas.
• Women-Led Development: Envisioning India as a global leader in empowering women.
• Regional Growth for National Development: Advocated the mantra, “Development of the nation through development of states.”
• Respect for the Constitution: Stressed the importance of protecting the Constitution from misuse for political gains.
• Dynastic Politics and Meritocracy: Urged a shift from nepotism to merit-based governance.
• Pride in Indian Heritage: Promoted fostering pride in India’s cultural and historical legacy.
• Unity in Diversity: Reaffirmed the vision of Ek Bharat, Shrestha Bharat and collective national efforts.

Conclusion

While PM Modi’s 11 resolutions aimed to outline a roadmap for India’s future, they faced sharp criticism from the Opposition, who dismissed them as rhetoric lacking substance. The debate underscored deep political divides over governance, reservations, and corruption narratives.