Indian Leaders Unite on Constitution Day: Modi Calls for Strengthening Values While Opposition Pledges Protection

Political leaders across India shared their reflections on Constitution Day, which is celebrated annually on November 26 to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution in 1949.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of strengthening constitutional values, while Opposition figures including Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee committed to protecting the document's principles.

In his social media message, PM Modi stated: "On Constitution Day, we pay tribute to the framers of our Constitution. Their vision and foresight continue to motivate us in our pursuit of building a Viksit Bharat. Our Constitution gives utmost importance to human dignity, equality and liberty. While it empowers us with rights, it also reminds us of our duties as citizens, which we should always try to fulfil. These duties are the foundation of a strong democracy."

The Prime Minister concluded by urging citizens to "reiterate our commitment to strengthening constitutional values through our actions."

Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, described the Constitution as more than just a document, calling it "a sacred promise made to every citizen." He elaborated that this promise guarantees equality, justice, and respect to all citizens regardless of religion, caste, region, language, or economic status.

The Congress leader characterized the Constitution as "the shield of the poor and the oppressed, their power and every citizen's voice," adding that "as long as the Constitution is safe, every citizen is safe." Gandhi pledged to defend the Constitution against attacks, stating, "Protecting it is my duty, and I will stand in the way of every blow directed at it."

West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress leader Mamata Banerjee paid homage to the Constitution's framers, particularly its chief architect, BR Ambedkar. She described the Constitution as "the backbone of our nation that masterfully weaves together the immense diversity of our cultures, languages, and communities into an integrated, federal whole."

In what appeared to be criticism of the central government, Banerjee remarked, "Now, when democracy is at stake, when secularism is in an endangered situation, when federalism is being bulldozed, at this critical time, we must protect the valuable guidance that our Constitution provides."

The occasion of Constitution Day saw leaders across the political spectrum reflecting on the document's significance in India's governance and democratic traditions.