In a significant demonstration in Ranchi, the Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee organized a ‘Save Constitution Day’ event to rally support for India’s foundational law. Presided over by Pradesh Congress Chief Keshav Mahto Kamlesh, the gathering at the old assembly hall underscored the constitution’s vital role in upholding democratic principles. The event began with solemn respect paid to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of the constitution, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad, its first chairman. The collective reading of the Preamble concluded the proceedings.
Keshav Mahto Kamlesh delivered a key address, emphasizing the constitution as the very essence of India’s democracy. He pointed out that the Preamble encapsulates the constitution’s fundamental spirit and acknowledged the significant contributions of personalities from Jharkhand to its drafting, highlighting the state’s unique place in history. Kamlesh called for a united front against forces seeking to undermine constitutional institutions and alter the constitution’s core, vowing that the Congress would fiercely defend reservation policies.
Finance Minister Dr. Radha Krishna Kishore elaborated on the constitution’s commitment to equal rights for all citizens, irrespective of their background. He criticized the central government’s approach, stating that policy-making should be guided by constitutional principles, but instead, power has become concentrated in a few hands. The Minister decried the rise of Hindutva rhetoric and the deprivation of rights for Scheduled Castes and Tribes, urging the BJP to examine its commitment to the underprivileged. He assured that the Congress would not permit the dismantling of reservation systems.
Former Finance Minister Dr. Rameshwar Oraon addressed the election slogan aiming for ‘400 paar,’ interpreting it as a move to change the constitution. He explained that while amendments are possible, the basic structure, as affirmed by the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case, must remain inviolable. Oraon suggested that the RSS, which he claimed regards Manusmriti as its constitution, is influencing the discourse around reviewing the Indian constitution, citing remarks by its chief. He praised the socialist ethos and national interest embedded in the Preamble. Oraon also accused the central government of deliberately obstructing the progress of non-BJP states by withholding financial assistance, which he called a constitutional obligation.
Subodh Kant Sahay, a former Union Minister, strongly criticized the present central government for its alleged efforts to erode the secular foundations of India. He expressed dismay over the perceived manipulation of the electoral process, noting that India’s once-celebrated election system is now facing serious questions. Professor Amar Choudhary discussed how the constitution ensures social justice and upliftment for marginalized communities through affirmative action, leading to improved socio-economic outcomes for Dalits, backward classes, and tribal populations.