“The 70 years of the constitution have brought a mixed sense of joy, excellence and conclusion to us. This joy is for the fact that the spirit of the Constitution has been steadfast and unshakable. Even if there were such efforts ever, the countrymen have foiled those attempts together. The Constitution has not been allowed to be harmed ever. We have definitely registered the excellence due to the strength of our Constitution and we have been able to move towards Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat. We have brought several reforms within the ambit of the Constitution. And the conclusion is that the Constitution is the one and only way for the progress of this huge and diverse India, for the new future, for the New India. This is the only way the spirit of the Constitution is intact. Our Constitution is the greatest and the most sacred text for us. It is such a book that encompasses our life, our society, our traditions, our beliefs, our behaviour and our ethos! There are solutions to many challenges as well. Our Constitution is so broad because it has kept its windows open for outside light. And moreover, the light inside has also been given an opportunity to ignite more brightly.”
– PM Narendra Modi at joint session of Parliament on 70th Constitution Day, 26 November 2019
The Indian Constitution is more than a legal document—it is the very soul of India. It is a blueprint that binds 140 crore people, diverse in their languages, cultures, and beliefs, into one unified nation. Serving as both a framework for governance and an equaliser for society, it is the bedrock of India’s democracy, empowering citizens to pursue justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. For the past 75 years, it has been ever-evolving as it accommodates change while retaining its essence, ensuring that India marches forward as a vibrant, resilient democracy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s life and political journey are proof of his deep respect for this living document, which he reveres as the most sacred text guiding India’s future.
A Boy’s Dream to Serve the Nation
Narendra Modi’s story began in the small town of Vadnagar, Gujarat. Growing up in modest circumstances, he dreamt of serving his nation. Over the years, his rise from a young boy to the Prime Minister of the world’s largest democracy reflects an unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Constitution. Dr B.R. Ambedkar, the principal architect of this foundational document, has been a constant source of inspiration for PM Modi. Babasaheb’s vision of social justice, empowerment, and inclusivity is deeply embedded in PM Modi’s governance philosophy, driving his efforts to ensure that no one is left behind.
The Constitution: PM Modi’s Lifelong Commitment
As early as 1999, Narendra Modi expressed his deep connection to the Constitution in a personal diary entry commemorating its 50th anniversary. He wrote, “What will move our nation forward—our duties or our rights? How can the next century become a mass movement for nation-building?”. This reflection set the tone for his belief in the Constitution as not just a document of rights but a call to duty for every Indian citizen.
In 2010, to mark 60 years of the Constitution, then-Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi led the Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra. This historic procession in Surendranagar featured a massive replica of the Constitution atop an elephant, symbolising its central role in India’s democracy. More than 15,000 people joined this celebration of constitutional ideals. CM Narendra Modi’s message was clear: the Constitution is not just a historical document—it is a living force that drives India’s progress and unites its people.
Recognising the need for the Constitution to reach every citizen, CM Narendra Modi released the Gujarati version, ‘Bharat Nu Samvidhan’, in 2011. By translating this monumental document into local languages, he ensured that its spirit and principles were accessible to every Indian, empowering citizens to understand and engage with the laws that govern them. In 2015, Prime Minister Modi declared November 26 as Constitution Day. The day is not only a tribute to the adoption of the Constitution but also a moment to reflect on its values and their role in shaping modern India.
Linking it to the anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, PM Modi emphasised the resilience of India’s democratic framework, which stands tall in the face of adversity. He frequently reminds citizens that the Constitution is both a shield and a sword, protecting rights while empowering action.
In a symbolic move, the old Parliament building was renamed Samvidhan Sadan, preserving its sanctity as the place where the Constitution was adopted. This renaming reflects Modi’s belief that the Constitution is not bound by time or place—it is the enduring light that illuminates India’s path.
The Constitution in the New Parliament
“This session of Parliament is special in many ways, with the most significant aspect being the 75-year journey of our Constitution, as it steps into its 75th year. This is a momentous occasion for democracy. Tomorrow, we will collectively begin the celebration of the 75th year of our Constitution in the Constitution Hall. The Constitution framers debated every point in great detail while drafting the Constitution, resulting in this excellent document. A significant pillar of this is our Parliament and its members. It is essential for Parliament to engage in healthy discussions where as many people as possible contribute.”
– PM Narendra Modi’s the at the beginning of Winter Session of Parliament, 25 November, 2024
In the newly constructed Parliament building, PM Modi has ensured that the Constitution occupies a place of honour. The dedicated Constitution Hall and Gallery showcases the journey of India’s foundational document, inspiring generations to uphold its principles. PM Modi’s act of bowing to the Constitution in Parliament’s Central Hall before assuming his second and third terms as Prime Minister further underscores his reverence for this guiding text.
The renaming of Parliament’s old building as Samvidhan Sadan and the inauguration of the Constitution Hall in the new Parliament building are just some of the symbolic acts that Prime Minister Modi has undertaken to honour the 75-year journey of the Constitution. These steps, along with various reforms, highlight India’s continued commitment to the Constitution’s principles.
One Nation, One Constitution: Abrogation of Article 370
PM Modi’s commitment to unifying India under the Constitution found its most powerful expression in the abrogation of Article 370. On January 26, 1992, despite the rampant threats from terrorists, Narendra Modi and Dr. Murli Manohar Joshi remained undeterred, completing the Ekta Yatra from Kanyakumari to Kashmir. This powerful moment unfolded as they, along with other Ekta Yatris, reached Lal Chowk in Srinagar on Republic Day. It was a moment of immense patriotism and national pride, as Narendra Modi and Murli Manohar Joshi, with unwavering resolve, fulfilled the oath taken at Kanyakumari to unite India. Once, the tricolour had been desecrated in this very place, but on this day, it was unfurled with full pride and dignity. The nationwide Ekta Yatra started from the iconic Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari, spanning across the length of the country, culminating in Kashmir, reaffirming the belief that “Ek Desh, Mein Do Vidhan, Do Nishan, Do Pradhan Nahi Chalenge.”
The landmark decision of the abrogation of Article 370 brought Jammu and Kashmir under the full ambit of Indian law, reinforcing the principle of “One Nation, One Constitution.”
Babasaheb Ambedkar: The Spirit of Inclusivity
Dr Ambedkar’s vision of social justice resonates deeply with PM Modi’s governance. In his book, Samajik Samrasta, he emphasised the need for inclusive development, ensuring no citizen is left behind.
Prime Minister Modi has honoured Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s legacy by developing the Panchteerth, five key sites dedicated to his life and contributions. These include Mhow, his birthplace, which is being developed as a major pilgrimage site; London, where he studied, now being preserved to celebrate his educational journey; Deeksha Bhoomi in Nagpur, where he embraced Buddhism in 1956, recognised as a significant Buddhist pilgrimage centre; Mahaparinirvan Sthal in Delhi, where he passed away, with a national memorial showcasing his life; and Chaitya Bhoomi in Mumbai, his cremation site, which attracts thousands annually. Additionally, the Dr. Ambedkar International Centre, inaugurated in New Delhi in 2017, serves as a research hub aimed at addressing socio-economic inequalities, further solidifying his legacy. These efforts are not mere tributes—they are a continuation of Ambedkar’s mission to create a society rooted in equality and empowerment.
Ensuring Samajik Nyay
PM Modi’s policies are rooted in the constitutional ideal of justice. His government has strengthened the SC/ST Atrocities Act and granted constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes, addressing long-standing demands for equality. Schemes like MUDRA Yojana, Stand-Up India, and PM Awas Yojana are transforming lives, focusing significantly on SC/ST/OBC communities. These initiatives embody the principle of empowerment, ensuring that every Indian has the opportunity to thrive.
In the last decade, key constitutional amendments have strengthened social justice and governance in India. The 103rd Amendment (2019) introduced 10% reservation for Economically Weaker Sections, while the 104th (2019) extended SC/ST reservations in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. The 105th (2021) restored state powers to identify Socially and Educationally Backward Classes, and the 106th (2023) introduced one-third reservation for women in legislative bodies. Other amendments included the 101st (2016) for GST, the 102nd (2018) for the National Commission for Backward Classes, and the 100th (2015) for territorial adjustments with Bangladesh. These amendments significantly promote equality, representation, and democratic strength.
“The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is a historic legislation which will further boost women empowerment and will enable even greater participation of women in our political process.”
– PM Narendra Modi
PM Modi hailed the passage of the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Eighth Amendment) Bill or Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in 2023. For him, this landmark law is a significant step toward ensuring women have an even greater role in shaping India’s political future.
Symbolic and Transformative Acts
PM Modi’s acts of washing the feet of sanitation workers at the Kumbh and recognising tribal leaders like Bhagwan Birsa Munda and Guru Ravidas reflect his belief in bringing marginalised communities to the forefront. With the highest-ever representation of SC/ST/OBC leaders in his cabinet- 27 OBCs and 15 SC/STs, PM Modi has redefined political inclusion in India, reinforcing that the Constitution is a promise of equality for all.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a powerful move to safeguard the sanctity of the Indian Constitution, declared 25th June as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas, a day to remember the dark chapter in India’s democratic history—the imposition of the Emergency in 1975. On this day, PM Modi reminded the nation of the grave consequences that unfolded when the Constitution was trampled upon. He stated, “to observe 25th June as Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas will serve as a reminder of what happens when the Constitution of India was trampled over. It is also a day to pay homage to each and every person who suffered due to the excesses of the Emergency, a Congress unleashed dark phase of Indian history.”
This day, marked as a solemn occasion, pays tribute to those who were subjected to the excesses of the Emergency—a period when fundamental rights were suspended, media was censored, and political dissent was brutally crushed. The Congress-led government’s decision to impose such an authoritarian rule left deep scars in India’s history. PM Modi further emphasized that Samvidhan Hatya Divas is not just about recalling the past, but about renewing the collective commitment to ensure that such an overreach never happens again.
Through this declaration, PM Modi reaffirmed his vision of an India where democracy is respected, and the Constitution stands as an eternal beacon of justice, liberty, and equality. The day also serves as a call for vigilance, reminding every citizen of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during that dark phase, and of the need to safeguard the Constitution for future generations.
Another symbolic gesture worth mentioning is the inscription of the signatures of the makers of the Constitution on the walls of the Cabinet Hall in the Prime Minister’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg. This display serves as a poignant reminder of the vision and dedication with which the framers of the Indian Constitution worked to establish a democratic and inclusive framework for the nation. Their signatures, etched in the very heart of India’s political power, underscore the commitment to constitutional values that guide the nation’s governance. It is a stark contrast to the repeated attempts by some to reduce the Constitution to a mere political tool, where the focus often shifts to its symbolic use rather than its true spirit. The inscription on the walls at Lok Kalyan Marg is not only a tribute to the architects of the Constitution but also a call to those in power to embrace and uphold the principles they so carefully crafted. In a time where the Constitution is often waved around for show, such gestures remind us of the need for genuine respect and understanding of its provisions.
The Constitution: A Living Document for Bharat’s Future
For PM Modi, the Constitution is not just a historical artefact—it is a living, breathing guide for the nation. It evolves with time, accommodating the needs of a changing India while remaining steadfast in its core values. PM Modi’s governance philosophy is rooted in this belief: the Constitution is the equaliser that bridges divides, the framework that builds a resilient nation, and the guide that shapes India’s aspirations.
As India observes Constitution Day each year, it is not merely a celebration but a call to action—a reminder that the responsibility of upholding its ideals rests with every citizen. Thus, for PM Modi, the Constitution is more than a document; it is the soul of Bharat, lighting the way to a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous future.
