Why India’s Constitution Preamble Stands Unique: Insights from V-P Dhankhar

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar recently asserted that the Preamble of the Indian Constitution is unchangeable, pointing fingers at the Congress government under Indira Gandhi for altering it during the Emergency in 1976. He emphasized that the Preamble is the very essence of the Constitution. No other country has changed its Preamble, making India’s case unique.

At an event celebrating the release of ‘Ambedkar’s Messages’ by D. S. Veeraiah, Dhankhar explained how critical the Preamble is to India’s identity. He argued that it serves as the foundation for the Constitution. The changes made through the 42nd Amendment added the words “Socialist,” “Secular,” and “Integrity” during a dark chapter in Indian history when civil liberties were suppressed. Dhankhar expressed concern that these modifications were conducted when the voices of “We the People” were silenced.

This sentiment is echoed by many who study constitutional law. Experts argue that the stability of a Constitution relies heavily on its Preamble. According to a 2022 survey by the Indian Political Science Association, over 70% of Indians believe that the Preamble should remain untouched to honor the principles laid by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the founding fathers.

Social media reactions have also resonated with this issue. A trending hashtag, #SaveOurPreamble, emerged recently, suggesting that citizens want to preserve the historical and cultural significance of the Preamble without alterations. Comparatively, in countries like the United States, the Constitution’s Preamble has remained intact since its ratification, signaling a commitment to its original intent.

Criticism of the inclusion of “Socialist” and “Secular” has gained traction recently, with figures like RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale questioning whether these terms still fit the current Indian narrative. This debate underscores a broader discussion about national identity and the evolving role of governance.

In essence, Dhankhar’s reflections urge us to recognize the importance of the Preamble as a guiding document. As the landscape of Indian politics shifts, maintaining this constitutional cornerstone could become even more crucial.

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