On the eve of Republic Day, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the nation, emphasizing the significance of the Indian Constitution as the foundation of national unity and identity. This marks her third Republic Day-eve address since assuming office.
Constitution as a Pillar of Indian Identity
President Murmu lauded the Constitution as the ultimate foundation of India’s collective identity, binding its citizens together as one family. She highlighted its principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as deeply rooted in India’s civilizational heritage.
“Over the last 75 years, the Constitution has guided our progress. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, the chairman of the drafting committee, and all other members whose tireless efforts gave us this living document,” President Murmu said. She noted that the Constitution continues to evolve, supported by civic virtues that have been ingrained in India’s moral compass for millennia.
Progress in Welfare and Governance
Acknowledging the government’s efforts to redefine welfare, she stated, “Basic necessities have been made a matter of entitlement, reshaping the very concept of welfare.”
President Murmu also hailed significant governance reforms, particularly the introduction of the “One Nation, One Election” bill in Parliament. According to her, the initiative could enhance governance consistency, mitigate policy paralysis, and reduce financial and resource burdens.
“Reforms of such magnitude require an audacity of vision. The ‘One Nation, One Election’ plan has the potential to deliver many governance and economic benefits,” she added.
Education and Justice Reforms
The President highlighted transformative changes in education, noting improvements in learning quality, physical infrastructure, and digital inclusion over the past decade.
Turning to legal reforms, President Murmu celebrated the replacement of colonial-era criminal laws with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. “These laws prioritize justice delivery over mere punishment and give top priority to countering crimes against women and children,” she said.
She also noted that these changes reflect India’s traditions of jurisprudence while addressing modern needs, symbolizing efforts to shed remnants of colonial mindsets and embrace an Indian-centric approach to justice.
A Vision for the Future
In her closing remarks, President Murmu reiterated the importance of collective effort in realizing India’s potential. She urged citizens to uphold the spirit of unity and work towards a brighter future, guided by the Constitution and the nation’s rich heritage.
This address serves as a reminder of India’s journey over the last 75 years and the road ahead as the country continues to evolve while staying rooted in its foundational values.
Sources By Agencies