The Jharkhand Pradesh Congress Committee organized a ‘Save the Constitution Day’ event in Ranchi, emphasizing the pivotal role of India’s constitution in safeguarding democracy. Led by Pradesh Congress President Keshav Mahto Kamlesh, the gathering at the Old Assembly Hall featured discussions on the constitution’s significance. The event commenced with tributes to the constitution’s architect, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and its first chairman, Dr. Rajendra Prasad, through floral tributes. A collective recitation of the Preamble marked the formal closing of the seminar.
Keshav Mahto Kamlesh highlighted the constitution as the soul of Indian democracy, with its core essence embedded in the Preamble. He noted that the Indian constitution, the world’s longest written one, also benefited from the contributions of individuals from Jharkhand, underscoring the state’s importance. Kamlesh urged a strong counter-response against those attempting to weaken constitutional bodies or alter its fundamental nature. He asserted that the Congress would firmly oppose any move towards abolishing reservations.
Finance Minister Dr. Radha Krishna Kishore stated that the constitution guarantees equal rights for all sections of society, regardless of caste, religion, or creed. He criticized the current central government’s tendency to concentrate power, alleging that Hindutva is being promoted while Scheduled Castes and Tribes are being denied their rights. He called for the BJP to reflect on whether it truly respects the underprivileged. The Finance Minister also lamented the perceived step-motherly treatment of Jharkhand by the center due to the state’s Mahagathbandhan government, contrasting it with the Congress’s past approach of unbiased support for states.
Former Finance Minister Dr. Rameshwar Oraon addressed the ‘400 paar’ slogan raised for the Lok Sabha elections, terming it an effort to change the constitution. He referenced the provisions for constitutional amendments but cautioned against altering its basic structure, citing the Kesavananda Bharati case ruling. Oraon alleged that the RSS, which considers Manusmriti its constitution, is behind the push for constitutional review, pointing to comments made by its chief, Mohan Bhagwat. He praised the Preamble’s socialist ideals and its reflection of collective welfare and national interest. Oraon also accused the central government of deliberately withholding funds from non-BJP ruled states to hinder their development.
Former Union Minister Subodh Kant Sahay strongly condemned the current central administration for dismantling the secular fabric of the nation. He expressed concern over the integrity of India’s electoral system, which was once lauded globally, now facing accusations of manipulation. Professor Amar Choudhary, former Registrar of Ranchi University, spoke about the constitution’s crucial role in ensuring rights for the marginalized, including Dalits, backward classes, and tribals, through affirmative action like reservations, which has led to their socio-economic upliftment.
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