Secular Constitution reflection of 5,000 yrs of civilisation: Himanta

Guwahati: The Constitution is not merely a legal document but the "culmination of over 5,000 years of Indian civilisation and culture", said CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, noting that the Constitution emerged as a beacon of unity and justice during a period of divisiveness and communal tension.He was speaking at the commemoration of the 75th Constitution Day at the Lok Seva Bhawan on Nov 28.The CM lauded the prescience of the Constituent Assembly in crafting a Constitution that embodies the essence of Indian civilisation, ensuring the creation of an equitable society. He highlighted India's distinctiveness, asserting that despite 90% of the population being of one religion, the Constitution was framed as secular.This was a remarkable accomplishment, as it was formulated at a time when there was scope to establish a religious foundation for the nation's governance. Yet, the Constitution was deliberately structured to be inclusive and secular, he added.He recounted that the Constituent Assembly established that there was no necessity to demonstrate that Indian civilisation was secular, as its secular nature was already intrinsic.The CM referenced Dr BR Ambedkar's valedictory speech, noting that studying it provides profound insight into the fundamental values of the Constitution. He contemplated the numerous challenges our Constitution encountered at various junctures in history. He referred to the 1975 declaration of emergency, which imperilled the very essence of constitutional integrity. Despite this impediment, he lauded the judiciary for its endeavours to uphold the fundamental rights of citizens.Sarma emphasised that the Constitution embodies the aspirations of its people, affirming that as the world's largest democracy, India positions the welfare of its citizens at the core of its governance. He observed that the Constitution ensures that people from all sections of society enjoy liberty, equality and justice. He reiterated that while the Constitution bestows various rights and protections upon citizens, each citizen also must preserve the core values and principles of the Constitution.