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The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi addressing during the special discussion of the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution in Lok Sabha on 14 December 2024 said, “India is the mother of Democracy and our Constitution is the Foundation of India’s unity. When NDA got the opportunity to form the government in 2014, democracy and constitution got strengthened. Shri Modi said we are working to free the poor from their difficulties and it is our biggest mission and resolution. He said if we follow our fundamental duties, no one can stop us from making the ‘Viksit Bharat’ a reality. Excerpts of PM’s address:
Addressing the House, PM Shri Narendra Modi remarked that it was a matter of pride and honour for all the citizens of India and all the people across the globe who respect democracy that we are celebrating this festival of Democracy. Thanking the foresight, vision and efforts of the framers of our constitution in this remarkable and momentous journey of 75 years of our Constitution, he said that it was time to celebrate the festival of Democracy after successful completion of 75 years. Shri Modi was pleased that even the members of parliament were involving themselves in this celebration and expressing their views, he thanked and congratulated them for the same.
Terming the achievement of 75 years as an extraordinary feat, the Prime Minister expressed pride that the Constitution had overcome all the predicted possibilities for India, soon after its independence and the subsequent challenges to bring us all to this far. He expressed deep gratitude towards the constitution makers and the crores of citizens for this great achievement. Shri Modi remarked that the citizens of India had passed every test in successfully adopting and living the values of the Constitution as envisioned by its makers. He said therefore it was the citizens who truly deserved all the accolades.
Shri Modi remarked that the constitution makers never supported the view that India was born in 1947 or that the constitution would come to effect from 1950, rather believed and were proud of the great tradition and heritage of India and its democracy. He added that India’s democracy and republic past has always been remarkable and has been an inspiration for the world and therefore, he added that “India is known as the mother of democracy”. Shri Modi underlined that we are not just a great democratic country but also the creators of democracy.
Role of the women during the process of making of the constitution
The Prime Minister lauded the role of the women during the process of making of the constitution and also empowering it further. He added that there were fifteen
India during its presidency of the G-20 summit put forward the vision of Women-led development in front of the world. Shri Modi also noted the successful enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam by all the parliamentarians and added that the Government had taken steps to ensure increased political participation of the women
respected and active members in the Constituent Assembly and they had further strengthened the process of drafting the constitution by giving their original thoughts, views and ideas. Recalling that each one of them were from diverse backgrounds, Shri Modi emphasized that the thoughtful suggestions given by the women members had a profound impact on the constitution. The Prime Minister also expressed pride that suffrage rights were given to women right from the time of independence as compared to many other countries of the world which took decades for the same. He added that with the same spirit, India during its presidency of the G-20 summit put forward the vision of Women-led development in front of the world. Shri Modi also noted the successful enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam by all the parliamentarians and added that the Government had taken steps to ensure increased political participation of the women.
True tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi expressed dissatisfaction, stating that post-independence, the framers of the Constitution had unity in their hearts and minds. However, after independence, due to distorted mentalities or selfishness, the greatest blow was dealt to the core spirit of the nation’s unity. The Prime Minister highlighted that unity in diversity has been India’s hallmark and emphasized that we celebrate diversity, and the country’s progress lies in celebrating this diversity.
However, those with a colonial mindset, who could not see the good in India, and those who believed India was born in 1947, sought contradictions in this diversity. The Prime Minister remarked that instead of celebrating this invaluable treasure of diversity, efforts were made to sow poisonous seeds within it, aiming to harm the nation’s unity. Shri Modi urged everyone to make the celebration of diversity an integral part of our lives, and that will be the true tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Government’s policies In past 10 years
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi highlighted that over the past 10 years, the government’s policies have consistently aimed to strengthen the unity of India. He
added that Article 370 was an obstacle to the nation’s unity and acted as a barrier. Shri Modi emphasised that the unity of the country was a priority, in line with the spirit of the Constitution, and hence, Article 370 was abrogated.
The Prime Minister remarked that GST has played a significant role in economic unity and acknowledged the contributions of the previous government and noted that the current government had the opportunity to implement it, advancing the concept of “One Nation, One Tax.”
Touching upon the importance of how ration cards have been a valuable document for the poor in our country and the difficulties encountered by a poor person when he/she moved from one state to another, Shri Modi said that they were not entitled to any benefits. He emphasized that every citizen should have equal rights, regardless of where they are in this vast country. And added that to strengthen this sense of unity, the government had reinforced the concept of “One Nation, One Ration Card.”
“One Nation, One Health Card”
The Prime Minister remarked that to uphold the principle of national unity, the government introduced the “One Nation, One Health Card” initiative through Ayushman Bharat. He noted that even a person from a remote area of Bihar working in Pune can receive necessary medical services with an Ayushman card.
“One Nation, One Grid
The Prime Minister emphasized that to uphold the spirit of the Constitution and the
Reiterating that India was progressing rapidly, Shri Modi remarked that soon India will be the third largest economy in the world. He added that it was the combined resolve of 140 crore Indians to ensure that India is developed by 2047
mantra of unity, the government implemented the “One Nation, One Grid” initiative. He noted that today, electricity can be seamlessly supplied to every corner of India.
Balanced development to strengthen national unity
Touching upon the infrastructure development in the country, the Prime Minister emphasized that the government is focusing on balanced development to strengthen national unity. He added that whether it is the North East, Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan regions, or the desert areas, the government had undertaken efforts to empower infrastructure comprehensively. He noted that this initiative aims to eliminate any sense of distance due to lack of development, thereby fostering unity.
Emphasising the digital divide between the “haves” and “have-nots”, Shri Modi highlighted that India’s success story in Digital India is a source of great pride globally. He added that the democratization of technology has been a key factor in this success.
The Prime Minister remarked that the Constitution expects unity, and in this spirit, the importance of mother tongue has been recognized. He noted that suppressing the mother tongue cannot culturally enrich the nation’s populace. Shri Modi highlighted that several classical languages were given their rightful place and respect. He mentioned that the “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” campaign is strengthening national unity and instilling cultural values in the new generation.
Kashi Tamil Sangamam
Highlighting that the Kashi Tamil Sangamam and Telugu Kashi Sangamam have become significant institutionalized events, Shri Modi emphasized that these cultural initiatives strengthen societal bonds. He added that the importance of India’s unity is recognized in the core principles of the Constitution, and this should be acknowledged.
Constitution is celebrating its 75th anniversary
The Prime Minister remarked while the Constitution is celebrating its 75th anniversary, milestones like 25, 50, and 60 years also hold significance. Reflecting on history, he remarked that during the 25th anniversary of the Constitution, it was torn apart in the country. The Prime Minister highlighted that the Emergency was imposed, constitutional arrangements were dismantled, the country was turned into a prison, citizens’ rights were snatched, and press freedom was locked down. The Prime Minister said that democracy was strangled, and the sacrifices of the Constitution’s framers were attempted to be buried.
50th anniversary of the Constitution
Shri Modi noted that under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the nation celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Constitution on November 26, 2000. The Prime Minister remarked that Atal Vajpayee ji, as Prime Minister, delivered a special message to the nation, emphasizing the importance of unity, public participation, and partnership. He noted that Shri Vajpayee’s efforts were aimed at living the spirit of the Constitution and awakening the public.
The PM expressed special respect for the Constitution, stating that it was the spirit of the Constitution that enabled many people like him to reach where they are today. He highlighted that without any background, it was the power of the Constitution and the blessings of the people that brought them here.
Before 1952, Rajya Sabha was not formed
Shri Modi noted that from 1947 to 1952, India did not have an elected government
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government is focusing on balanced development to strengthen national unity. He added that whether it is the North East, Jammu and Kashmir, the Himalayan regions, or the desert areas, the government had undertaken efforts to empower infrastructure comprehensively
but a temporary, selected one, with no elections held. He highlighted that before 1952, the Rajya Sabha was not formed, and there were no state elections, meaning there was no mandate from the people. He added that despite this, in 1951, without an elected government, an ordinance was issued to amend the Constitution, attacking freedom of expression. The Prime Minister emphasized that this was an insult to the Constitution’s framers, as such matters were not addressed in the Constituent Assembly. He remarked that when the opportunity arose, they hammered down on freedom of expression, which was a grave insult to the Constitution’s creators. The Prime Minister said that what could not be achieved in the Constituent Assembly was done through the back door by a non-elected Prime Minister, which was a sin.
Clipping the wings of the judiciary
PM highlighted that in 1971, a Supreme Court decision was overturned by amending the Constitution, clipping the wings of the judiciary. Shri Modi noted that the amendment stated that Parliament could alter any article of the Constitution without judicial review, stripping the courts of their powers. He added that this enabled the then government to curtail fundamental rights and control the judiciary.
Constitution was misused and democracy was strangled
The Prime Minister noted that during the Emergency, the Constitution was misused, and democracy was strangled. He emphasized that in 1975, the 39th Amendment was passed, preventing any court from challenging the elections of the President, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Speaker, and this was applied retrospectively to cover past actions.
Further deliberating that during the Emergency, Shri Modi noted that people’s rights were taken away, thousands were imprisoned, the judiciary was strangled, and press freedom was locked down.
Supreme Court’s judgment in the Shah Bano case
Recalling the Supreme Court’s judgment in the Shah Bano case provided justice to an Indian woman based on the Constitution’s dignity and spirit, Shri Modi noted that the Supreme Court granted an elderly woman her rightful due, but then-Prime Minister negated this spirit, sacrificing the Constitution’s essence. The Prime Minister remarked that Parliament passed a law to overturn the Supreme Court’s decision once again.
The Prime Minister remarked that for the first time in history, the Constitution was deeply wounded. He added that the framers of the Constitution envisioned an elected government and Prime Minister. However, a non-constitutional entity, the National Advisory Council, which did not take any oath, was placed above the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). The Prime Minister noted that this entity was given an unofficial status above the PMO.
Dr. Ambedkar Memorial on Alipur Road
Shri Modi noted that during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government, it was decided to build a memorial in Dr. Ambedkar’s memory but this work was neither initiated nor allowed for the next 10 years. The Prime Minister emphasized that when his government came to power, out of respect for Dr. Ambedkar, they constructed the Dr. Ambedkar Memorial on Alipur Road and completed the work.
He highlighted that it was only in 2015, when BJP government came to power, the work was completed. The Prime Minister noted that even the awarding of the Bharat Ratna to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was done a long time later after independence.
Shri Modi underlined that the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was celebrated globally in 120 countries and during Dr. Ambedkar’s birth centenary, a memorial was reconstructed in Mhow, Dr. Ambedkar’s birthplace.
No part of the country should remain weak
Lauding Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a visionary committed to bring the marginalized sections of society into the mainstream, Shri Modi remarked that Dr. Ambedkar
Shri Modi underlined that the 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was celebrated globally in 120 countries and during Dr. Ambedkar’s birth centenary, a memorial was reconstructed in Mhow, Dr. Ambedkar’s birthplace
believed that for India to develop, no part of the country should remain weak. He added that this concern led to the establishment of the reservation system. The Prime Minister noted that those engaged in vote bank politics attempted to introduce various measures under the guise of religious appeasement within the reservation system, causing significant harm to the SC, ST, and OBC communities.
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC)
Discussing the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) as a burning issue which was not overlooked by the Constituent Assembly, the PM said that the Constituent Assembly engaged in extensive discussions on the UCC and decided that it would be best for the elected government to implement it. He added that this was the directive of the Constituent Assembly. The Prime Minister remarked that Dr. Ambedkar advocated for the UCC, and his words should not be misrepresented.
Vajpayee’s government dedicated to the spirit of the Constitution
Shri Modi noted that in 1996, the BJP emerged as the largest party, and the President, respecting the Constitution, invited them to form the government. However, the government lasted only 13 days because they chose to honor the Constitution. He emphasized that Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee did not opt for bargaining but respected the Constitution and resigned after 13 days. He added that in 1998, the NDA government faced instability, but Vajpayee’s government, dedicated to the spirit of the Constitution, preferred to lose by one vote and resign rather than accept unconstitutional positions. He emphasized that this is their history, values, and tradition. On the other hand, he noted that during the cash-for-votes scandal, money was used to save a minority government, turning the spirit of Indian democracy into a marketplace where votes were bought.
Shri Modi remarked that after 2014, the NDA was given the opportunity to serve, strengthening the Constitution and democracy. He highlighted that they launched a campaign to rid the country of old ailments. The Prime Minister noted that over the past 10 years, they had also made constitutional amendments, for the unity and integrity of the country, for its bright future, and with full dedication to the spirit of the Constitution.
OBC Commission
The PM remarked that the OBC community had been demanding constitutional status for the OBC Commission for three decades. He highlighted that they amended
the Constitution to grant this status, taking pride in doing so. The Prime Minister emphasized that standing with the marginalized sections of society is their duty, which is why the constitutional amendment was made.
Article 370
Shri Modi highlighted that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution could not fully apply to Jammu and Kashmir due to Article 370, while the Government wanted Dr. Ambedkar’s Constitution to be implemented in every part of India. He added that the BJP government amended the Constitution to strengthen national unity and to pay tribute to Dr. Ambedkar. The Prime Minister remarked that the central government removed Article 370, and now the Supreme Court of India has also upheld this decision.
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA)
Touching upon the amendment of the Constitution to remove Article 370, Shri Modi highlighted that they also enacted laws to fulfil the promise made by Mahatma Gandhi and other senior leaders at the time of partition, to care for minorities in neighbouring countries during times of crisis. He emphasized that they introduced the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) to honour this commitment and said that
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Constitution could not fully apply to Jammu and Kashmir due to Article 370, while the Government wanted Dr. Ambedkar’s Constitution to be implemented in every part of India. The BJP government amended the Constitution to strengthen national unity and to pay tribute to Dr. Ambedkar
they proudly stand by this law, as it aligns with the spirit of the Constitution and strengthens the nation.
Shri Modi remarked that the constitutional amendments made by his government were aimed at correcting past mistakes and paving the way for a brighter future. He highlighted that time will tell if they stand the test of time. The Prime Minister emphasized that these amendments were not driven by selfish power interests but were acts of virtue for the nation’s benefit. He noted that this is why they confidently address any questions raised.
Highlighting that after so many years of independence, many families did not have access to a toilet to live with dignity, Shri Modi said that the campaign to build toilets was a dream for the poor, and they took it up with full dedication. He added that despite being mocked, they remained steadfast because the dignity of ordinary citizens was their priority. The PM emphasized that women had to go for open defecation either before sunrise or after sunset, and this did not bother those who only saw the poor on TV or in newspaper headlines. The Prime Minister remarked that those who do not understand the life of the poor would not commit such injustices.
Ayushman Bharat scheme
Discussing the healthcare sector, Shri Modi remarked that a single illness can ruin a poor family who works hard day and night to escape poverty and educate their children, their plans and efforts. He highlighted that they implemented the Ayushman Bharat scheme to provide free treatment to 50-60 crore citizens, respecting the spirit of the Constitution. The Prime Minister noted that this scheme ensures healthcare for all, including those above 70 years of age, from any section of society.
Touching upon the free ration provided to the poor, Shri Modi highlighted that 25 crore people have successfully overcome poverty. He added that only those who have emerged from poverty understand the importance of support. He highlighted that just as a patient is advised to take care after being discharged from the hospital to avoid relapse, it is essential to support the poor to prevent them from falling back into poverty. The Prime Minister noted that this is why they provide free ration, to ensure that those who have been lifted out of poverty do not return to it, and to help those still in poverty to rise above it. He emphasized that mocking this effort is unjust, as it is crucial for maintaining the dignity and well-being of the citizens.
PM SVANidhi
The Prime Minister noted that street vendors, who work tirelessly from morning to night, often face hardships, including renting their carts and borrowing money at high interest rates. He emphasized that the government introduced the PM SVANidhi scheme to provide collateral-free loans to street vendors. The Prime Minister remarked that due to this scheme, street vendors have reached the third round of loans, gaining respect and expanding their businesses.
Welfare of Vishwakarma artisans
Noting that there is no one in this country who does not need the services of Vishwakarma artisans, Shri Modi highlighted that a significant system had been in place for centuries, but the welfare of Vishwakarma artisans was never addressed.
The tribal community existed during the times of Ram and Krishna, yet no separate ministry was created for them even after decades of independence…it was the government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee that first established a separate ministry for tribal affairs and allocated a budget for their development and expansion
The Prime Minister noted that they have created a plan for the welfare of Vishwakarma artisans, including provisions for bank loans, new training, modern tools, and innovative designs. He emphasized that they have strengthened this initiative to support the Vishwakarma community.
Shri Modi highlighted that the government had ensured rights for transgender individuals under the Indian Constitution and has enacted laws to protect their rights and provide them with a dignified life.
PM Jan Man Yojana
The Prime Minister expressed gratitude to the President for guidance in creating the PM Jan Man Yojana, which focuses on the development of the most backward tribal communities. He highlighted that these small groups, often overlooked in vote politics, have now received attention and support through this scheme. The Prime Minister remarked that he is committed to finding and supporting even the most marginalized individuals.
Aspirational Districts
Shri Modi noted that over 60 years, 100 districts were identified as backward, and this label became a punishment posting for responsible officers. He emphasized that they changed this situation by introducing the concept of Aspirational Districts, regularly monitoring 40 parameters online. The Prime Minister remarked that today, Aspirational Districts are matching the best districts in their states and some are even reaching the national average. He highlighted that no region should be left behind, and they are now focusing on developing 500 blocks as Aspirational Blocks.
Atalji first established a separate ministry for tribal affairs
Highlighting that the tribal community existed during the times of Ram and Krishna, yet no separate ministry was created for them even after decades of independence, the Prime Minister noted that it was the government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee that first established a separate ministry for tribal affairs and allocated a budget for their development and expansion. Speaking on the welfare of the fishermen, Shri Modi said that for the first time their government created a separate ministry of fisheries and a separate budget was given for their welfare. He said care was taken of this section of the society.
Talking about the North-East, the Prime Minister said our North-East was neglected due to less votes or seats there. He said it was Atal Ji’s government which for the first time made DONER Ministry for the welfare of the North-East and today because of it one can see the development of the North-East in building of railways, roads, ports, airports.
‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’
The Prime Minister said ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, is not a mere slogan, It is our article of faith and hence we have implemented government schemes without discrimination. He said the Government is striving for saturation of schemes so that 100% of the beneficiaries get the benefit. He added that if there is any true secularism then it is in saturation and if there is any true social justice then this saturation, that is the 100% benefit should be given to the person who is entitled to it, without any discrimination. He said this is true secularism and true social justice.
Bringing youth in politics
The Prime Minister emphasized that all political parties should make efforts to attract the youth of the country, to strengthen the democracy and to bring the youth of the country forward. He said bringing youth in politics is the need of the country’s democracy and reiterated that 1 lakh such youth should be brought into the country’s politics, who do not have any political family background. He said the country needs new energy and young people who come with new resolutions and dreams and when we are celebrating 75 years of the Constitution of India we should move ahead in that direction.
The Prime Minister said If we all move forward together with this resolution then with everyone’s efforts, we the people, can fulfil the dream of a developed India. He said when the dream of 140 crore countrymen is fulfilled and the country starts moving with the resolution, then it brings the desired results. Shri Modi said he had immense respect for 140 crore countrymen and faith in their strength, he had immense faith in the youth power of the country, in the women power of the country.
Concluding his remarks the Prime Minister said that we should move forward with the resolve that when the country celebrates 100 years of independence in 2047, it will be celebrated as Viksit Bharat.
11 resolutions before the House
The Prime Minister said inspired by the spirit of the Constitution for the future of India he wanted to place 11 resolutions before the House.
–The first resolution is that whether it is a citizen or the government, everyone should perform their duties.
–The second resolution is that every sector, every society should get the benefit of development, Sabka Saath Sabka Vikas.
–The third resolution is that there should be zero tolerance towards corruption, there should be no social acceptance of the corrupt.
–The fourth resolution is that the citizens of the country should take pride in following the laws of the country, the rules of the country, and the traditions of the country.
–The fifth resolution is to get rid of the mentality of slavery, there should be pride in the heritage of the country.
–The sixth resolution is that the politics of the country should be freed from nepotism.
–The Seventh resolution, the constitution should be respected, the constitution should not be used as a weapon for political gain.
–The Eighth resolution, in keeping the spirit of the constitution, reservation should not be snatched from those who are getting it and every attempt to give reservation on the basis of religion should be stopped.
–The Ninth resolution, India should become an example for the world in women led development.
–The Tenth resolution, development of the nation through the development of the state, this should be our mantra of development.
–The Eleventh resolution, the aim of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ should be paramount.