Constitution Day of India (Samvidhan Divas)

Constitution Day honors the adoption of India’s Constitution and celebrates our commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Constitution Day of India (also called Samvidhan Divas) is observed every year on 26 November.

📌 Why is 26 November celebrated?

• On 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India formally adopted the Constitution of India.

• The Constitution came into full effect on 26 January 1950, but 26 November is celebrated to honor the day of its adoption.

📖 When was Constitution Day declared?

• In 2015, the Government of India declared 26 November as Constitution Day to promote constitutional values and awareness among citizens.

🇮🇳 How is it observed?

• Schools and colleges hold educational programs about the Constitution.

• The Preamble is often read in institutions across the country.

• Government departments and public offices organize events to spread awareness about constitutional responsibilities.

📜 Brief History of the Indian Constitution

1. Background Before Independence

Before 1947, India was governed under various laws created by the British, such as:

• Government of India Acts (1858, 1909, 1919, 1935)The 1935 Act became the basis for many constitutional features later adopted.

2. Formation of the Constituent Assembly (1946)

• The Constituent Assembly was formed in December 1946 after provincial elections.

• It had 389 members, later reduced to 299 after Partition.

• Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected President of the Assembly.

• Dr. B.R. Ambedkar became Chairman of the Drafting Committee.

3. Drafting the Constitution (1946–1949)

• It took 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days to draft the Constitution.

• There were:

  • 11 sessions

  • 165 days of meetings

  • Over 7,600 amendments proposed; around 2,400 were discussed.

• The Drafting Committee included key figures like:

  • K.M. Munshi

  • Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar

  • N. Gopalaswami Ayyangar

  • T.T. Krishnamachari (spokesperson)

4. Adoption and Enforcement

• The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949.

• It came into force on 26 January 1950, celebrated as Republic Day.

• India became a sovereign democratic republic with:

  • Parliamentary system

  • Federal structure with a unitary bias

  • Fundamental Rights & Directive Principles

5. Unique Features

• It is one of the longest written constitutions in the world.

• It borrowed ideas from many countries:

  • UK – Parliamentary system

  • US – Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review

  • Ireland – Directive Principles

  • Canada – Federal structure

  • Australia – Joint sitting of Parliament

6. Continuous Evolution

• The Constitution is a living document.

• It has undergone 100+ amendments (as of now).

• Major amendments include:

  • 1st Amendment (1951) – Restrictions on rights

  • 42nd Amendment (1976) – Added Socialist, Secular, Integrity

  • 44th Amendment (1978) – Restored rights after Emergency

  • 73rd & 74th Amendments (1992) – Strengthened local governance

In conclusion, Constitution Day is not just a celebration of the adoption of our Constitution—it is a renewal of our responsibility as citizens. The Constitution is more than a legal document; it is the guiding light that protects our rights and shapes our duties. As we commemorate this day, let us pledge to uphold constitutional values, promote harmony, and contribute to the progress of our nation. A strong Constitution lives through responsible citizens.

Constitution Day celebrates the vision of our founders and the values that define India as a democratic republic.