Constitution Still Guides India’s Democratic Journey: VP Radhakrishnan

• VP calls Constitution a living document shaping India’s progress
• Says 25 crore people have risen from poverty in a decade
• Lauds Delhi Assembly’s diverse representation and women-led leadership
• Urges legislators to strengthen India’s path to Viksit Bharat @2047

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 26th Nov: Vice-President Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan on Wednesday participated as Chief Guest in the Constitution Day celebration at the Delhi Legislative Assembly, where he released a Coffee Table Book chronicling India’s legislative journey and commemorating 100 years since Shri Vithalbhai Patel became the first Indian Speaker.

Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said the Constitution remains a living document that continues to guide India’s democratic journey. He noted that it was shaped through intellect, lived experience, sacrifice, and the aspirations of millions who fought for freedom. He paid tribute to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, whose leadership ensured the Constitution captured the nation’s soul and ambitions.

The Vice-President recalled that since 2015, 26 November has been observed as Samvidhan Divas, evolving into a nationwide celebration that strengthens awareness of rights, duties, and constitutional values. He said this year marks the culmination of the 75th Constitution anniversary celebrations under Humara Samvidhan, Humara Swabimaan.

Speaking on India’s progress during the Amrit Kaal, he said the country is steadily moving toward a Viksit and Atmanirbhar Bharat, guided by the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He noted that India—once written off as an economically weak nation—has today become the world’s fourth-largest economy and is on track to rise further.

Highlighting social progress, he said 25 crore people have been lifted out of poverty in the last decade, calling it an achievement unmatched in global history. He added that digital advancements have enabled 100 crore citizens to be covered under social security schemes, fulfilling the dreams of the Constitution’s architects.

The Vice-President praised the Delhi Legislative Assembly’s diverse professional representation and acknowledged the presence of committees dedicated to senior citizens, transgender persons, and persons with disabilities. He also appreciated the leadership of Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, calling her stewardship an example of India’s transition to women-led development.

He highlighted the historical significance of the Delhi Assembly building, which once housed the Imperial Legislative Council and the first Central Legislative Assembly, hosting foundational debates on rights, citizenship, and governance.

Commending the release of the Coffee Table Book, he said it features rare photographs, archival material, excerpts of landmark speeches, and visuals from the 2025 All India Speakers’ Conference marking Vithalbhai Patel’s centenary year. He said the publication would help future generations stay connected with India’s legislative heritage.

The Vice-President urged legislators to contribute constructively through debate and dialogue in shaping Viksit Bharat @2047. Concluding his address, he appealed to citizens to uphold Fundamental Duties and live the Constitution’s values to strengthen national unity and democratic ethos.

Earlier, he offered floral tributes at the statues of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar and Shri Vithalbhai Patel. The event was attended by Delhi Lt. Governor Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, Speaker Shri Vijender Gupta, Ministers, MLAs, and other dignitaries.