New Delhi, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar delivered a significant address at an event commemorating the 74th Constitution Day, underscoring the unassailable supremacy of Parliament as the exclusive architect of the Constitution. Speaking passionately, he emphasized that any encroachment into Parliament’s exclusive domain would not only be a constitutional aberration but also run counter to democratic principles.
The Constitution Day event, held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, witnessed Dhankhar praising the wisdom of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the sagacious approach of Home Minister Amit Shah for the pivotal move on August 5, 2019, to revoke Article 370. This move stripped away the special rights previously accorded to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Dhankhar acknowledged that Article 370, the only article not drafted by the Constituent Assembly, had made the lives of the people of Jammu and Kashmir challenging. He expressed gratitude for the wisdom of the Prime Minister and the astute approach of the Home Minister, suggesting that this decision was a tribute to Dr. Ambedkar, who had declined to draft Article 370.
During his address, the Vice-President reiterated the significance of Parliament, describing it as the “soul of democracy.” He pointed out that the Executive’s survival is intertwined with its strength in Parliament, and other institutions also thrive when sanctified by parliamentary approval.
However, Dhankhar recognized the inevitability of differences of opinion among institutions. He proposed the establishment of a mechanism for resolving such differences internally, without publicizing them, indicating his intent to work towards creating such a system.
The event also saw various dignitaries, including Solicitor-General of India Tushar Mehta and Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal, emphasizing the pivotal role played by the entire Constituent Assembly in drafting the Constitution. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s role in ensuring the participation of princely states in the constitutional process was particularly highlighted.
In his concluding remarks, Vice-President Dhankhar appealed to all Members of Parliament and legislators in State bodies to prioritize dialogue and debate as a political strategy, steering away from the current trend of resorting to violence and disruption, which hinders the functioning of the House.
The Constitution Day event in New Delhi, which featured insightful speeches and reflections on constitutional principles, marked a significant celebration of India’s democratic values and constitutional heritage.
