Gopalkrishna Gandhi Highlights the Collective Spirit in the Indian Constitution's Preamble

Sonipat, Nov 28 (NationPress) Former High Commissioner and Ambassador Gopalkrishna Gandhi stated, 'The Preamble of the Indian Constitution embodies a unique blend of philosophical and political optimism, allowing us to recognize the strength of our nation's collective spirit.'

'It positions us as authors, proprietors, and recipients of this extraordinary document. We, the People of India... though expressed in English, the essence captured in other languages reveals our identity: Vayam Bharatasya Jana. This phrase truly encapsulates the power of India's collective spirit,' expressed Professor Gandhi, who previously served as Governor of West Bengal, during the Constitution Day Lecture commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Indian Constitution's adoption on November 26, 1949.

'It has been observed that the Constitution of India was crafted by the honest for the innocent and by the idealistic for those with aspirations. Along with this precious document came four significant symbols: the national flag, the national anthem, the national motto - Satyamev Jayate - and the emblem. The motto, which conveys that truth alone prevails, is profound as it transcends personal rights and wrongs,' he remarked.

'The National Anthem, penned by Guru Rabindranath Tagore in 1913, was part of a larger poem, conceived long before the idea of a national anthem or India’s independence (34 years later!) emerged.'

Prof. Gandhi recited excerpts from Tagore's poem, translating it from Bengali for the captivated audience, emphasizing that the anthem should resonate with triumph. His insights provided a masterclass on the historical roots of some of the most revered symbols of India as a Republic.

'The Constitution of India is a priceless asset that has enriched us as Indians. It is essential to recognize that the Constitution envisioned future possibilities,' he noted.

He then highlighted the alarming degradation of our natural resources – including glaciers, rivers, and forests – pointing out that the Directive Principles of the Constitution mandate the State to safeguard its forests.

'The Constitution must address the dramatic decline of our natural resources,' he asserted.

Prof. Gandhi expressed appreciation for the presence of numerous descendants of the first Constituent Assembly members, noting that their participation elevated the significance of the gathering commemorating the Constitution's Adoption in 1949.

In welcoming Prof. Gandhi to deliver the pivotal Constitution Day Lecture, the Founding Vice Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, remarked, 'It is my privilege to welcome India's leading public intellectual for the Constitution Day Lecture. As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of our university, we are pleased to note that it aligns with India's 75th Anniversary of the Constitution's Adoption, inspiring us to create India’s first Constitution Museum.'

'There exists a profound aspiration to disseminate the concept of the Constitution Museum throughout India, enabling ordinary citizens to connect with it and democratize access to the Constitution. This museum will serve as a hub for understanding the Constitution, featuring various sections dedicated to different parts of the document and their significance. Every member of the Constituent Assembly will be honored in the museum, showcasing spirited debates and discussions that shaped this forward-thinking manuscript. Through diverse formats – textual, audio-visual, and experiential – it will spark visitors’ curiosity about the Constitution and its evolution,' he said.

The museum's artistic displays are a significant attraction, including elements that were part of the original Constitution's handcrafted document. The Academy also maintains an archive of expert interviews exploring various facets of the Constitution, particularly the development of fundamental rights guaranteed to Indian citizens.

A dedicated Children's Corner, featuring interactive installations, quiz stations, graphic pamphlets, and novels, aims to introduce these complex ideas in an engaging, experiential, and accessible manner.

The Constitution Academy is not merely an initiative to document Constitutional heritage but also a contribution to it. On this 75th Constitution Day, it pays tribute to the legacy of those who shaped this remarkable document, ensuring that it continues to be a vibrant guide for future generations.

Professor R. Sudarshan, Dean of the Jindal School of Government & Public Policy, welcomed Prof. Gopalkrishna Gandhi, stating, 'It is our honor to host Prof. Gandhi, who connects us to our history and India’s journey to independence. The founders of the Republic of India established a framework for addressing politics with civility and grace. The Constituent Assembly itself exemplifies courtesy extended to members holding differing views. Prof. Gandhi is a prolific author and scholar, with numerous universities awarding him honorary degrees.'

Prof. Mohan Kumar, Dean of Strategic & International Initiatives at O.P. Jindal Global University, delivered the vote of thanks, with concluding remarks provided by Prof. Dabiru Sridhar Patnaik, the Registrar of JGU.