Constitutional principles under threat: Opposition

On Republic Day, the political class of the country called for strengthening the values embedded in the Constitution.

Congress President Rahul Gandhi said the Constitution grants the citizens justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. “More than ever before in the history of our young nation, we must defend these treasured commitments,” he said.

He said liberty should be ensured to express ourselves freely, without fear of verbal or physical intimidation and violence.

“We are citizens of a democratic republic and our strength is built upon a diversity of religion, cultures, ideas and opinions,” he said, adding that “equality of opportunity, regardless of our economic status, caste, religion or gender” should also be ensured. “On this Republic Day, let us renew our lifelong pledge to protect our Constitution, the keystone of our cherished Republic, and to defend it as one people, whenever it is endangered,” he said.

CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury said we must push the values and principles of the Constitution to ensure genuine equality for each citizen.

“Our Constitution was adopted on this day, 68 years ago. Its basic tenets and principles - the Right (along with Freedom) to Equality - are under grave threat today. We need to go beyond the levels of Equality and Fraternity achieved today, not regress,” he said.

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