26 November Constitution Day: History, significance and more

Constitution Day, also known as Samvidhan Divas, is celebrated every year on November 26. This day marks the adoption of the Indian Constitution in 1949 by the Constituent Assembly of India.

The Constitution finally took effect on January 26, 1950, when India became a republic.

The Government of India’s Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment declared November 26 Constitution Day in 2015, the year that marked the 125th birth anniversary of Dr BR Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution. Previously, the day was celebrated as Law Day.

Here's an overview of its significance and celebrations:

26 November Constitution Day – The Significance

Celebrating Constitution Day is primarily to honour Dr BR Ambedkar and promote awareness of constitutional values, rights, and duties.

Known as the Father of the Indian Constitution, Dr Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee of the Constitution.

The Constitution established India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, guaranteeing its citizens justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Thus, the day underscores the importance of national unity, fostering unity in justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

26 November Constitution Day – The Historical Background

After the Government of India Act, 1935, a need was felt to have a set of provisions that would mark India as a sovereign democratic republic. Subsequently, a Constituent Assembly was formed in December 1946, with Dr. Rajendra Prasad, the first President of India, as its chairman

The Assembly had 389 members, including prominent leaders like Dr BR Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Patel. The Assembly met for the first time on December 9, 1946, and was presided over by Dr Prasad.