A gift that addresses global challenges

BY RAJDEEP PATHAK

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On 26 November, India celebrated Constitution Day, a day to commemorate the adoption of its foundational legal document in 1949. This Constitution is a remarkable blend of borrowed features and indigenous wisdom, a living document that accommodates diversity and promotes inclusivity.

At its core lies an inherent spirit of mediation and peaceful coexistence, deeply influenced by the ethical framework of Mahatma Gandhi and India’s ancient civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family). Understanding this spirit is crucial, as it offers a potent, indigenous model for addressing some of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century.

The Indian Constitution is philosophically grounded in the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi, whose ethical framework provides a moral compass for its mediatory spirit. This is evident through three core values such as Satyagraha (Truth Force), which promotes a search for substantive justice through mutual adjustment and acknowledgment of the opponent's view; Ahimsa (Non-Violence), which translates into the necessity for parties to communicate with mutual respect and empathy, avoiding intellectual or verbal aggression; and Sarvodaya (Welfare of All), the ultimate goal of a resolution that benefits all involved, mirroring the definition of a successful, sustainable, win-win mediated settlement. Though not legally enforceable, and derived from Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy, they serve as a moral compass for Indian governance, enshrined primarily within the Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP). Specifically, Article 40 mandates the organisation of Panchayats, reflecting Gandhi's ideal of ‘Gram Swaraj (village self-governance). His emphasis on Swadeshi and a decentralised economy is captured in Article 43, which promotes cottage industries.

Furthermore, Article 47 reflects his stance on prohibition of intoxicating substances for public health.