India’s guiding document to uphold unity & democracy

Why do we celebrate January 26?

- Shashi Shekhar

A general survey of Indians will present a divided opinion. Some look at it as a routine government event while others associate it with the nation’s pride and honour. This division of opinion is our shared strength. We have a unique ability to keep moving ahead despite our differences.The fits-and-starts journey of the last 76 years presents an inspiring tale. Those unaware should know that the 299 members of the Constituent Assembly, tasked with forging a Constitution for India, had deep philosophical differences. For instance, the Hindu Code Bill that BR Ambedkar presented, proposed — among other things — settlement of property in case a Hindu man or a woman died intestate. It advocated equal distribution of the property among the widow and the sons and daughters of the deceased. It also recommended changes in Hindu marriage practices that gave Hindu women the right to seek divorce. There was stiff opposition to these proposals. Ambedkar and Jawaharlal Nehru tried to convince the Opposition with their arguments but failed.