Republic and Constitution: Partners in nation-building

We celebrated Republic Day on Sunday. Some think our Constitution is subservient to power and authority while others insist that the document has been able to achieve many of its goals.

- Shashi Shekhar

Without jumping to conclusions, I will narrate three stories, which have played an important role in strengthening the foundations of the Indian Republic.

Independence, Bhim Rao Ambedkar, and Jogendra Nath Mandal: Few in India would not have heard about Ambedkar, but how many remember Mandal? His name should have been remembered and recognised at least in Pakistan, but even there he's a forgotten figure. While Ambedkar was India's first law minister, Mandal held the same portfolio in Pakistan.