Bhopal: The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world and is considered one of the best ones. It has stood the test of time. But given the organic nature of Indian democracy the Constitution has been amended 103 times since its enforcement in 1950.
The past 70 years have witnessed cataclysmic changes at the global level and present day India is virtually unrecognisable from the neo-Independent nation of 1947. So, in keeping with the changing times, do we need further changes in Constitution? Does this sacred document warrant a thorough overhaul? This question assumes significance in view of the demands by certain political parties and social groups that the Constitution needs to be reviewed and revised.
The Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government had even appointed a National Commission to review the working of the Constitution in the year 2000. The 11-member Commission, headed by former Chief Justice of India Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah, submitted its report two years later, though its recommendations are still gathering dust.
On the eve of the Republic Day, Free Press talked to a cross-section of city-based academicians, former bureaucrats, journalists, politicians and lawyers and asked them whether their views on the topic. Their unanimous opinion is that it was not needed.
Ex-chief minister Babulal Gaur said, “Our Constitution is unique, amazing, strong and mature. I don’t think there is any need for a new Constitution. Yes, changes and improvements can be made from time to time. Yahi to pragatisheel desh ki nishani hai (This is the sign of a progressive nation).
Senior journalist Girijashankar said, “Our Constitution is foolproof. The members of the Constituent Assembly represented almost the entire spectrum of political ideologies. And the Constitution was prepared after deep deliberations and long and informed debates.
“Amendments are always welcome but they should not tinker with the basic spirit of the Constitution. As for a new one, there is absolutely no need for it,” he added. Ex- additional chief secretary Indranil Dani said “No, I didn’t think so. Our Constitution has successfully preserved the democratic character of the country. In the past 70 years, the country has become more united and we have progressed a lot. In fact, our Constitution is stronger and better than the countries which got freedom along with us.”
A professor in NLIU (National Law Institute University), Bhopal, Tapan Mohanty said, “Our Constitution is a living document. It may not be as old as the constitutions of some countries like America, England and France but it is, in no way, inferior or wanting in any respect. The fundamental rights enshrined in it are as relevant today as they were when they were in 1950. So, it may require medicines but not surgery.”
“I don’t think we need a new Constitution. It is also not possible. Jo hai use hi samhalne ki zaroorat hai,” said Sona Shukla, head of Political Science Department, Hamidia Arts and Commerce College, Bhopal. Author Ramesh Chandra Shah said, “I don’t think there is any need of urgency to write a new Constitution. Our Constitution is more liberal that other constitutions across the world.
It stands for secularism and pluralism, adding that, “at the same time, more than 100 amendments have been made to it to date and that is point worth pondering on.” “I think, what we need is proper implementation of the present Constitution rather than a new one,” said Shankar Pawar, an advocate.
