Elections campaigning and Indian constitution

Source-This post on Elections campaigning and Indian constitution has been created based on the article “The Constitution unites all of us as free citizens” published in “Mint” on 6 May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus – GS Paper-2– Indian Constitution—Historical Underpinnings, Evolution, Features, Amendments, Significant Provisions and Basic Structure.

Context-The Indian Constitution has rarely been a major campaign issue in national elections. However, in the current election, the ruling party and opposition party have accused each other of planning to twist the Constitution for partisan ends regarding affirmative action policies. Elections campaigning and Indian constitution

What specific issue is causing this debate over the Constitution?

The main problem is affirmative action, especially the quotas for jobs and education. Both the political parties have opposing views on it.

What is the debate surrounding the amendment of the constitution?

1) The author acknowledges that the Constitution is not perfect and thus can be subject to debate and reason. It mentions Amartya Sen’s idea that rationality and freedom go hand in hand, and the Constitution reflects the freedom achieved through peace.

2) Even personal opinions about changing the Constitution, such as those shared by the Prime Minister’s economic advisory council chief, are misunderstood as signs of trouble by critics. As a confident country that embraces different viewpoints, one shouldn’t shy away from discussing such topics.

Read more- Caste Census Significance and Challenges

What principles of the Constitution are deemed essential and non-negotiable?

The Judiciary has described the Constitution’s ‘basic structure’ that includes fundamental rights like the right to equality, life and liberty. These rights must always be respected.

 What should be the way forward?

1) The universal promises of the Indian Republic that assure stability should be upheld.

2) Before making any amendment, there is a need to focus on the Constitution’s main principles that everyone agrees on. This approach can maintain the stability and unity of the nation while allowing for constructive debate and evolution of the Constitution.

Question for practice

What specific issue is causing this debate over the Constitution? Highlight the principles of the Constitution that are deemed essential and non-negotiable?