Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, addressing the Lok Sabha during a discussion marking the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution, praised the document as not only the longest in the world but also the most remarkable and beautiful. Rijiju’s comments highlighted the enduring relevance of the Constitution and the vision of its principal architect, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Rijiju reflected on his personal journey, recalling his roots in a region where infrastructure development was minimal. “I come from a region where I saw airplanes before I saw cars, as roads were built only after I became an MP. When Prime Minister Modi gave me the opportunity to sit in the place where Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar once sat, it was a moment of great honor,” he said. The minister shared that, prior to his tenure as the law minister, he had delved deeply into Ambedkar’s vision for the Constitution and the aspirations he had for the nation.
Discussing Ambedkar’s legacy, Rijiju addressed the widespread misinterpretation of his ideas and writings, especially after his death. He emphasized that Ambedkar’s renunciation of Hinduism stemmed from his opposition to caste-based practices rather than hostility toward the religion itself. “Babasaheb Ambedkar never spoke against any religion. He fought against untouchability and sought a religion that upheld equality. When he embraced Buddhism, it was to follow a path free of caste hierarchy. However, he passed away just months later, leaving much of his vision unshared,” Rijiju remarked.
The minister criticized the posthumous misrepresentation of Ambedkar’s thoughts, asserting that claims suggesting Ambedkar’s rejection of Hinduism aimed to promote hostility were inaccurate. Rijiju noted that Ambedkar’s commitment was always to social equality and justice.
The Lok Sabha’s debate, initiated on December 13, saw passionate speeches by leaders, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Wayanad MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, commemorating the historic milestone of the Constitution’s adoption. However, the winter session of Parliament, which began on November 25, has been marked by frequent disruptions, often leading to early adjournments. Despite these challenges, the session is set to continue until December 20, providing a platform for discussions on critical national issues.
Rijiju’s reflections underscored the timeless significance of the Indian Constitution and its role in fostering unity and justice in the world’s largest democracy.
