On the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed a joint sitting of Parliament, drawing on the words of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar to caution political parties against putting creed above the nation. Speaking in the Central Hall of Parliament, where the Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, Dhankhar emphasized the importance of unity and national interest.
Quoting Ambedkar, Dhankhar highlighted the dangers of political fragmentation, referring to Ambedkar’s warning that India could lose its independence if political parties prioritize creed over country. “Will Indians place the country above their creed or will they place the creed above the country? If the latter occurs, our independence will be in jeopardy a second time,” Dhankhar said, echoing Ambedkar’s concern.
The Vice President further stressed that such divisions must be resisted to safeguard the nation’s independence, saying, “We must be determined to defend our independence with the last drop of our blood.” His remarks came during a session attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, and opposition leaders including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi.
Dhankhar also appealed to MPs to restore decorum and discipline in parliamentary discourse. Referring to recent disruptions in both Houses of Parliament, he called for constructive dialogue and meaningful discussions to better serve the people. “The time has come to restore the sanctity of democratic institutions through dialogue, debate, and meaningful discussion,” he said, stressing the importance of a functioning Parliament.
Additionally, Dhankhar reminded MPs of the Constitution’s core principle: “We the People of India,” which places ultimate authority in the hands of the citizens, with Parliament serving as their voice. He also underlined the significance of the separation of powers between the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary, urging MPs to respect these boundaries for the country’s prosperity and democracy.
The Vice President’s address, marking a historic moment in the Constitution’s journey, underscored the need for national unity, disciplined parliamentary functioning, and adherence to constitutional principles to steer India toward greater success and equity.
