Ministry of Law and Justice
Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman
Upholding Democracy and Human Rights
Posted On: 22 NOV 2024 2:14PM
Introduction
The Indian Constitution, adopted on 26th November 1949 and coming into effect on 26th January 1950, serves as the foundational document that defines India's democratic, secular, and egalitarian framework. Over the past seven decades, it has guided the nation through political, social, and economic transformations, ensuring justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity—the core principles of India’s governance. These values are celebrated annually on Samvidhan Diwas, or Constitution Day.
Celebrating India's Constitutional Spirit
Constitution Day or Samvidhan Divas is observed annually on 26th November to commemorate the adoption of the Indian Constitution. In a bid to promote constitutional values among citizens, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment announced on 19th November 2015 that the Government of India would celebrate 26th November every year as Constitution Day. This observance serves as a reminder of the democratic principles that guide the nation. As part of this endeavour to build awareness regarding constitutional ideals, the Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman campaign has been launched.
"Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" campaign
In line with this commitment, the "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" campaign, launched on January 24, 2024, by the Hon'ble Vice President of India at the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, aims to deepen citizens' understanding of the Constitution. The yearlong campaign seeks to raise awareness about the significance of the Constitution in shaping Indian society and to educate citizens on their legal rights, ensuring that the foundational principles continue to resonate with every Indian. The campaign promotes the following goals:
- Building Constitutional Awareness: "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" focuses on simplifying and popularizing the Constitution’s core principles for the masses. It helps citizens understand the values of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity that the Constitution promotes. Through regional events, workshops, and seminars, the campaign ensures that people from all backgrounds have access to this essential knowledge.
- Promoting Legal Rights and Responsibilities: The campaign is designed to educate people about their legal rights, duties, and entitlements under the Indian Constitution. This empowers individuals to claim their rights and also ensures that they fulfill their responsibilities toward the nation and society. As part of this initiative, citizens are encouraged to take part in discussions on their rights, including the Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution, such as the right to equality, the right to freedom of speech, and the right to a fair trial.
- Sub-Campaigns and Thematic Initiatives: In addition to the main campaign, three major sub-themes were launched to focus on specific aspects of constitutional knowledge and democratic engagement:
- Sabko Nyay, Har Ghar Nyay: This sub-campaign focuses on ensuring that justice is accessible to every citizen. It promotes awareness of the legal mechanisms in place for citizens to seek justice, whether in the courts, through legal aid services, or through reforms aimed at enhancing the accessibility of legal institutions across India.
- Nav Bharat, Nav Sankalp
This initiative encourages citizens to think of themselves as active participants in the democratic process. The focus is on creating a "new resolve" among citizens to contribute towards building a progressive and inclusive nation by respecting and upholding constitutional values.
- Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan
The Vidhi Jagriti Abhiyaan aims to educate people, especially in rural and underserved areas, about their legal rights and how to access them. The campaign strives to create widespread awareness about the various rights citizens are entitled to under the law, including social welfare benefits, affirmative action policies, and legal protections for marginalized communities.
Regional Events and Outreach Initiatives
The year-long "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" campaign began with its first regional event in Bikaner, inaugurated by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud in March 2024. Regional events have since been held in Bikaner, Prayagraj, and now Guwahati, aiming to engage diverse communities, especially in the Northeast, and promote understanding of the Constitution across India.
Digital Engagement and Citizen Participation
A key element of the "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" campaign is its digital engagement component. Citizens are encouraged to actively participate through the campaign’s dedicated portal, which serves as an online platform for education, engagement, and action. Through this portal, citizens can access resources such as videos, articles, infographics, and quizzes to test their knowledge of the Constitution. It also allows citizens to take pledges and participate in online discussions about the Constitution's role in shaping the future of India.
The Campaign's Role in Shaping India's Vision for 2047
As part of India’s 75th year as a Republic, the "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" campaign supports the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047. It encourages citizens to uphold constitutional values, respect democratic principles, and engage in legal and political processes shaping the nation's future. By promoting constitutional awareness and its practical application, the campaign aims to empower citizens to protect the Constitution and contribute to building an inclusive, democratic, and prosperous India.
Government's Role in Providing Quality Legal Aid
- DISHA (Designing Innovative Solutions for Holistic Access to Justice) Scheme:
The Tele Law Programme under DISHA connects marginalized individuals with Panel Lawyers for free legal advice at the pre-litigation stage through video or telephonic consultations at Common Service Centres (CSCs) at the Panchayat level. Launched in 2017, it is also accessible via the Tele-Law Mobile App. Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) act as intermediaries, bridging the gap between citizens and the service, while Village Level Entrepreneurs (VLEs) assist with registration. State Coordinators ensure effective implementation across States and Union Territories.
- Nyaya Bandhu (Pro Bono Legal Services):
Nyaya Bandhu is a Government of India initiative that connects practicing advocates willing to offer free legal services to marginalized beneficiaries via mobile technology. The Department of Justice aims to strengthen this network by establishing pro bono panels in each High Court, curated and managed by the respective courts. This will ensure the program's effective integration into the judicial system for optimal impact.
Conclusion
Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman reflects India’s unwavering commitment to upholding the principles of justice, equality, and liberty enshrined in the Constitution. The campaign is not only fostering legal awareness but also empowering every citizen, from the village to the urban centers, with the tools to safeguard their rights.
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Santosh Kumar/ Ritu Katria/ Ishita Biswas
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