Indian Constitution longest and most beautiful: Rijiju

Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Saturday criticised successive Congress governments for failing to prepare a roadmap for a developed India (Viksit Bharat) despite their long tenure in power.

Speaking during a discussion on the Constitution in the Lok Sabha, Rijiju praised the all-inclusive character of the Constitution, emphasising its safeguards for minority rights, including those of Muslims.

Rijiju highlighted that the Constitution’s inclusive and progressive nature has made India a preferred destination for minorities seeking refuge from across the world. He commended its provisions for equality, freedom and minority rights, calling it the “longest and most beautiful” Constitution.

The minister also lauded specific laws protecting minority rights, such as the Indian Christian Marriage Act, Muslim Women Protection of Rights on Marriage Act, Dargah Khwaja Saheb Act, Anand Marriage Act and Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act. He asserted that India not only provides legal safeguards for minorities but also offers affirmative action to protect their interests.

Acknowledging that successive governments, including Congress-led ones, have worked for minority welfare, Rijiju criticised the Congress for neglecting certain aspects of development. He highlighted that it was under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership that initiatives such as the celebration of the Constitution Day were introduced. Rijiju questioned why previous governments did not think of celebrating the Constitution despite its significance.

Reflecting on Dr BR Ambedkar’s contributions, Rijiju addressed misconceptions, clarifying that Ambedkar’s fight was against social inequalities, not Hindus. He also noted differences between Ambedkar and Pandit Nehru on issues like reservations for socially backward communities. Rijiju criticised the Congress for not conferring the Bharat Ratna on Ambedkar earlier, despite honouring many of its own leaders with the award.

The minister also condemned Congress-era policies for economic stagnation and lack of development, particularly in border areas near the Chinese frontier. He accused past governments of neglecting road construction in these regions due to fears of Chinese incursions. Rijiju highlighted that under the Modi government, the Northeast has seen significant improvements in road and rail connectivity.

“Why couldn’t India become a Viksit Bharat after so many years of Independence?” Rijiju asked, contrasting Congress’s track record with the initiatives undertaken by the NDA government in the past decade.