Why is Republic Day Celebrated on January 26 Every Year? Check Here!

Why is Republic Day Celebrated on January 26 Every Year? Check Here!

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Have you ever wondered why India’s Republic Day is always celebrated on January 26 every year?

Good essay

We all know that Independence Day is celebrated on 15th August since India became independent on 15th August 1947.

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But, what is so special about January 26, the date it was chosen as Republic Day? Curious to know? Let’s get started!

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Why do we celebrate Republic Day on January 26?

The reason why Republic Day is celebrated on January 26 is because it marks the day when the Indian Constitution came into effect in 1950. This day is a symbol of India’s transition to an independent republic.

India gained independence on August 15, 1947, after a devastating partition with Pakistan. Since Pakistan was ascribed to Muslims as a separate country, most of the people moved to Pakistan.

However, a large number of Muslims chose to stay in India, resulting in a diverse and multicultural society in the country.

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The country is now made up of various religions including Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Sikhism, etc. Therefore, the country needs a governing document to establish itself as a sovereign state.

Since India encompasses various religions, it is crucial for the governing documents to ensure equal treatment and protection of the rights of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs.

This led to the drafting of the Indian Constitution, which guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms to all individuals in India, regardless of their religious beliefs.

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How did the Indian Constitution come into effect on January 26, 1950?

The Constitution of India came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking a significant milestone in India’s history as it transitioned from being under British rule to a sovereign, democratic republic.

1. historical background

This transition was the culmination of a long process of constitutional development that began before independence.

pre-independence development

  • Indian Independence Act 1947: This act marked the end of British rule and established India as a Commonwealth of Nations. However, the country remains governed by the Government of India Act 1935 until a new constitution can be adopted.
  • Formation of the Constituent Assembly: In 1946, a Constituent Assembly was formed to draft the constitution. The Parliament includes representatives from various political parties and communities in India, reflecting the various structures of the country.

2. drafting process

  • Drafting Committee: Chaired by Dr. BR Ambedkar, the Drafting Committee was tasked with formulating a comprehensive constitution that would meet the needs and aspirations of the people of India. The first draft was submitted to the General Assembly in November 1947.
  • Debate and Revision: The General Assembly met over nearly three years and conducted extensive debate and discussion to refine the draft. Amendments are proposed and debated to ensure that a variety of views are considered before the document is finalized.

3. Adoption and schooling

use

The constitution was formally adopted on November 26, 1949, and signed by members of its Constituent Assembly. However, certain provisions relating to citizenship, elections and transitional arrangements take effect immediately on this date.

Take effect

The main parts of the constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950. The date was deliberately chosen to commemorate Purna Swaraj Day, which was celebrated on January 26, 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared complete independence from British rule. The significance of this date symbolizes India’s commitment to autonomy and sovereignty.

4. legal significance

With the adoption of the Constitution:

  • India ceased to be a dominion under the British and became a sovereign democratic republic. This change meant that all previous legislative acts of British rule were repealed, including the Government of India Act 1935.
  • The Constitution provides a framework for governance, outlining the fundamental rights, duties and responsibilities of citizens, while establishing the various branches of government (executive, legislative, judicial).

5. republic day celebrations

Republic Day is celebrated every year in India on January 26. The day is characterized by grand parades showcasing India’s military might and cultural diversity. The President of India presides over these celebrations, symbolizing the unity and integrity of the country.

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Link between Purna Swaraj Resolution and Republic Day

The connection between the Purna Swaraj resolution and Republic Day is deeply rooted in India’s struggle to achieve independence and establish its constitutional framework. Here is a detailed exploration of this connection:

Purna Swaraj Resolution

  • Date and Background: On January 19, 1929, the Indian National Congress passed the Purna Swaraj resolution at its Lahore session.
  • The resolution declared a demand for complete independence from British rule, rejecting the offer of dominance by the British government.
  • The term “Purna Swaraj” translates to “complete self-rule” or “complete independence” and is a rallying cry for Indian nationalists.
  • Public Statement: On January 26, 1930, a public statement was issued to commemorate this resolution.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru, then Congress president, hoisted the Indian flag on the banks of the Ravi River in Lahore and appealed to Indians to observe the day as independence Day.
  • This marked an important moment in India’s freedom struggle as it galvanized public support for complete independence from colonial rule.

Transition to Republic Day

  • Post-Independence Developments: After India gained independence on August 15, 1947, there was a need to establish a formal constitutional framework for governance.
  • The Constituent Assembly was tasked with drafting a new constitution, which was adopted on November 26, 1949.
  • January 26 chosen: When deciding on the date on which the Constitution would come into effect, the members of the Constitutional Assembly chose January 26, 1950, to commemorate the legacy of the Purna Swaraj resolution.
  • The date not only commemorates the early declaration of independence but also symbolizes India’s promise to become a sovereign republic.

meaning of republic day

  • Celebrating Sovereignty: January 26 is now celebrated as Republic Day, marking the day India officially became a sovereign, democratic republic. The adoption of today’s constitution represents the culmination of decades of struggle for freedom and autonomy.
  • Reflections on Purna Swaraj: Republic Day can serve as a reminder of the promises made in the Purna Swaraj resolutions. It emphasizes the ongoing journey of all citizens towards justice, liberty, equality and fraternity as enunciated in the Constitution.

Source: https://dinhtienhoang.edu.vn
Category: Optical Illusion