Mumbai: NDTV hosted the inaugural edition of ‘NDTV INDIA SAMVAD’—Samvidhan@75, a special tribute marking 75 years of the Indian Constitution, on November 24. The conclave brought together a distinguished group of leaders, legal scholars, and visionary thinkers for an engaging day of insightful discussions on the enduring values embedded in the Constitution.
The first edition of NDTV India Samvad featured comprehensive discussions on various aspects of the Constitution, celebrating its 75th anniversary. Notable personalities who participated included Dr. Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, the 50th Chief Justice of India; Kiren Rijiju, Minister of Parliamentary and Minority Affairs; Justice Uday Umesh Lalit, Former Chief Justice of India; Ravi Shankar Prasad, Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha (BJP) & Former Law Minister; and several other prominent figures.
Justice Chandrachud passionately advocated for the collegium system of appointing judges, which he argued is crucial for the federal structure of India. He described it as “a very good system” and addressed misconceptions surrounding its operation.
During the event, NDTV also honored Shri KK Venugopal, former Attorney General of India, for his exceptional service in safeguarding India’s Constitution.
Kiren Rijiju highlighted the most significant attack on the Constitution in 1976, stressing the importance of adhering to its principles for national development. “If we follow what is written in the Constitution, India will develop,” Rijiju stated.
In discussions regarding judges transitioning to politics, Chief Justice Chandrachud emphasized that judges, after retirement, have the right to engage in any lawful profession. However, he noted that “society holds judges to a higher standard of behavior,” adding that it is up to judges to decide what is appropriate for them post-retirement.
Justice U.U. Lalit raised an important point about religious freedom, stating that the Constitution does not endorse any government religion. He remarked, “Every citizen has the right to adopt their own religion. However, violence and riots in the name of religion have marred this country.” He reflected on the historical impact of the 1947 riots, stating that while India has made significant progress in the past 75 years, such issues continue to arise.
Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Qureshi underscored India’s unmatched diversity and the critical role of the Election Commission, which was the first institution enshrined in the Constitution.
NDTV’s Senior Managing Editor Santosh Kumar expressed that NDTV India Samvad marks the beginning of a series designed to facilitate discussions on critical national issues. He explained that Samvidhan@75 is the first installment, adding, “As the country celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Constitution, this special program will add a new dimension to the occasion.”
The dialogues throughout the day emphasized the Constitution’s pivotal role in India’s democratic evolution, continuing to uphold its core principles of justice, equality, and the protection of fundamental rights.
