Critical Analysis | Shielding Our Liberties with Vigilance - Book Insight
Fresh Take:
Our Living Constitution: An Unfiltered Look at India's Core Values and Looming Threats
Delve into the heart of India's Constitution in Shashi Tharoor's concise yet comprehensive volume, "Our Living Constitution." This book, intended as an introduction and commentary on India's foundational document, is the first in the 'Essential India Editions' series published by Aleph Book Company.
The Indian Constitution, despite being the world's longest, has been subjected to numerous amendments since its inception in 1950. Comprising 448 Articles, 25 Parts, and 12 Schedules, it was the product of years of intense debate under the guidance of Dr Rajendra Prasad, who would later become India's first president, and the principal architect, Dr B.R. Ambedkar.
Book Review: Pakistan, Through Women's EyesTharoor's book masterfully distills the essential elements of the Constitution's history, core principles, and contemporary challenges. Familiar concepts such as democracy, individual liberty, and the balance of power between the executive, legislature, and judiciary are tackled, but Tharoor doesn't shy away from addressing the reality that these principles may not always hold up in practice.
This is a fact that even the visionary Dr Ambedkar recognized. In his warning during the Constitution's presentation, he stated, "even a good Constitution cannot work efficiently unless there is a will to make it work." He questioned whether the people of India would prioritize the nation over their religion.
Book Review: A Tribute to a Multi-talented Feminist IconTharoor's book addresses the emergence of challenges to the Constitution. From the declaration of the Emergency in 1977, which served as a stark reminder of the abuse of power, to the current rise of fundamentalism and sectarianism, the book provides insightful analysis of the threats posed to the Constitution's core principles. These challenges not only undermine the Constitution but also the very idea of a pluralistic, secular, and democratic India.
As a practiced politician, Tharoor offers a unique perspective on the political spectrum, questioning the motives behind certain developments and predicting their consequences. However, he remains optimistic regarding the power of the Indian democratic system to self-correct, as long as the people continue to exercise their rights.
Book Review: A Symphony of Greens in Delhi's Urban JungleIn conclusion, "Our Living Constitution" offers a timely reminder of the importance of the Constitution and the need for citizens to remain vigilant in protecting its values. As the political landscape evolves, it is essential for the people to remain informed, engaged, and committed to safeguarding the principles that define India.
"Our Living Constitution"By Shashi TharoorAleph Book Companypp. 128; Rs 499
Enrichment Insights:- Historical Challenges: Examples include the Emergency declared in 1977, which was a mala fide attempt to undermine the Constitution's authority[3].- Contemporary Threats: The rise of sectarianism, illiberalism, autocrats, and religious fanatics pose significant challenges to the Constitution's core values[5].- Autocratic and Fundamentalist Pressures: Ongoing attempts by autocrats and religious fanatics to alter the Constitution's basic structure necessitate constant vigilance to protect its integrity[5].- Civic and Social Challenges: The need for civic engagement and awareness to safeguard the Constitution and the idea of India is emphasized, with a focus on the role of democracy-loving citizens in reclaiming the republic[5].
- Reading "Our Living Constitution" by Shashi Tharoor opens up a world of knowledge about India's Constitution, offering insights into both its historical challenges like the Emergency and contemporary threats such as the rise of fundamentalism and sectarianism.
- The book underscores the importance of not just understanding the principles enshrined in the Indian Constitution, but also being vigilant in safeguarding them from contemporary challenges, ensuring the Constitution remains a cornerstone of India's pluralistic, secular, and democratic society.
