Gangtok, (IPR): The State-level celebration of the 75th Constitution Day,
observed annually to commemorate the adoption of the Constitution of India, was
held today at Chintan Bhawan as part of the Samvidhan Ka Amrit Mahotsav.
The programme,
organised by the Home department, was attended by Raju Basnet, minister of
Education, Sports and Youth Affairs, Law and Parliamentary Affairs departments
as the chief guest.
He was
accompanied by Kunga Nima Lepcha, Advisor to the Chief Minister, R Telang,
Additional Chief Secretary, Home department, and MLAs, Tenzing Norbu Lamtha and
Sonam Tshering Venchungpa, on the dais.
As part of the
celebratory event, Law and Parliamentary Affairs minister Raju Basnet led the
attendees in reading out the Preamble to the Constitution of India.
While extending
his Constitution Day greetings to everyone, minister Raju Basnet, in his
address, highlighted the enduring importance of the Indian Constitution and
stressed its role as the foundation of the world's largest democracy. He spoke
about the Preamble as a guiding light that reflects our collective aspirations
for justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.
Special
emphasis was laid on Article 371F, unique to Sikkim, which safeguards the State’s
distinct identity and cultural heritage. He reaffirmed the State government's
commitment to upholding the sanctity of this provision while ensuring inclusive
development and constitutional integrity.
He further
urged everyone to uphold the constitutional principles in their personal and
professional lives. Observing Constitution Day, he said, is a reminder of our
duties and an opportunity to connect with the spirit of democracy and national
unity.
An engaging
talk on "Freedom of Speech and Expression in the Digital Age" was
presented by Dr Tshewang Dorjee Lama, principal, Sikkim Government Law College,
wherein he laid out the legal provisions and their implications in the
contemporary digital landscape.
Dr Achina
Kundu, Vice Chancellor, Sikkim National Law University, delivered an insightful
talk on "Evolution and Essence of the Constitution", tracing its
historical development and underlining its role as a living document guiding
India's democratic journey.
During the
course of the event, the Information and Public Relations (IPR) department also
showcased a short film on the fundamental duties and the Constitution.
The event
concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Annapurna Alley, secretary, IPR department.
Earlier, Suraj
Chettri, secretary, Law department delivered the welcome address.
Also present on
the occasion were District Collector Gangtok, Upa-Adhakshyas, Advisors, chairpersons,
former MLAs, principal secretaries, heads of various departments, police
personnel, and other officials and dignitaries.
