Dr. Satyawan Saurabh
India is set to celebrate its 76th Republic Day on January 26, 2025, a poignant reminder of the goals, principles, and sacrifices of countless individuals who fought for the freedom and integrity of our country. Reflecting on what we have gained and lost over these years evokes mixed emotions. The question, “What was lost?” often feels inappropriate because what was lost is tied to what was gained. Both our republic and independence were new achievements in 1947. The preservation of this independence and our republic is arguably our greatest accomplishment. Over the past 25 years, India has maintained its diversity and unity despite continuous proxy wars, domestic issues, and international terrorism.
India faced three primary challenges during this journey. The first was uniting the country while respecting the diversity of Indian society. India’s size and diversity are comparable to that of a continent, encompassing various cultures, religions, and languages. People at the time doubted whether such a diverse nation could remain united for long. Partition fueled these concerns, raising questions about whether India could maintain its unity and territorial integrity.
The second challenge was ensuring democracy’s survival. India adopted parliamentary governance under a representative democracy, granting every citizen the right to vote and fundamental rights under the Constitution. However, merely drafting a democratic constitution was not enough; implementing its principles in practice was a significant hurdle.
The third challenge was development.
On Republic Day, we introspect and evaluate our achievements and failures while identifying challenges and goals for the future. India has indeed made remarkable progress in many areas, such as literature, sports, agriculture, science, and technology. Our diverse culture has been preserved and enriched, and the nation has built a strong global identity in various fields. Despite these achievements, socio-economic inequality persists, undermining the political equality envisioned by our Constitution.
Corruption, pollution, overpopulation, and crimes such as rape continue to plague the nation. These issues have deeply scarred India, making it feel as though our republic is entangled in thorny bushes. Discontent and anger among the youth are growing, often steering them in the wrong direction. Electoral corruption and misuse of power have distorted the political landscape, eroding the legitimacy of politics.
Social evils like caste discrimination, atrocities against Dalits, and violence by caste-based groups remain prevalent. Issues of provincialism and regional identity overshadow national unity, with people identifying more with their states or castes rather than as Indians. The plight of farmers facing debt, hunger, and displacement has driven many to suicide, and Naxalism serves as a grim reminder of unaddressed grievances. Women and girls are increasingly insecure, with incidents of rape occurring at alarming rates. Leaders’ irresponsible remarks only add to the demoralization.
Furthermore, the fundamental principle of freedom of expression enshrined in our Constitution is often violated, posing a serious threat to democracy. These challenges demand urgent action.
On this momentous occasion, we must pause and turn our reflections into concrete actions. It is time to address these issues collectively and strengthen our republic to fulfill the aspirations of its people.
(Note: Dr. Satyawan Saurabh Poet, freelance journalist, and columnist,
All India Radio and TV Panelist)
