Government: No Plans to Remove ‘Socialism’ or ‘Secularism’ from Preamble

quick Summary

• The Union government informed the Rajya Sabha that it has “no current plan or intention” to remove the words ‘socialism’ adn ‘secularism’ from the Preamble of the Constitution.
• Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal clarified in a written statement that no formal legal or constitutional process has been initiated by the government to amend these terms.
• The Supreme Court, in November 2024, upheld the 1976 amendment (42nd Constitutional Amendment) and affirmed Parliament’s authority to alter the Preamble while maintaining that ‘socialism’ represents a welfare-oriented state and does not restrict private growth; ‘secularism’ is viewed as central to India’s constitutional framework.
• Discussions led by certain political figures and groups have advocated for revisiting these additions.Most recently, VP Jagdeep Dhankhar termed these changes from Emergency-era amendments as “festering wounds.” though, such views do not reflect any official action so far.
• The government reiterated its stance of requiring extensive deliberation and consensus for any potential amendment but confirmed no active process is underway.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The government’s unequivocal stance on retaining ‘socialism’ and ‘secularism’ reflects an adherence to existing constitutional commitments, possibly aiming at stability amidst public discourse fueled by political statements or advocacy by specific groups. While certain figures like former Vice President Dhankhar have criticized their insertion during Emergency rule, suggesting symbolic overreach at odds with traditional values, there is evidently no momentum within formal governance frameworks toward changing this aspect of India’s foundational identity.

This progress underscores two key points: First, it reinforces judicial clarity about Parliament’s scope concerning Preamble amendments while emphasizing caution due to its symbolic importance; second, it signals recognition of how debates surrounding national identity should ideally transcend partisan motives for broader democratic legitimacy. Any future reexamination would necessitate rigorous public engagement rooted in inclusive deliberation-core tenets of India’s democratic ethos.

Read more at thehindu.com