Nation’s Secularism a Collective Choice, Says J. Chelameswar

Swift Summary:

• Former Supreme Court judge J. Chelameswar spoke at a lecture in kochi titled ‘Clamour for removal of Secularism & socialism: Whether justified?’ organized by the Ernakulam Law College Old Students’ Association.
• He emphasized that civil society’s maturity ultimately preserves or destroys the Constitution, stating constitutional values like secularism depend on collective determination by citizens.
• justice Chelameswar highlighted the need to view all human beings beyond their cultural practices and called for introspection on whether India truly ensures freedom of conscience and liberty for all.
• He discussed socialism in past context, noting that Jawaharlal Nehru had envisaged it as a tool to combat poverty but later governments deviated from its principles, notably under Narasimha rao and Manmohan Singh during economic reforms.
• The lecture was presided over by former Supreme Court judge K.M.Joseph, with Kerala Minister P. Rajeeve in attendance.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

Justice J. Chelameswar’s remarks shed light on critical themes regarding India’s constitutional framework-secularism and socialism-and their relevance amidst evolving societal dynamics. His commentary underscores the foundational role citizens play in upholding these principles through collective action and conscientious dialog about liberty and equality across diverse faiths.

The historical lens provided on socialism situates contemporary economic shifts within broader ideological transformations, highlighting pragmatic deviations when survival necessitated adaptation. Rather than suggesting blame or judgment, his analysis offers valuable viewpoint into how constitutional ethos might ebb yet retain underlying meaning. For India, these reflections serve as a reminder of vigilance needed among legal practitioners, policymakers, and civil society to ensure harmony remains central to its democratic fabric.

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