NDTV India hosted the inaugural edition of its annual conclave, NDTV India Samvad, on November 24, 2024, marking a significant moment in India’s democratic journey. The event, titled Samvidhan@75, commemorated 75 years of the Indian Constitution, bringing together a distinguished panel of jurists, political leaders, and intellectuals to discuss the Constitution’s enduring relevance and challenges.
The event featured an impressive lineup of speakers, including Former Chief Justices of India Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud and Justice U.U. Lalit, Minister of Parliamentary Affairs Kiren Rijiju, and former Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. Discussions delved into constitutional principles, judicial independence, and the evolving role of governance in modern India.
- Dr. D.Y. Chandrachud, speaking on judicial appointments, staunchly defended the collegium system, describing it as a “very good system” that preserves judicial independence. He emphasized dispelling misconceptions about the process to maintain trust in the judiciary.
- Justice U.U. Lalit highlighted the secular foundation of the Constitution, stressing that while citizens are free to practice their faiths, the government must remain religion-neutral. He pointed to the recurring challenge of addressing violence stemming from religious intolerance.
- Kiren Rijiju, reflecting on the constitutional amendments during 1976, noted the need for strict adherence to constitutional principles for ensuring progress and unity in the country.
Former Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Qureshi praised India’s unparalleled diversity and outlined the Election Commission’s crucial role in upholding democratic values. He underscored its status as the first institution enshrined in the Constitution, symbolizing India’s commitment to free and fair elections.
A highlight of the event was the felicitation of former Attorney General KK Venugopal, acknowledged for his extraordinary dedication to protecting and advancing the Constitution. His contributions to India’s legal landscape were lauded as exemplary.
Santosh Kumar, Senior Managing Editor at NDTV, introduced the initiative as a platform to facilitate meaningful discussions on pressing national issues. He emphasized that Samvidhan@75 is just the beginning of a series aimed at examining India’s constitutional evolution and future challenges.
The conclave reaffirmed the Constitution’s role as the cornerstone of India’s democracy. It underscored the need to uphold its principles of justice, equality, and accountability to foster an inclusive and fair society.
As India reflects on its constitutional journey, events like NDTV India Samvad serve as a reminder of the collective responsibility to preserve and strengthen the ideals that define the nation’s democratic fabric.
Key Highlights:
- NDTV India launched its first annual conclave, Samvidhan@75, to commemorate 75 years of the Indian Constitution.
- Esteemed speakers, including former Chief Justices and ministers, discussed judicial independence, secularism, and constitutional challenges.
- Former Attorney General KK Venugopal was honored for his commitment to the Constitution.
- NDTV India Samvad aims to provide a platform for discussions on pressing national issues and India’s democratic journey.