Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday wrote a public letter to mark Constitution Day. He shared emotional memories and expressed gratitude toward India’s Constitution. In his open letter, he reflected on how the Constitution made opportunities possible for people from all backgrounds, including himself.

“It is the power of our Constitution that enabled a person like me, coming from a humble and economically disadvantaged family, to serve as the Head of the Government continuously for over 24 years,” PM Modi wrote.

Adding to it he mentioned that, “I still remember the moments in 2014, when I came to Parliament for the first time and bowed, touching the steps of the greatest temple of democracy. Again, in 2019, after the election results, when I entered the Central Hall of Samvidhan Sadan, I bowed and placed the Constitution on my forehead as a mark of reverence. This Constitution has given several others, like me, the power to dream and the strength to work towards it”.

PM Modi remembered the historic moment when the Constitution was adopted in 1949. He said that the Government decided in 2015 to celebrate November 26 as Constitution Day to honour this important document and its lasting role in shaping India’s development.

PM Modi criticises previous government

PM Modi also criticised the previous Congress government, saying the 60th anniversary of the Constitution was not given proper national recognition. “My mind goes back to the year 2010. This was when the Constitution of India completed 60 years. Sadly, the occasion did not receive the attention it deserved at a national level,” he wrote. 

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He added that to show respect, a ‘Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra’ was organised in Gujarat. “But, to express our collective gratitude and commitment to the Constitution, we organised a ‘Samvidhan Gaurav Yatra’ in Gujarat. Our Constitution was placed on an elephant and I, along with several other people from different walks of life, had the honour of being part of the procession,” PM Modi wrote.

Focus on voting and youth participation

In his letter, PM Modi also talked about the importance of voting and strengthening democracy. He suggested that schools and colleges should celebrate Constitution Day by recognising first-time voters. He said that encouraging the youth in this way will help build stronger democratic values.

“Our Constitution has given us the right to vote. As citizens, it is our duty to never miss the opportunity to vote in national, state and local elections where we are registered. In order to inspire others, we can think of organising special ceremonies every 26th November in schools and colleges to celebrate those youngsters who are turning 18. This way our first-time voters will feel that in addition to being students, they are also active participants in the process of nation-building,” PM Modi wrote.

PM Modi hails Mahatma Gandhi’s belief 

PM Modi also mentioned Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that duties come first, and rights naturally follow. He said that fulfilling responsibilities helps society and the economy grow stronger.

He added that the decisions and policies made today will affect future generations and that duties should remain a priority as India works toward becoming a developed nation.

“Inspired by this, as we move forward to realise the dream of a Viksit Bharat, we must always place our duties towards our nation foremost in our minds,” PM Modi wrote.

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In another message posted on X (formerly Twitter), he said, “Our Constitution gives utmost importance to human dignity, equality and liberty. While it empowers us with rights, it also reminds us of our duties as citizens, which we should always try to fulfil. These duties are the foundation of a strong democracy.”

He also honoured those who created the Constitution and appreciated their contribution.

“Their vision and foresight continue to motivate us in our pursuit of building a Viksit Bharat,” PM added.