Punjab Newsline, Bathinda-
The Central University of Punjab observed the 56th Samvidhan Diwas (Constitution Day) with a series of academic and awareness-oriented activities aimed at reinforcing constitutional values among the campus community. The celebrations were conducted in accordance with the guidelines of the Department of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Law & Justice, and were jointly organised by the Dr. Ambedkar Chair on Human Rights & Environmental Values, the Department of Law, and the Department of South and Central Asian Studies. The programme featured a Quiz Competition, Mass Reading of the Preamble, an Invited Expert Lecture and a Discussion Session.
A major highlight of the celebration was the Invited Lecture titled “Constitution as a Bridge: Dr. Ambedkar’s Vision on Indian Unity,” delivered by distinguished scholar Prof. Ronki Ram, Department of Political Science, Panjab University, Chandigarh. Prof. Ram stated that the Constitution serves as a symbol of Indian independence and a collective instrument for resolving societal challenges. He asserted that the Constitution is not merely a legal document but a moral and philosophical charter intended to guide the nation toward justice-based social transformation.
Discussing the philosophical foundations and contemporary relevance of the Constitution, Prof. Ram drew attention to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s warnings against the “grammar of anarchy” and the dangers of hero worship in a democracy. He emphasised that the true constitutional spirit lies in transforming political democracy into social democracy, driven by the principles of “one person, one vote and one value.” He reiterated the need to uphold constitutional morality to ensure social harmony and inclusive nation-building.
Delivering the presidential address, Hon’ble Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raghavendra P. Tiwari applauded the organisers and participants for celebrating Samvidhan Diwas in an intellectually enriching manner. Reflecting on Babasaheb’s philosophy, he reiterated that education and cultivation of the mind form the foundation of human progress. Prof. Tiwari further emphasised Dr. Ambedkar’s timeless idea that “equality, liberty and fraternity” must operate as an interlinked trinity for a just and harmonious social order. He inspired students to embody these constitutional values through cooperation, collaboration and compassion, and urged them to become responsible and socially committed citizens dedicated to national service and social harmony.
The programme commenced with a Quiz Competition on the Constitution of India, which witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and research scholars. This was followed by a Discussion Session on the theme “Has the Doctrine of Separation of Powers trumped the ideal of Federal Structure: Presidential Reference No. 01 of 2025?” The session witnessed active engagement from participants who shared their views on evolving constitutional interpretations. Toward the conclusion of the event, the university community joined in the Mass Reading of the Preamble, reaffirming their commitment to the democratic ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
Prominent among those present were Prof. Bawa Singh (Department of SCAS), Dr. Puneet Pathak (Head, Department of Law), Dr. Jagmeet Bawa, and faculty members from various departments, along with research scholars and students who attended the event. The Samvidhan Diwas celebration underscored the university’s dedication to promoting constitutional awareness and fostering responsible citizenship.