This is part of the series of articles on The Constitution of India and The Constituent Assembly that Mr. N. Panchaksaramoorthy has consented to write in our Website for the benefit of today’s generation. Extracts of Prof. N. G. Ranga’s speech.

On 9th Nov 1948, Prof. N. G. Ranga (Madras General), lamented as follows:- “Mr.Vice President, I am sorry to find that the members of the Drafting Committee have completely forgotten the very fundamental things that was really responsible for  bringing this constituent assembly into existence and for giving them this chance of drafting this constitution for India. One would have thought that it would be there elementary duty to have suggested to us that this Constitution is being framed by the Constituent Assembly, which has been brought into existence by the labours of countless martyrs and freedom fighters in this country guided and led by Mahatma Gandhi, but not a word have been said in regard to this matter.”

“Therefore, I suggest that we should make it clear that this constituent assembly comes into existence after India has attained from the inspiring leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of our Nation, and that we are greatful for the unremitting struggle of the countless men and women to regain the Right of Independence for our Nation. This is the least, that you can possibly say in appreciation for the services by those martyrs in our freedom struggle. And, I hope the house will make neccessary amendment later on in this regard.”

I, expect that the reader of the Constitution shall interpret its provision in accordance with Gandhian spirit.

Also read: COMMON CIVIL CODE – ARTICLE 44