On 1st September 1949 at the Constituent Assembly, Dr. P. S. Deshmukh spoke as follows;
“If anybody were to contend to that effect because there all entries in list 2 and 3 therefore say that entry is not necessary, by submission to the house is that those entries do not cover the case. I have in view. We were very rightly and properly taken pain to have an entry in the article with regard to exploitation of children and youth in our directive principle, and therefore it follows logically that the union are to be empowered to pass legislation in this effect. I do not think I need draw the attention of the house as how children in this country are neglected, how destitute children wander about at the railway junction and railway station near and about cinema theatres and bus stand, etc. In our country one easily get the impression that the children are the cheapest of article. If only we analyze our attitude towards them, one get the impression that even sewerage and dirt is more valuable than children. I am glad that we have taken care to include this in our directive principles and if we are serious about our directive principles, then the union should have the power to legislate in this matter and to take early steps to remedy the present abominable situation. From this point of view, Sir, I present that this entry be accepted by the house.“
Mr. President: has Dr. Ambedkar anything to say on this.
The Honourable Dr. B. R. Ambedkar: No Sir, I have nothing to say in reply. Young men and young women are capable of taking care of themselves, why bother them?
Mr. President: The question is that “after the proposed new entry 70A of List I the following entry may be added –
“70B protection of children and young men from exploitation and abandonment”
“The amendment was negatived”
This is attitude of the ancient framers of the Constitution, both having positive and negative view. It was stressed by the mover of the amendment to take early steps to remedy the present abominable situation. The mover was not aware perhaps early steps will commence only after elapse of 7 decades or 71 years.