WHY REPUBLIC DAY IN JAN 26?

Why is Republic Day Celebrated on January 26 Every Year? Check Here!

Have you ever wondered why the Republic Day of India is always celebrated on January 26 every year?

We are all aware of the fact that Independence Day is celebrated on August 15 since India got its independence on August 15, 1947.

But what's so special about January 26 that it was chosen as the date for Republic Day? Curious to know? Let's get started!

*Why Do We Celebrate Republic Day on January 26?*

The reason behind celebrating Republic Day on January 26 is because it marks the day when the Constitution of India came into effect in 1950. This day is a symbol of India's transition to becoming an independent republic.

India gained its independence on August 15, 1947, after a devastating partition with Pakistan. Since Pakistan was made a separate nation for Muslims, most of them shifted to Pakistan.

However, a significant population of Muslims chose to stay in India, leading to a diverse and multicultural society in the country.

Now, the country consists of all kinds of religions, which include Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Sikhism and more. Therefore, the country needed a governing document to establish itself as a sovereign nation.

Since India included all kinds of religions, it was crucial for the governing document to ensure that all citizens were treated equally and their rights were protected, regardless of their religious beliefs.

This led to the drafting of the Indian Constitution, which guaranteed fundamental rights and freedoms to all individuals living in India, regardless of their religion.

*How did the Indian Constitution Come into Effect on January 26, 1950?*

The Indian Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, marking a significant milestone in India's history as it transitioned from a dominion under British rule to a sovereign, democratic republic.

*1. Historical Context*

This transition was the culmination of a lengthy process of constitutional development that began well before independence.

*Pre-Independence Developments*

Indian Independence Act of 1947: This act marked the end of British rule and established India as a dominion within the British Commonwealth. However, the country was still governed by the Government of India Act of 1935 until a new constitution could be adopted.

Formation of the Constituent Assembly: In 1946, the Constituent Assembly was formed to draft the constitution. This assembly included representatives from various political parties and communities across India, reflecting the diverse fabric of the nation.

*2. Drafting Process*

Drafting Committee: Chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the drafting committee was tasked with creating a comprehensive constitution that would address the needs and aspirations of the Indian populace. The first draft was presented to the assembly in November 1947.

Debates and Revisions: The assembly met over nearly three years, engaging in extensive debates and discussions to refine the draft. Amendments were proposed and debated, ensuring that various viewpoints were considered before finalising the document.

*3. Adoption and Commencement*

*Adoption*

The Constitution was officially adopted on November 26, 1949, after which members of the Constituent Assembly signed it. However, certain provisions related to citizenship, elections, and transitional arrangements came into effect immediately on this date.

*Coming into Effect*

The major part of the Constitution came into force on January 26, 1950. This date was chosen deliberately to honour Purna Swaraj Day, celebrated on January 26, 1930, when the Indian National Congress declared complete independence from British rule. The significance of this date symbolises India's commitment to self-governance and sovereignty.

*4. Legal Implications*

With the adoption of the Constitution:

India ceased to be a dominion under British rule and became a sovereign democratic republic. This change meant that all prior acts of legislation from British rule were repealed, including the Government of India Act of 1935.

The Constitution provided a framework for governance, outlining fundamental rights, duties, and responsibilities for citizens while establishing various branches of government (executive, legislature, judiciary) with checks and balances.


*5. Republic Day Celebrations*

January 26 is celebrated annually as Republic Day in India. The day is marked by grand parades showcasing India's military strength and cultural diversity. The President of India presides over these celebrations, symbolising the unity and integrity of the nation.

*The Connection Between the Purna Swaraj Resolution and Republic Day*

The connection between the Purna Swaraj Resolution and Republic Day is deeply rooted in India's struggle for independence and the establishment of its constitutional framework. Here's a detailed exploration of this connection:

*Purna Swaraj Resolution*

Date and Context: The Purna Swaraj Resolution was passed by the Indian National Congress on January 19, 1929, during its Lahore session.

This resolution declared the demand for complete independence from British rule, rejecting the idea of dominion status offered by the British government.

The term "Purna Swaraj" translates to "complete self-rule" or "total independence" and was a rallying cry for Indian nationalists.

*Public Declaration:* On January 26, 1930, a public declaration was made to commemorate this resolution.

Jawaharlal Nehru, who was then the President of the Congress, hoisted the Indian flag on the banks of the Ravi River in Lahore and called upon Indians to observe this day as Independence Day.

This marked a significant moment in India's freedom struggle, as it galvanised public support for complete independence from colonial rule.

*Transition to Republic Day*

*Post-Independence Developments:* After India gained independence on August 15, 1947, there was a need to establish a formal constitutional framework for governance.

The Constituent Assembly was tasked with drafting a new constitution, which was adopted on November 26, 1949.

*Choosing January 26:* When deciding on a date for the Constitution to come into effect, the members of the Constituent Assembly chose January 26, 1950, to honour the legacy of the Purna Swaraj Resolution.

This date not only commemorated the earlier declaration of independence but also symbolised India's commitment to becoming a sovereign republic.

*Significance of Republic Day*

Celebration of Sovereignty: January 26 is now celebrated as Republic Day, marking the day when India officially became a sovereign, democratic republic. The adoption of the Constitution on this date signifies the culmination of decades of struggle for freedom and self-governance.

Reflection on Purna Swaraj: Republic Day serves as a reminder of the promises made in the Purna Swaraj Resolution. It emphasises the ongoing journey towards realising justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens as enshrined in the Constitution.
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