75th Constitution Day celebration
SHILLONG/TURA, Nov 26: Judge of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice HS Thangkhiew, on Tuesday emphasised the importance of safeguarding India’s secular nature, while noting that the Constitution of India is a living document that guides the country’s journey as a Republic.
Addressing a programme as part of Constitution Day celebrations at District Prisons & Correctional Home, East Khasi Hills District, Justice Thangkhiew said, “Secularism unites us, ensuring we’re defined by our shared humanity, not differences. Our Constitution promotes respecting and celebrating India’s diverse languages, cultures and traditions.”
Noting that the Constitution of India is a living document that must be interpreted in light of contemporary realities, he said, “The Constitution is a dynamic living instrument guiding our journey as a Republic. It is not just a set of rules, but a document that’s entrusted to each generation to enrich, interpret, and keep relevant to all Indians, regardless of their background.”
“As we commemorate Constitution Day, we reaffirm our commitment to the spirit of the Constitution, upholding the ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. Let us pledge to preserve its words and uphold its ideals in our daily lives, safeguarding the secular and democratic fabric of our nation,” Justice Thangkhiew, who is also the Executive Chairman of Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority, said.
Speaking on the rights and responsibilities, he said the task before everyone today is not just to remember the Constitution’s lofty ideals, “but to examine how we, as citizens and as a society, are living up to those ideals”.
Justice Thangkhiew also spoke on the services and benefits being provided by the Legal Services Authorities, through the State Legal Services Authority, District Legal Services Authority and High Court Legal Services Committee meant for the needy the marginalised sections of society including people in correctional facilities.
On the occasion, he also urged the gathering to seek the services of the Legal Services Authorities through the Legal Aid Clinics set up in all district jails.
He said through the Legal Aid Clinics, inmates can seek legal assistance, be represented in courts, file appeals, and seek assistance from the Legal Aid Counsels, Para Legal Volunteers and Legal Aid Defense Counsels for free legal aid and representation in courts and police stations.
Organised by the High Court of Meghalaya in collaboration with the Meghalaya State Legal Services Authority, the programme was also attended by High Court of Meghalaya Registrar General E. Kharumnuid, judicial officers, law practitioners, jail inmates, et al.
On the occasion, legal awareness sessions were also conducted for the jail inmates.
Celebration at ICFAI University
The NSS Unit of the ICFAI University Meghalaya, Shillong Campus also celebrated Constitution Day with a programme here.
The event began with the National Anthem, which was followed by the NSS song performed by the ICFAI choir.
During the programme, NSS programme coordinator, Bawan P Ryntathiang, emphasised the purpose and foundation of the Constitution of India.
Highlighting the five essential values enshrined in the Constitution, she urged everyone to honour the legacy of the Constitution.
The program concluded with all attendees—NSS volunteers, programme officers and teachers—taking the Preamble pledge.
Tura commemorates Constitution Day
In West Garo Hills, a programme was organised by the district administration at DRDA Conference Hall, Tura, to commemorate the day.
During the programme, West Garo Hills Deputy Commissioner Jagdish Chelani led the gathering in reading the Preamble in the presence of West Garo Hills Superintendent of Police Abraham T Sangma, additional deputy commissioners, along with other officials.
During the programme, the exemplary services of West Garo Hills district police, Border Security Force (BSF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) were recognised.