North News
New Delhi, December 9
Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar on Monday emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles amid recent Parliament disruptions, calling on Members of Parliament to ensure the aspirations of India’s founding leaders continue to guide present-day policies.
Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Dhankhar reflected on a significant moment in India’s democratic history—the first sitting of the Constituent Assembly on December 9, 1946, after its formation three days earlier. This session marked the beginning of drafting the Constitution of India, which remains the foundation of the Republic.
“The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was chaired by Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha, the oldest member, who had served in the Imperial Legislative Council and the Central Legislative Assembly,” Dhankhar noted. He added that the Assembly had received congratulatory messages from the U.S., China, and Australia.
Dhankhar paid tribute to the leaders of the Constituent Assembly, including Dr. Rajendra Prasad, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, highlighting their unity in shaping the country’s democratic framework despite their ideological differences.
“The Rajya Sabha derives its strength from the Constitution’s principles. It is our responsibility to protect these values, ensuring they resonate in today’s policies,” he said. Dhankhar urged MPs to draw inspiration from the Constituent Assembly’s commitment to constructive dialogue and mutual respect.
He further emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity and diligence of Parliament’s work, urging MPs to adhere to high standards and foster respectful discourse in all proceedings.
