Constitutional Duties Foundation for Strong Democracy: PM Modi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday urged citizens to fulfil their Constitutional duties, calling them the foundation of a strong democracy. He stressed that strengthening democracy requires every citizen to exercise their right to vote and suggested that schools and colleges celebrate Constitution Day by honouring first-time voters turning 18.

In a letter to citizens on Constitution Day, Modi recalled Mahatma Gandhi’s belief that rights flow from the performance of duties, noting that fulfilling one’s duties is essential for social and economic progress. He also remembered the contributions of Rajendra Prasad, B.R. Ambedkar and others involved in drafting the Constitution.

The Prime Minister paid tributes to the leadership of Vallabhbhai Patel, Birsa Munda and Mahatma Gandhi in the freedom struggle.

“All these personalities and milestones remind us of the primacy of our duties, which the Constitution highlights through a dedicated chapter on Fundamental Duties in Article 51A. These duties guide us in achieving collective social and economic progress,” he said. He recalled Gandhi’s belief that well-performed duties naturally create corresponding rights.

Emphasising that today’s decisions will shape future generations, Modi urged citizens to keep their duties foremost as India moves toward the goal of a Viksit Bharat.

“Our country has given us so much, and this inspires a deep sense of gratitude. When we live with this feeling, fulfilling our duties becomes natural. To perform our duties, we must put our full effort and dedication into every task,” he said.

“Every action of ours should strengthen the Constitution and advance national goals. It is our responsibility to fulfil the dreams of the framers of our Constitution. When we work with this sense of duty, India’s social and economic progress multiplies,” he added.

Modi noted that Sardar Patel’s leadership ensured India’s political unification and said his inspiration guided the government’s actions on Articles 370 and 35(A). “The Constitution is now fully in force in Jammu and Kashmir, ensuring all constitutional rights for the people, especially women and marginalised communities,” he said.

He added that the life of Birsa Munda continues to inspire India in ensuring justice, dignity and empowerment for tribal communities. Reiterating that the Constitution grants citizens the right to vote, he said, “It is our duty to never miss the opportunity to vote in national, state and local elections.”

Striking a personal note, Modi said it was the Constitution that enabled someone from a humble, economically disadvantaged background like him to serve as head of government for over 24 years. He recalled bowing at the steps of Parliament in 2014 and placing the Constitution on his forehead in 2019 as a mark of reverence.

“This Constitution has given many people like me the power to dream and the strength to pursue those dreams,” he said.