Rajnath Critical Of Insertion Of ‘Secular’ In Constitution’s Preamble

26 November, New Delhi

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Thursday criticised the amendment of the Preamble of Constitution through 42nd amendment for inserting words ‘socialism and secular’, holding that the Preamble is the soul of the Constitution and this should not have been amended.

Initiating a two-day debate on ‘Commitment to India’s Constitution’ in the Lok Sabha, Singh also held that no dilution will be effected in the reservation system evolved by Baba Sahib Bhimrao Ambedkar.

Highlighting the life and work of Dr Ambedkar, the Home Minister also made sarcastic reference, apparently against comments of actor Aamir Khan over the issue of ‘intolerance’ that evoked sharp protests from the Treasury benches.

Singh targetted the previous Congress-led UPA government for adding ‘socialist and ‘secular’ in the Preamble, holding that this was not required.

Amid noise from the Congress Members, Singh said Baba Saheb Ambedkar didn’t find it necessary to insert ‘Socialist’ & ‘Secular’ words in the Preamble because he felt ”it was already in our basic nature”.

”That is, because India in fact has been ‘panth-nirpeksh’ (secular in character) traditionally,” he added.

Expressing strong opinion over misuse of the word ‘secular’, he said “Aaj ki rajneeti mein yadi kisi shabd ka sarvaadhik durupyog ho raha hai to woh ‘Secular’ shabd ka” (If there is is any word which is being misused in Indian politics, that is ‘secular’).”

“Socialist and secular — these two words were inserted, I do not say that I don’t believe in them, ‘jo ho gaya so ho gaya’ (done is done), he stated amid protests by Congress Members.

Congreess leader in the House M Mallikarjun Kharge said, “Dr Ambedkar wanted to add the two words in the Preamble but the atmosphere did not allow him.

However, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan disallowed him, saying he can speak on his turn.

“Opposition is reacting without listening to my complete statement”, the Home Minister also said.