On Tuesday, Jammu & Kashmir will mark its first-ever celebration of "Samvidhan Diwas" (Constitution Day), a historic event that commemorates the adoption of the Indian Constitution on November 26, 1950. This momentous occasion comes after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, which fully integrated Jammu & Kashmir into the Indian Union.
Prominent Ceremony in Srinagar Led by Lieutenant Governor
The grand ceremony will take place in Srinagar, with Jammu & Kashmir Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha leading the proceedings. As part of the celebrations, the LG and other officials will read the Preamble to the Indian Constitution, reinforcing the region's commitment to the democratic principles laid out in the Constitution.
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A Historic First for Jammu & Kashmir
This marks the first time that the region will celebrate Constitution Day with such prominence since it became part of India in 1947. The occasion holds special significance, given the region's unique constitutional history and its evolving relationship with the Indian Constitution.
Jammu & Kashmir’s Constitutional Evolution
Before the revocation of Article 370 in 2019, Jammu & Kashmir followed its own constitution and had a separate flag. The head of government was referred to as the Prime Minister, while the head of state was called Sadr-e-Riyasat (President). In 1965, these titles were replaced by Chief Minister and Governor, bringing the region in line with the rest of India. However, the state continued to operate under its own constitution and flag until the constitutional changes of 2019.
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Impact of Article 370's Abrogation
The removal of Article 370 in 2019 led to Jammu & Kashmir losing its special status and being bifurcated into two Union Territories: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. This change marked the full application of the Indian Constitution to the region, making this year’s Constitution Day celebrations even more symbolic.
Omar Abdullah’s Historic Oath to the Indian Constitution
Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah holds a unique place in the region's constitutional journey. On October 16, 2009, he became the first J&K CM to swear allegiance to the Indian Constitution when taking his oath of office. His 17 predecessors had taken their oaths on the J&K Constitution.
Absence of Omar Abdullah from the Ceremony
While several ministers from Abdullah’s government will attend the celebrations, the National Conference leader himself will not be present. He left for Saudi Arabia on Monday to perform Umrah in Mecca, a significant pilgrimage for Muslims.
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Significance of Constitution Day
"Samvidhan Diwas" is observed across India to honor the adoption of the Indian Constitution, reflecting on the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Preamble. For Jammu & Kashmir, this year’s celebration symbolizes the region’s full integration into India, marking a historic acknowledgment of its place in the nation.
Looking Ahead: A New Era for Jammu & Kashmir
The grand ceremony in Srinagar will highlight the region's journey from a distinct constitutional identity to becoming an integral part of India, with the Indian Constitution now fully applying to the region.