New Delhi: Vice-President of India, C.P. Radhakrishnan, attended the Constitution Day celebration at the Delhi Legislative Assembly today as the Chief Guest. He also released a Coffee Table Book showcasing India’s legislative journey, marking 100 years since Shri Vithalbhai Patel became the first Indian Speaker.
In his speech, the Vice-President said that the Constitution of India is a “living document” that continues to guide the nation. He said the Constitution was created through knowledge, experience, struggle, and hope, and represents the wisdom and sacrifices of millions who fought for India’s freedom. He paid tribute to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, whose leadership helped shape a Constitution that reflects India’s spirit and aspirations.
He noted that since 2015, November 26 has been celebrated as Samvidhan Divas across the country. The day now helps create awareness about citizens’ rights and duties while honouring the vision of the Constitution’s framers. He also mentioned that this year marks the end of the year-long celebrations of the Constitution’s 75th anniversary.
Speaking about India’s progress, the Vice-President said the country is moving steadily toward becoming a developed and self-reliant nation, guided by the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. He said India, once seen as a weak economy, is now the world’s fourth-largest economy and will soon become the third largest.
He highlighted that 25 crore people have come out of poverty in the past decade—an achievement with no parallel in history. He also said that digital technology has helped cover 100 crore citizens under various social security schemes. He called these achievements major milestones that fulfil the dreams of the Constitution-makers.
The Vice-President praised the Delhi Legislative Assembly for having representation from diverse professions and appreciated committees dedicated to senior citizens, transgender persons, and persons with disabilities.
He also commended the leadership of Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta, saying she reflects India’s shift from women’s empowerment to women-led development.
He pointed out that the Delhi Assembly building, which once housed the Imperial Legislative Council and the first Central Legislative Assembly, has witnessed many important debates on rights, citizenship, and governance.
Appreciating the release of the Coffee Table Book, he recalled the successful hosting of the All India Speakers’ Conference in 2025, which marked 100 years of Shri Vithalbhai Patel’s historic term as Speaker. He added that the book contains rare photographs, extracts of speeches, visuals from the conference, and archival material on Vithalbhai Patel and other leaders—making it valuable for future generations.
The Vice-President urged all legislators to work constructively through dialogue and debate, as their role is crucial in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation by 2047.
He ended his address by urging citizens to follow the spirit of Fundamental Duties. He said that respecting others’ rights, following the law, performing duties, and maintaining unity are the best tributes to the Constitution.
The Vice-President also offered floral tributes to the statues of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Shri Vithalbhai Patel at the Assembly premises.
The event was attended by Delhi Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Speaker Vijender Gupta, ministers, MLAs, and other dignitaries.