Debate Rekindled: RSS Leader Questions 'Secular' And 'Socialist' Words In Constitution Preamble

A fresh political debate has erupted after RSS leader Dattatreya Hosabale called for a review of the words “secular” and “socialist” in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Speaking at a public event, Hosabale argued that these terms were not part of the original Constitution drafted under Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and were only inserted during the Emergency in 1976 through the 42nd Amendment.Echoing similar sentiments, another senior functionary questioned the very necessity of these terms in a country where “secularism is not the core of Indian culture”. According to him, India has always respected all religions without needing a formal label. Regarding socialism, the leader stated that the idea of the “world as one family” (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) already aligns with inclusive values, making the socialist tag redundant.The remarks have drawn strong reactions from opposition parties, constitutional experts, and civil society groups who see this as an attempt to alter the foundational principles of India’s democratic framework. The Congress and other parties have accused the RSS of trying to rewrite the Constitution.This revived controversy may become a focal point in the upcoming political discourse, especially in the lead-up to the next session of Parliament.

 

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