RS unanimously adopts resolution to protect India's plurality

Rajya Sabha today unanimously adopted a resolution vowing to protect India's plurality and its democratic, socialist and secular character after a three day debate on the Constitution, in the backdrop of a raging controversy over alleged intolerance.
The resolution, read out by Chairman Hamid Ansari, was adopted with thumping of desks by the members after the discussion on the commitment to the Constitution as part of the 125th birth anniversary celebration of B R Ambedkar.
"We, the members ... Do hereby solemnly re-affirm our commitment to the principles and ideals of the Constitution, and resolve to continue to ... Protect the sovereignty, unity, plurality and integrity of our country and its democratic, socialist and secular character," said the resolution, adopted after Prime Minister Narendra Modi replied to the debate.

The members also pledged to "maintain transparency, probity and accountability in public life; and dedicate ourselves to equality and social justice and contribute to the task of building a strong Republic."
They re-affirmed their commitment to "uphold and maintain the sanctity and supremacy of the Constitution; and respect the constitutional institutions, their freedom and authority."
The House "remembered with gratitude", the commitment of Mahatma Gandhi, the pioneering and monumental role played by Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajendra Prasad, Vallabhbhai Patel, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad and "other founding fathers of our Constitution and their contribution" in enabling its adoption and enactment.
The members recalled with appreciation, the invaluable services rendered by Ambedkar as the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly and all its members in the framing of the Constitution of India.