Sun Jan 26 02:40:00 UTC 2025: ## President Murmu’s Republic Day Eve Address Highlights Constitutional Values and Governance Reforms

**New Delhi, India** – In her third Republic Day eve address, President Droupadi Murmu lauded India’s Constitution as the bedrock of national identity and highlighted significant governance reforms undertaken in recent years. Speaking on Saturday, she emphasized the Constitution’s role in India’s progress over the past 75 years, expressing gratitude to Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar and the drafting committee.

President Murmu underscored the enduring relevance of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, principles she described as integral to India’s civilizational heritage. She praised the government’s expansion of welfare initiatives, making basic necessities a matter of entitlement. This, she said, demonstrates a bold vision for governance.

The President also voiced strong support for the proposed “One Nation One Election” bill, currently before Parliament. She cited its potential to streamline governance, prevent policy paralysis, and reduce financial burdens. Furthermore, she highlighted improvements in education, noting advancements in quality, infrastructure, and digital inclusion over the past decade.

Significantly, President Murmu welcomed the recent overhaul of criminal laws, replacing the colonial-era Indian Penal Code, Code of Criminal Procedure, and Indian Evidence Act with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam. She emphasized the new laws’ focus on justice rather than solely punishment, and their prioritization of combating crimes against women and children. The President characterized these changes as a significant step in shedding lingering colonial mindsets.

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