Sat Feb 22 18:41:36 UTC 2025: ## Dhankhar Links Constitutional Knowledge to Nationalism, Criticizes Foreign Funding of Elections
**NEW DELHI** – Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday urged Indians to prioritize nationalism above all else, asserting that deeper understanding of the Constitution fosters nationalistic sentiment. Speaking at the inauguration of Constitution Awareness Year celebrations, Dhankhar described nationalism as the “biggest religion,” transcending political affiliations and personal interests.
Dhankhar voiced concerns over alleged foreign interference in Indian elections, referencing recent reports of USAID funding aimed at increasing voter turnout. He characterized such funding as a threat to India’s democratic system, stating that it allows external actors to influence election outcomes.
He lauded the Constitution’s framers as selfless individuals who prioritized dialogue and debate over boycotts, contrasting this with contemporary political disruptions. He emphasized the importance of functional parliamentary proceedings as a means to address public concerns.
The Vice President also highlighted the significance of Constitution Day, noting its ten-year commemoration to educate younger generations about India’s freedom struggle, fundamental rights, and democratic responsibilities. He used the occasion to condemn the Emergency of 1975, recalling the Supreme Court’s controversial decision to overturn High Court rulings upholding fundamental rights during that period. He referred to June 25th as “Samvidhan Hatya Diwas” (Constitution Murder Day) in recognition of this event.
Dhankhar further elaborated on the Constitution’s symbolism, pointing to its illustrations representing India’s rich 5000-year-old culture, including depictions of figures like Lord Ram and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He stressed that only Parliament and state assemblies possess the power to amend the Constitution, clarifying the judiciary’s role as limited to interpretation.
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