New Delhi: On the occasion of Constitution Day, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) extended warm greetings to all citizens, urging the nation to reaffirm its commitment to the foundational principles of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. In a statement released on Tuesday, the CBCI highlighted that these core values are essential for sustaining India’s democratic framework and ensuring the well-being of its diverse population.
The CBCI emphasized that the Indian Constitution, crafted by visionary framers, stands as a beacon of justice, equality, and fraternity, embodying the collective aspirations of a pluralistic society. It guarantees that every citizen regardless of religion, caste, or creed enjoys dignity, rights, and equitable opportunities. The Church stressed that constitutional protections for religious minorities and socially vulnerable groups must be cherished and faithfully implemented.
Highlighting the role of democratic institutions, the CBCI noted the importance of maintaining neutrality, independence, and functional effectiveness of bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission, the National Minorities’ Commission, and the Election Commission of India, which serve as critical safeguards for democratic governance. The statement underscored that a credible and transparent electoral process is central to the health of democracy, and concerns raised by citizens regarding elections must be addressed earnestly.
The CBCI reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the spirit of the Constitution by continuing efforts to uplift marginalized communities, foster interfaith dialogue, and contribute to the nation’s holistic progress. The statement called on all citizens to rededicate themselves to the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, and to work collectively toward building a more inclusive, compassionate, and forward-looking India, guided by the Constitution’s enduring vision.