We, the people: Indians must go back to values enshrined in Constitution

Liberal values require open debate, open discussion, and open dissent

On India’s 69th Republic Day, it is important to reflect on the extraordinary nature of the country’s achievement. A continent-sized country has, thanks to a liberal and inclusive Constitution, survived wars, droughts, inflation, and dissensions of various hues. It has seen off challenges to democracy and retained its faith in the wisdom of the electorate. Among other things, India is the largest growing large economy, millions have moved above the poverty line, and even the socially depressed have been able to achieve upward mobility. The country has made great strides in life expectancy, infant mortality, and literacy over the decades,