Dattatreya Hosabale, the General Secretary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), has ignited a fresh debate regarding the Indian Constitution by calling for a discussion on the inclusion of the words "socialist" and "secular" in its preamble. Speaking at an event in New Delhi commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, Hosabale stated that these terms, which were inserted into the Constitution during the Emergency period by the then-Congress government, warrant a thorough reconsideration.

Hosabale's remarks have resurfaced a long-standing ideological contention. The RSS has consistently opposed the inclusion of "socialist" and "secular" in the preamble, viewing it as an undemocratic act that deviated from the original spirit of the Constitution. They argue that these terms were incorporated during a period when democratic processes were suppressed, and therefore, their legitimacy is questionable.

The timing of Hosabale's statement is significant, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the Emergency, a period marked by the suspension of fundamental rights, the imprisonment of political opponents, and restrictions on the freedom of the press and judiciary. Hosabale criticized the Congress party for imposing the Emergency and demanded an apology for the alleged trampling of democratic rights and the curbing of freedoms. He also pointed to the forced sterilizations that occurred during that time. He argued that those responsible for these actions now "walk around with the Constitution's copy" without having apologized.

Hosabale's call has expectedly triggered varied reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the RSS position contend that the terms "socialist" and "secular" are not intrinsic to the Indian ethos and were imposed without proper consultation or consensus. They suggest that a debate would allow for a more accurate reflection of the nation's identity and values in the Constitution.

Conversely, critics argue that removing "socialist" and "secular" would undermine the inclusive and egalitarian principles enshrined in the Constitution. They view these terms as essential to protecting the rights of minorities and marginalized communities, as well as promoting social and economic justice. For them, "socialist" signifies a commitment to reducing inequality and ensuring equitable distribution of resources, while "secular" guarantees freedom of religion and prevents discrimination based on faith.

The debate over the inclusion of "socialist" and "secular" in the preamble is not merely a semantic argument; it reflects fundamental differences in how various groups perceive India's identity and its constitutional values. The outcome of any such debate could have far-reaching implications for the country's political and social landscape.

In related developments, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has also criticized the Emergency, calling it "a sin that can never be forgotten." He stated that the inclusion of "secular" and "socialist" in the Preamble during that period was "an attack on India's soul".