The Unfulfilled Promise
About this ebook
This book is not a repudiation of the Constitution but a critical exploration of its gaps—between its grand promises and the lived realities of India’s citizens. It is born from a deep respect for the document’s enduring relevance and a desire to understand why its transformative potential remains unfulfilled for many. The critique offered here is not rooted in cynicism but in a belief that acknowledging shortcomings is the first step toward meaningful reform. My aim is to provoke thoughtful dialogue, encouraging readers to engage with the Constitution not as a static relic but as a dynamic framework that must evolve to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing India.
The journey of writing this book has been multidisciplinary, drawing on legal analysis, historical context, political science, and sociological perspectives. It weaves together landmark judicial decisions, empirical data, historical events, and contemporary debates to present a nuanced critique. From the over-centralized federal structure to the tensions between fundamental rights and directive principles, from the erosion of democratic institutions to the challenges of the digital age, this book examines the systemic and practical barriers that hinder the Constitution’s efficacy. It also grapples with the complexities of India’s diverse society, where caste, gender, religion, language, and regional identities continue to shape the constitutional experience.
This work is intended for a broad audience—scholars, policymakers, students, and citizens—who share a commitment to strengthening India’s democratic fabric. It is an invitation to reflect on the Constitution’s achievements and shortcomings, to question its implementation, and to imagine a path toward a more just and equitable republic. The process of writing has been both humbling and invigorating, as it has deepened my appreciation for the Constitution’s resilience while underscoring the urgency of addressing its unfulfilled promises. I hope this book inspires readers to engage critically and constructively with the document that defines India’s democratic aspirations.
Khritish Swargiary (Author)
