SHILLONG: The High Court of Meghalaya and the Meghalaya State Judicial Academy, in collaboration with the State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, today hosted a day-long programme to mark Constitution Day. Held at the High Court Auditorium, the event centred on the theme “The Constitution as a Mirror Reflecting All Abilities.”
Chief Justice of the High Court of Meghalaya, Justice Soumen Sen, said Constitution Day is “not merely a ceremonial observance” but a moment to reflect on the ideals that shaped the Republic. He stressed the relevance of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity—values that continue to evolve with society.
Calling the Preamble “a key to open the mind of the makers,” Justice Sen said it is a guiding force meant to translate constitutional ideals into tangible action. He reiterated that the Constitution envisions a society grounded in social, economic and political justice, echoing Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s view that political democracy must be rooted in social democracy.
Emphasising the need for inclusion, he said persons with disabilities must be fully integrated into education, employment, public spaces, digital platforms and democratic processes. Their rights, he noted, are inherent constitutional guarantees. He highlighted the RPwD Act, 2016, as a crucial manifestation of constitutional equality, mandating inclusive education, 4% job reservation in government services, and accessible environments.
In his address, Justice H.S. Thangkhiew called the theme deeply reflective, describing the Preamble as the ethical and philosophical mirror of the Constitution. Revisiting its origins in Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru’s 1946 Objectives Resolution, he underlined the judiciary’s role in expanding the meaning of equality and dignity through progressive interpretations that ensure accessibility and non-discrimination.
He urged all citizens to uphold constitutional values and work towards an inclusive nation where every individual, regardless of ability, is valued and supported.
The event was attended by Justice Wanlura Diengdoh, Justice Biswadeep Bhattacharjee, officials of the State Commission for Persons with Disabilities, police personnel and other dignitaries.
The programme included a technical session on “Equal Before the Law: Advancing Disability Rights within India’s Disability Rights and Constitutional Framework” and “Law for Everyone: Building Access and Inclusion,” led by Rahul Bajaj, Advocate at the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court and Co-Founder of Mission Accessibility.
This was followed by a presentation on Meghalaya’s best practices by B. Warshong, Deputy Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, and a testimonial segment titled “Barriers and Breakthroughs: Lived Experiences from the Field” delivered by Larikyrpang Nongrum.
