How Politicians Selectively Use the Constitution for Power
The Constitution is treated like a supermarket, not a sacred document.
In India, the Constitution is rarely read — it is quoted. And politicians quote it the way advertisers quote T&Cs: selectively, strategically, and with hidden motives.
The ruling party invokes the Constitution to defend strong decisions — from security laws to central powers — but ignores the same Constitution when it comes to freedom of speech, minority rights, or federal balance. “National interest” becomes a magic phrase that washes away constitutional scrutiny.
The Opposition, meanwhile, discovers constitutional morality only when it is out of power. The same leaders who once supported draconian laws suddenly demand liberty. The ones who once ignored federalism now cry about central overreach. The switch is not ideological — it is opportunistic.
Both sides weaponize Article 19 when they need protests, but remember Article 51(A) (duties) when they want crowds controlled.
Both sides praise Ambedkar publicly but undermine institutions privately.
Both sides court the judiciary for favourable verdicts and attack it when rulings don’t suit them.
The Constitution is meant to restrain power.
Politicians use it to justify power.
India’s political class treats the Constitution not as a compass but as a prop — a convenient shield during debates and a disposable accessory during governance.
The tragedy is that the public sees only what is marketed, not what is manipulated.
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