India witnessed the inauguration of its first Constitution Museum at O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) on November 23, 2024. Marking the 75th anniversary of the Constitution’s adoption, this initiative aims to educate and enrich the public's knowledge of the nation’s foundational document. The occasion was graced by luminaries such as the Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha, Shri Om Birla, Haryana Chief Minister Shri Nayab Singh Saini, and Union Minister of Law and Justice Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal.
Shri Naveen Jindal, Chancellor of JGU and Member of Parliament, expressed his aspirations for the museum, stating, “We dedicate the Constitution Museum to the nation, encouraging the youth of India to embrace the Constitution of India as a beacon of knowledge.” This sentiment echoes throughout the museum, which seeks to connect the nation’s youth with the essence of democracy and the rule of law as represented by the Constitution.
The museum will serve as a historical custodian, housing various interactive displays and exhibits showcasing the evolution and significance of the Constitution over the past 75 years. Prof. (Dr.) C. Raj Kumar, the university’s Founding Vice Chancellor, elaborated on this historic movement, underscoring the extraordinary contributions of the members of the Constituent Assembly, particularly Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who is celebrated as the Architect of the Constitution.
Technological integration is central to the museum experience, with AI-driven exhibitions and 3D installations planned to engage visitors dynamically. The collaboration with IIT Madras for technological expertise positions this museum as not just another educational space but as a landmark of innovation and creativity. The S.A.M.V.I.D. project will include advanced language models providing guided tours and detailed insights about each exhibit, including profiles of the Constituent Assembly members and their significant contributions.
The museum features five core objectives. Firstly, it aims to advance civic education—highlighting the diminishing focus on Civics as a subject, which traditionally enlightened students about the Constitution and its operational mechanisms. Secondly, it seeks to democratize access to constitutional knowledge, emphasizing its relevance to all citizens, not just legal practitioners.
A tribute to the members of the Constituent Assembly is another primary aim—recognizing the multitude of individuals who contributed to writing India's Constitution beyond the commonly acknowledged figures. The museum will also promote discussions surrounding the institutional underpinnings of democracy and the rule of law, encouraging visitors to reflect on their importance.
Finally, this endeavor will investigate the progression of rights and freedoms in India since the Constitution's ratification, paving the way for continuous dialogue about liberty, equality, and justice within the country. The newly developed Constitution Gardens within the museum complex will beautifully narrate these principles through artistic installations.
Art will be pivotal to the museum, with sculptures and other artistic representations reflecting diversity and unity under the constitutional ethos. Notable works include Rajesh P. Subramanian's sculpture ‘We, The People of India’, embodying the core principle of unity amid diversity, and the sculpture ‘Echoes of Liberty’ by Rahul Gautam, which creatively intertwines historical and modern elements, aiming to evoke thought and reflection among all who visit.
Prof. Anjchita B. Nair, the Chief Executive of the Centre for Museums, stressed the innovative narrative approach of the museum. “The idea behind the space is to demystify the Constitution and make it accessible to wider audiences,” she pointed out, aiming to instill pride and appreciation for the legacy carried forth by this significant document.
The museum's grand opening is more than just the start of a new educational venue; it marks the culmination of decades of reflection and dialogue about Indian democracy and its foundational principles. With much anticipation, it promises to become not only a regional landmark but also a national treasure for generations to come.
The public will have the opportunity to explore the museum from December onwards, with arrangements for pre-registration already planned. The anticipation surrounding this space reflects its potential to reshape how citizens interact with their rights and responsibilities under the Constitution.
At its core, the Constitution Museum and the Rights and Freedoms Academy stand as powerful symbols of India’s commitment to democratic ideals and civic education. By fostering engagement with the Constitution, the museum is poised to inspire future generations to uphold the values of liberty, equality, and justice.
With such initiatives underway, it is evident India’s narrative on rights and governance continues to evolve, inviting broader participation from citizens across the spectrum.
This space will not only serve as a resource centre but will also function as an archive for expert insights, dedicated to exploring the many facets of the Constitution. The legacy of the Constituent Assembly will now be accompanied by meaningful interactions facilitated through advanced technology, reflecting India’s aspirations as it strides forward.
Details for the inaugural session of the National Convention on the Constitution of India to be held concomitantly reflect the museum's deep-rooted philosophy of fostering collaboration among citizens and institutions to preserve and propagate the ideals enshrined within the document.
