National Constitution Day observed today

November 4 is one of the most significant dates in the constitutional history of independent Bangladesh. On this day in 1972, the Constituent Assembly adopted the country's first constitution. Drafted in the wake of a long political struggle, the Liberation War and the aspiration to establish an independent state, the constitution became the foundation of Bangladesh's governance.

November 4 is observed every year as Constitution Day to commemorate the adoption of the charter. However, the constitution did not come into effect immediately after its approval by the Constituent Assembly. Under Article 153, it took effect on December 16, 1972, coinciding with Victory Day.

Following independence, initiatives were taken to draft a comprehensive constitution for the newly established state. As part of the process, a 34-member Constitution Drafting Committee was formed on April 11, 1972, with then Law Minister Dr Kamal Hossain as its chairman. The committee prepared a draft through discussions, reviews and consultations at various stages.

The draft constitution was subsequently discussed in detail in the Constituent Assembly. The Constitution Bill was placed before the assembly on October 12. Following several readings, debates and amendments, the bill was adopted on November 4, formally establishing the constitutional framework of independent Bangladesh.

The original constitution comprised 11 parts, 153 articles and seven schedules. It recognised nationalism, socialism, democracy and secularism as the four fundamental principles of state policy. It also incorporated commitments to protecting citizens' fundamental rights, upholding the rule of law, ensuring equality and human dignity, and establishing social and economic justice.

The constitution is the supreme law of Bangladesh. It defines the fundamental structure of the state, the powers and responsibilities of the different branches of government, the independence of the judiciary, the electoral system, and the constitutional rights and duties of citizens. Reflecting the spirit of independence and the aspirations of the people, the constitution holds particular significance in the country's national life.