In the district of Kollam, Kerala, a journey unfolded—a journey that we, as the chosen Senators (Certified Constitution Literacy Trainers) and the executive members of the Constitution Literacy Council- an organization committed to the constitution literacy mission across the nation, hold close to our heart. This narrative chronicles the remarkable initiative, a testament to the unwavering spirit of our community and the transformative power of constitutional literacy.
Our tale began with the ambitious “Citizen 2022” project orchestrated by the Kollam District Panchayat. Led collaboratively by the Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA), the planning committee of Kollam district, and the District Panchayat of Kollam, this endeavor disseminated the basics and principles of the Constitution to every one of the 2.2 million residents aged 10 and above within the district.
Selected as a Senator, we underwent three intense days of training at KILA, delving into the intricacies of our constitution’s history, values, laws, and the profound rights and responsibilities bestowed upon every citizen. We emerged from that training not just as individuals but as torchbearers of a cause that would redefine our district.
Armed with newfound knowledge and a sense of purpose, our team of Senators, certified by expert trainers, fanned out across the district. We weren’t just spreading awareness; we were on a mission to empower every resident with a profound understanding of our constitution.
Our sessions were not confined to classrooms; they resonated in the corridors of schools, the lecture halls of colleges, the warmth of households, the vibrant spaces of Kudumbasree units (Women’s self help groups), and the nurturing embrace of Anganwadis. We had sessions with MGNREGA workers in the district in their work places- in roads, forest and paddy fields. Our senators went into the tribal colonies in the wild forest in our district and had active discussions and classes that ignited the light of being EQUAL citizens.
Everywhere we were welcomed with open arms, and the participation was heartening. Young minds and seasoned individuals alike actively engaged in conversations about constitutional rights and responsibilities. A cadre of over 2,000 Citizen 2022 educators imparted knowledge to over 600,000 families, rendering more than 1.6 million individuals literate in constitutional principles.
But we didn’t stop there. We brought the constitution to the very fabric of our community, distributing preambles and books that encapsulated the essence of constitutional values. Every house, every shop in Kollam proudly displayed the preamble, transforming our district into a living testament to constitutional awareness.
The response was overwhelming. Discussions weren’t just about rights and duties; they were about a shared vision for our district and our nation. Our sessions became a rallying point against division, urging everyone to be responsible Indians and embrace each other as brothers and sisters, transcending the artificial barriers of caste, religion, political and financial status.
And then came the moment of triumph. Ward by ward, we completed our mission. On the 14th of January 2023, the honorable Chief Minister of Kerala, Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, declared Kollam as the “First complete constitution literate district in India.” The jubilation that echoed through our community was indescribable—a collective realization of the power vested in us through knowledge of our constitution.
But we, the Senators, weren’t content to rest on our laurels. Fueled by the passion that ignited our journey, we birthed the “Constitution Literacy Council.” We envisioned a broader canvas, extending our mission to every district in Kerala at first and then across India. Our objectives weren’t just about spreading awareness; they were about fostering a culture of constitutional studies, research, and discussions.
Even two senators from our team who met during the KILA training and decided to marry, chose their marriage to be an occasion to celebrate and proclaim constitutional values. They exchanged the Constitution instead of rings and the backdrop of the stage was decorated with the pictures of Jwahar Lal Nehru and Dr BR Ambedkar. The Preamble was displayed at the entrance and pamphlets containing constitutional values were distributed among the guests.
Our journey is ongoing, and as the Council took shape, we aimed to identify and train volunteers from all districts. Collaborating seamlessly with “Har Dil Mein Samvidhan,” we organized impactful events. As we look ahead, our commitment to expanding constitutional literacy remains steadfast, and we are planning future initiatives associating with the “Har Dil Me Samvidhan” and by joining forces with numerous volunteers and organizations across the state. We aspire to make the youth conscious of their nationalism, instill patriotism, and nurture a generation of responsible citizens deeply committed to societal well-being.
-Naseem Khan M & Raseena MA