On 10 February 2026, the School of Humanities & Performing Arts and the School of Law at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) jointly hosted an enlightening awareness session titled “Fundamental Rights and Constitutional Obligations: Awareness for Responsible Citizenship.” Held in the Central Block Auditorium, the event targeted first-year Law students and learners from the MA English with Digital Humanities programme. Its core aim was to instill a foundational understanding of constitutional values, democratic principles, and the intertwined responsibilities of citizenship in India's vibrant democracy.
The session featured two distinguished speakers, Shalini Sharma and Shaily Jain, assistant professors at Christ University Lavasa whose complementary expertise bridged philosophical, ethical, and legal dimensions of the Indian Constitution. The interactive style of Ms. Shalini Sharma and Ms. Shaily Jain not only clarified complex ideas but also highlighted practical applications, making abstract concepts accessible and relevant for the diverse student audience.
Ms. Shalini Sharma kicked off the proceedings with a compelling dive into the Constitution's historical backdrop. She recounted its adoption on 26 November 1949 by the Constituent Assembly, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and its enforcement on 26 January 1950 (Republic Day), symbolizing India's rebirth as a sovereign nation post-colonial rule. Shalini Sharma portrayed the Constitution as a living, dynamic document, amended over 100 times to evolve with societal shifts, from economic reforms to social justice initiatives. This adaptability, Ms. Shalini Sharma noted, ensures it remains the supreme law, guiding legislation, judiciary, and executive actions.
A highlight was the exposition by Ms. Shalini Sharma on the Preamble, she unpacked its layered structure: resolutionary in its collective resolve for nation-building, uniting India's diverse populace; promissory through guarantees of social, economic, and political justice, alongside liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship, plus equality of status and opportunity, all underpinned by fraternity; and declaratory in proclaiming India a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic.
Ms. Shaily Jain then seamlessly built on this base, delivering a meticulous breakdown of Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III (Articles 12–35). She covered the right to equality (Articles 14–18), prohibiting discrimination and ensuring equal protection; freedoms under Article 19, including speech, assembly, and movement; the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21); and protections against exploitation, religious freedom, and cultural rights. Using relatable examples (like challenging workplace discrimination or safeguarding protest rights amid current events), She prompted interactive discussions. Students debated scenarios such as social media free speech versus hate speech limits, fostering critical thinking.
The session masterfully linked rights to obligations, emphasizing duties under Article 51A, like abiding by the Constitution, promoting harmony, and safeguarding public property. Active participation (from eager questions to group reflections) revealed students' growing grasp of balanced citizenship.
In essence, this session advanced constitutional literacy, empowering attendees to navigate India's democracy responsibly. It left a lasting impact, inspiring informed, ethical engagement.
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