Yasmin Farooqui Denounces RSS’s Attempt to Undermine Secularism and Socialism in the Constitution

Yasmin Farooqui, National General Secretary of the Social Democratic Party of India, strongly condemns RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale’s call to remove “socialist” and “secular” from the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. This is not a harmless suggestion—it is a direct assault on the foundational values of Indian democracy. The words “socialist” and “secular” were added through the 42nd Amendment in 1976 to reflect India’s commitment to social justice, equality, and religious neutrality. These terms are not cosmetic—they are essential safeguards for every citizen, ensuring dignity and equal rights regardless of religion, caste, or class. The RSS’s demand exposes its long-standing agenda to impose a majoritarian ideology that marginalizes minorities and weakens constitutional protections.

Invoking the Emergency period to challenge these values is misleading. The Supreme Court, in Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980), upheld these additions as part of the Constitution’s basic structure. The framers of our Constitution envisioned a society rooted in liberty, equality, and justice for all—not a nation governed by the dominance of one community or ideology. The claim that India is “naturally” secular and thus doesn’t need the term is dangerous. Without constitutional guarantees, minorities remain vulnerable. The RSS’s ideological legacy, including its 1949 opposition to the Constitution for not being rooted in Hindu cultural values, reveals its ambition to push India toward a Hindu Rashtra.

Attacking the word “socialist” is equally harmful. At a time when economic inequality is deepening, discarding socialism undermines the rights of millions who rely on public welfare, affirmative action, and redistributive justice. The RSS’s vision benefits the privileged, not the people struggling at the margins. SDPI calls on all democratic forces, civil society, and concerned citizens to resist this dangerous attempt to dilute the Constitution. This is not merely about two words—it is about defending the soul and spirit of the Republic.

Yasmin Farooqui
National General Secretary
Social Democratic Party of India