Bangladesh Enacts Its Constitution
December 16th, 1972
December 16th, 1972

How Long Ago?
52 years, 2 months, 27 days ago
Location
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Category
Politics & Government
People
- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman
- Abul Mansur Ahmed
- Kazi Nazrul Islam
- M. A. Tawfiq
Links & References
Tags
Bangladesh Enacts Its Constitution
The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh was enacted, establishing the legal framework for governance and civil rights in the nation. Following the Liberation War, the draft was created by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s government. Completed in late 1972, it emphasized democracy, socialism, secularism, and nationalism. The parliamentary system was designed to uphold the rule of law and human rights, reflecting the aspirations of the Bengali people for self-determination after independence.
Constitution emphasizes democracy and socialism
Drafted post-liberation war for national identity
Ensured fundamental human rights protections
Served as foundation for governance in Bangladesh
What Happened?
The Constitution of the People's Republic of Bangladesh emerged in the context of the newly independent nation following the Liberation War against Pakistan. Under the leadership of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the process of drafting the constitution began shortly after the war concluded in December 1971. The goal was to establish a new legal and social order that resonated with the values and aspirations of the Bangladeshi people, who had fought for their right to self-determination and independence. The drafting committee, which included prominent political figures and legal experts, aimed to create a comprehensive document that would address the various challenges and demands of the populace.
The constitution was signed into law, and it articulated fundamental principles such as democracy, nationalism, socialism, and secularism. Among its many features were the establishment of a parliamentary democracy, the protection of human rights, and the recognition of the Bengali language as the state language. The preamble emphasized the commitment of the state to the welfare of its citizens, reflecting the vision of a progressive and inclusive society. Adoption of the constitution signaled Bangladesh's aspirations for political stability and social justice, paving the way for future governance and legislation.
Following its enactment, the constitution became the bedrock of Bangladeshi democracy and served as a reference point for all subsequent laws and government policies. Constitutional amendments and political reforms would follow in the ensuing decades, but the foundational principles laid out in 1972 would continue to influence the legal and political landscape of the country. Public celebrations marked the ratification of the constitution, as it symbolized the hard-earned recognition of national identity and sovereignty after years of struggle against oppression.
Why Does it Matter?
The enactment of the constitution marked a pivotal moment in the establishment of Bangladesh as a sovereign entity. It is interesting as it laid the framework for governance, ensuring representation and civil rights for the citizens. The document’s core values would influence subsequent political movements and conflicts, contributing to the ongoing discourse around democracy and social justice in Bangladesh.
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