A Reflection on the 77th Republic Day

Republic Day reminds us that India did not imagine itself merely as a powerful nation, but as a moral one.

Our Constitution was framed with the conviction that authority must be restrained, conscience protected, and the weakest safeguarded. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar warned the nation that constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment, but something that must be consciously cultivated. The Republic was never meant to run on power alone, but on moral discipline. A just nation is not built by uniformity, but by the hard work of living together with dignity.

Indian Christians stand within this moral imagination not as guests, but as participants. We did not arrive yesterday, nor do we belong here on borrowed time. We have buried our dead in this soil, educated its children, healed its sick, and prayed for its peace across generations. This nation has shaped us, and we have loved it in return, often quietly, often without recognition.

Our faith teaches us to honour authority, to obey the law, and to seek the good of all. It also teaches us that human dignity does not come from the state, the crowd, or the moment, but from God who creates every person with equal worth. This belief does not weaken our loyalty to India. It deepens it, because it refuses to treat any person as expendable.

These are not easy times for trust. Words are often hardened. Motives are quickly suspected. Some among us carry fear and weariness. Yet the Christian calling in such moments is neither withdrawal nor resentment. It is presence. Faithful, peaceable, and truthful presence.

We speak today not to ask for privilege, but to affirm a shared responsibility. India’s future depends not only on strength or growth, but on moral seriousness. When conscience is protected, disagreement restrained, and citizenship held without conditions, the Republic grows stronger, not weaker.

On this Republic Day, Indian Christians renew their commitment to the nation we share. We will continue to pray for those who govern, serve our neighbours without distinction, and speak truthfully when it matters, not because we fear the times, but because we trust God and love this country.

May India be governed with wisdom.

May its people live without fear.

May justice be practised without hatred.

Jai Hind.

Rev. Vijayesh Lal
General Secretary
Evangelical Fellowship of India