On 26 January 1950, the constitution of India was enforced, and India was declared a democratic republic country. But it is interesting that the constitution which was adopted on 26 November 1949 came into the act after two months. So what was the reason behind it?
It's Republic Day today, so let us find more about how and why 26 January was selected as the day when India was declared a Republic Country rather than just celebrating it as a national holiday.
As soon as the Simon Commission arrived in India, Mahatma Gandhi led the Mass Movement in which youths demanded complete Independence (Purna Swaraj).
It may surprise us that some of the leaders were ready to accept Dominion Status (Not Complete Independence) from British which resulted in internal conflicts.
After lengthy discussions, the time came when everybody was ready for Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence). Leaders like Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and Jawaharlal Nehru were in favor for immediate and Complete Independence.
On 31 December 1930, Nehru hoisted the Indian flag with Gandhi's charkha in the center, and every single person took the oath of independence. On 26 January 1930, Purna Swaraj was publically issued.
On 15 August 1947, India became independent. The constituent assembly was formed in 1946, which included many visionaries like Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Nehru, and Rajendra Prasad who drafted the Indian Constitution.
The Indian Constitution was completed on 26 November 1949 after long brainstorming sessions and meetings which replaced the Government of India Act.
26 January 1930, the date which was associated with complete independence, leaders decided to honor it by enforcing the constitution and make it a day of national importance.
So this is how 26 January become such an important date in Indian History.