There have been some suggestions that we either cancel the Republic Day Parade or at least scale it down as a mark of respect for the terrible tsunami tragedy that has befallen us and cost the lives of tens of thousands of Indians. On the face of it, this appears the proper thing to do. But the issue demands deeper thought. To begin with, the Republic Day is a national day of historical importance to the nation, and the Republic Day Parade has become an institution in itself. There is the larger debate on whether we really need this exercise to showcase our national achievements and our sense of common purpose. But that is another issue all together. The immediate question before us is whether we should, as a mark of respect for the recent dead, hold the Republic Day ceremonies in abeyance for this year. It is our considered view that we should not do so. Indeed, such a move would not just be ill-considered, it would defeat its very purpose.How does the nation express its collective grief over a tragedy of such massive proportions? This was a question first raised after the Republic Day earthquake that flattened much of Gujarat in 2001. We believe that the best way we can respond to such crises is by delivering relief and assistance to the survivors in as efficacious and efficient a manner as possible, so that they can pick up the pieces of their lives and carry on. But this, in itself, would in no way mitigate their deep sense of loss over their loved ones lost in the tragedy. Expressions of collective sympathy and solidarity, therefore, become extremely important. Republic Day would, in fact, provide an appropriate platform to publicly express these sentiments and pledge to extend every support to assist the affected communities in their hour of trial, even as the pledge to uphold the Constitution is made. There are numerous ways by which the nation’s concern and sadness can be incorporated into the traditional ceremonies that mark Republic Day.There is a larger message that needs to be conveyed as well. That no matter what reversal India may face as a nation — and certainly the tsunami tragedy is a major one — its spirit of unity and purpose will prevail and help it to emerge stronger. Carrying on with the Republic Day ceremonies will signal just this.
