A seminar on the topic, “Constitutional Rights and Duties” was organized on the occasion of Constitution Day of India on 25th November, 2022 in the Embassy Premises. Speakers included Hon’ble Judge Michel Tarazai, Member of the Lebanese Constitutional Council (equivalent to an Hon’ble Judge of Indian Supreme Court), Hon’ble Judge Dr. Maya Karam, & Dr. Zenab Mirza, a constitutional expert and professor at the prestigious American University of Beirut (AUB), apart from Ambassador Dr Suhel Khan.
The event started with reading of the preamble of the Indian Constitution by Head of Chancery, Shri Sandeep Grover. Judge Tarazai in his address, spoke about the constitutional law and the role of judiciary in defending the constitution. He also spoke about the history of the Lebanese Constitution and expressed hope that like India, Lebanon should also celebrate a constitution day. Judge Dr. Maya Karam spoke at length about the influence of Gandhian principles on the Indian Constitution. She also compared provisions pertaining to rights and duties in the Indian and Lebanese Constitutions. Dr. Zeinab Mirza spoke about contribution of Dr B.R. Ambedkar in drafting of the Indian Constitution and also spoke about various salient features of the Indian Constitution, including various influences on making of the Indian Constitution. Ambassador shed light on various features of the Indian Constitution, and spoke about Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties and Directive Principles of State Policy of the Indian Constitution. He also elaborated on the history of drafting Indian Constitution and lauded the contribution of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the father of the Indian Constitution. Ambassador also spoke about India’s upcoming G-20 Presidency and spoke about the principles of One Earth, One Family and One Future and Vasudhaiva Kutumbkam.
The Seminar was attended by a number of important personalities including many lawyers, civil society members & Indian Diaspora. Embassy Dance Teacher, Shri Deepesh Hoskere also presented a Bharatnatyam performance. A prominent local TV network, Al Mayadeen TV covered the event. The Seminar was also widely covered by the Lebanese local media.