The Betrayal of Constitutional Morality: Youth Radicalization in 21st Century India

“Constitutional morality is not a natural sentiment. It has to be cultivated. We must realize that our people have yet to learn it.” – Dr. B. R. Ambedkar The Constitution of India establishes a democratic framework founded upon justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity after deep research in two years, eleven months and eighteen days. Central to this framework is the doctrine of constitutional morality, articulated by B. R. Ambedkar, which calls for ethical commitment to democratic principles beyond mechanical obedience to law from the very beginning with its preamble. In contemporary India, however, public discourse increasingly reflects religious polarization, identity-driven politics, and ideological mobilization, particularly among sections of the youth. Instead of cultivating rational and inclusive citizenship, prevailing socio-political currents often activate emotional loyalties rooted in cultural and religious identity. This paper critically examines how such tendencies weaken constitutional morality and reshape democratic engagement. Through qualitative and interpretative analysis, the study evaluates the philosophical foundations of constitutional morality, identifies contemporary factors contributing to youth radicalization, and proposes measures to restore democratic ethics. It argues that the future of Indian democracy depends upon strengthening civic education, fostering critical thinking, and promoting inclusive constitutional consciousness.