Fifty-nine years since the constitution of India was brought into force -- with an aim not only to adapt laws but also augment the basic liberties and rights of a citizen – Is the country democratic and republic in the real sense? Do we get to exercise our basic constitutional rights? A cross section of Puneites opine.

I think today as the country is advancing on an international level many things are changing for good. Nobody can take away our constitutional rights if we exercise them in the right way. But the fact is that many are still not aware of them and that's what the general public has to be made aware of. If everybody raises a voice for their basic rights things will definitely turn.

— Nabeel Parkar, professional

The constitution has been framed in the backset of democracy – which is ideally meant to be 'For the people, by the people and to the people' and we always speak about things like freedom of expression, right to information, unbiased approach to religion, gender equality, and many such things. Bu I feel that these things are just on paper. In reality, as individuals, many of us still need to adapt a positive approach towards ourselves and others to make all the difference for us as a nation. With issues like political corruption, poverty, unemployment still makes it difficult for everyone to equally exercise the basic constitutional rights.

— Mithun Rathod, businessman

I think freedom of expression is greatly hampered in our country. There are huge restrictions on moving around and celebrating special occasions. Be it the Biharis celebrating Chatt Puja in Mumbai or couples celebrating Valentines Day we are cannot enjoy these days just because some people don't feel it to be right.

—Nazmeen Chowhan, professional

From loopholes in the basic laws to the self-imposed law of the hard-liners-- It is difficult for the common man to practice the basic fundamental rights. Political parties are just an example but a responsibility also lies with every individual to know and demand for their rights

— Sankalp Dutt, student

When we talk about inter-caste marriages there are still issues like honour killing. Where is the right to choose religion? Politics is played even on such issues. Even recently when a political leader changed his religion he was asked to step down from his position. Our country still needs to work very hard to be republic in the real sense.

— Varun Gupta, graduate

Talking about our basic Constitutional Rights we always mention about freedom of speech, movement, religion and expression. But in real life we do not actually get to exercise these rights. Be it the politicians dividing the public on regional and religious grounds or the moral police that restricts to express oneself, ordinary citizens have always been deprived of their basic rights .