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The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the country. It lays down the framework defining political principles, structure, powers, and duties of government institutions, and the fundamental rights and duties of citizens. It came into effect on 26 January 1950, marking India’s transition to a Republic.
Historical Background
The idea of a written constitution in India evolved from British rule and freedom struggle experiences.
Important precursors include:
Regulating Act (1773) – First step towards constitutional government.
Charter Acts (1833, 1853) – Introduced legislative councils and centralization.
Indian Councils Acts (1861–1909) – Allowed limited Indian representation.
Government of India Acts (1919 & 1935) – Provided for diarchy and provincial autonomy; the 1935 Act became the blueprint of the Indian Constitution.
The Constituent Assembly (1946–1950) framed the Constitution under Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, the chairman of the Drafting Committee.
Features of the Indian Constitution
1. Written and Lengthiest Constitution – It contains 448 Articles, 12 Schedules, and multiple Amendments, covering every aspect of governance.
2. Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility – Some parts can be amended by a simple majority, others require a special majority and state ratification (Article 368).
3. Federal System with Unitary Bias – India is a Union of States with a strong centre (Articles 1–4, 245–263).
4. Parliamentary System – Executive is responsible to the legislature, modeled on the British system.
5. Secular State – No state religion; all religions enjoy equal respect and freedom (Articles 25–28).
6. Independent Judiciary – Supreme Court as guardian of the Constitution and fundamental rights.
7. Fundamental Rights (Part III) – Basic civil liberties guaranteed to citizens, such as equality, freedom, protection from exploitation, religious freedom, cultural rights, and constitutional remedies.
8. Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV) – Guidelines to establish a welfare state, inspired by the Irish Constitution.
9. Fundamental Duties (Part IVA) – Added by the 42nd Amendment (1976), inspired by the USSR Constitution.
10. Universal Adult Franchise – Every citizen aged 18 and above can vote, ensuring political equality.
11. Emergency Provisions (Part XVIII) – National, State, and Financial emergencies to deal with crises.
Sources of the Constitution
Government of India Act, 1935 – Federal structure, office of Governor, judiciary, PSCs.
British Constitution – Parliamentary system, rule of law, single citizenship.
US Constitution – Fundamental Rights, Judicial Review, Impeachment.
Irish Constitution – DPSPs and nomination to Rajya Sabha.
Canadian Constitution – Federation with a strong center.
Australian Constitution – Concurrent List, freedom of trade.
Soviet Constitution – Fundamental Duties and five-year planning.
Significant Amendments
1st (1951) – Added restrictions on freedom of speech.
42nd (1976) – Known as the “Mini Constitution”; added words Socialist, Secular, Integrity to the Preamble.
44th (1978) – Restored democratic balance after Emergency.
73rd & 74th (1992) – Introduced Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies.
101st (2016) – Introduced Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Preamble
The Preamble declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic, assuring Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
It reflects the philosophy and objectives of the Constitution.
Importance
It ensures Rule of Law, protection of rights, social justice, and democratic governance.
It serves as a living document, adapting to changing needs through amendments.
Conclusion
The Indian Constitution stands as a remarkable blend of Western democratic ideals and Indian socio-political realities. It embodies the vision of the founding fathers for a free, just, and equitable nation. For UPSC9, understanding its philosophy, structure, and evolution is essential as it forms the core of Indian polity and governance.
