Constitution of India: Difference between revisions
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Latest revision as of 10:22, 8 July 2025
Constitution of India is the supreme law of the Republic of India. It lays down the framework that defines the political principles, structure, powers, and duties of the government institutions and the rights and duties of citizens. Adopted on 26 November 1949 and enforced on 26 January 1950, it marked the birth of modern Indian democracy.[1]
Historical Background
After gaining independence in 1947, the Constituent Assembly of India, chaired by Dr. Rajendra Prasad and with B. R. Ambedkar as the chairman of the Drafting Committee, was tasked with formulating a new constitution. The Assembly worked for almost three years, holding 11 sessions over 165 days of debate.[2] The final document replaced the Government of India Act 1935 and established India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.[3]
Structure and Features
The Constitution originally had 395 articles and 8 schedules; today, it consists of over 470 articles in 25 parts and 12 schedules, making it the longest written constitution in the world.[4] It includes:
- Fundamental Rights – civil liberties like equality, freedom, and protection under the law[5]
- Directive Principles of State Policy – guidelines for governance aiming at social and economic welfare
- Fundamental Duties – responsibilities expected from Indian citizens[6]
- Federal structure with a strong central government
- Provision for amendments to allow adaptability
It adopts features from various international constitutions, such as the parliamentary system from the UK, fundamental rights from the USA, and directive principles from Ireland.[7]
Amendments
The Constitution is a living document and has been amended multiple times. The first amendment was passed in 1951. The most prominent is the 42nd Amendment (1976), which inserted the words "Socialist", "Secular", and "Integrity" into the Preamble during the Emergency period.[8]
Preamble
The Preamble declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and secures justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for its citizens.[9] It serves as the guiding philosophy of the Constitution.
Importance
The Constitution ensures the rule of law, separation of powers, independence of judiciary, and a system of checks and balances. It guarantees the dignity of individuals and the unity and integrity of the nation. The Supreme Court of India is the final interpreter and guardian of the Constitution.[10]
See Also
- Preamble to the Constitution of India
- Fundamental Rights in India
- Constituent Assembly of India
- B. R. Ambedkar
- Republic of India
- Parliament of India
References
- ↑ https://www.britannica.com/topic/Constitution-of-India
- ↑ https://www.india.gov.in/my-government/constitution-india
- ↑ https://www.constitutionofindia.net/historical_constitutions/government-of-india-act-1935/
- ↑ https://www.lawinsider.in/columns/why-indian-constitution-is-the-longest-written-constitution
- ↑ https://legislative.gov.in/constitution-of-india
- ↑ https://ncert.nic.in/textbook/pdf/leps104.pdf
- ↑ https://blog.ipleaders.in/borrowed-features-constitution-india/
- ↑ https://www.indiatoday.in/education-today/gk-current-affairs/story/42nd-amendment-of-indian-constitution-839538-2016-12-09
- ↑ https://www.india.gov.in/my-government/constitution-india/preamble
- ↑ https://main.sci.gov.in/