The Indian Constitution: Download PDF Notes

The Indian Constitution is the supreme law of India, which establishes the principles that characterise the politics, procedures, powers, and responsibilities of the government institutions, as well as the basic rights and responsibilities of the citizens. It was passed on November 26, 1949, and implemented on January 26, 1950, and made India a sovereign, democratic republic. It was written at the head of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and it is the longest written constitution in the world.

The Constitution provides the principles of justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity as the principles of governance and the rule of law, democracy, and freedom as the pillars of the Indian society.

What is a Constitution

A constitution is a collection of written documents and values that dictate the manner in which a nation is governed. It defines the authority of the government, the responsibilities of citizens, and the rights that safeguard people. The Indian Constitution is the cornerstone of the Indian democracy. Unlike a football game can not run without clear rules, a nation can never run without a constitution. It gives the constitutive rules that bring about order and justice in governance so that no power is abused by the authority.

Making of the Indian Constitution

The Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar after India attained its independence in 1947. Before it was adopted on November 26, 1949, it required nearly three years of debate and more than 300 sessions. On January 26, 1950, the Republic Day, the Constitution came into force. This was done in the spirit of democracy in India, striking a balance between diversity, culture, and regional needs. The Constitution is a manifestation of the dream of freedom, equality, and justice to a new independent state.

Key Features of the Indian Constitution

Key Features of the Indian Constitution are given below:

• Federalism: The Centre and State governments share power, and this ensures a balance.
• Parliamentary Government: The government is made up of elected representatives, making them answerable to the citizens.
• Separation of Powers: The Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary operate separately to ensure checks and balances.
• Basic liberties: All citizens are given rights such as equality, liberty, and protection against exploitation.
• Secularism: This is a state in which there is no official religion in the state, but all citizens are free to practice their beliefs.