1.3 Preamble and Salient Features of the Indian Constitution


SIMPLY SMART


Introduction

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is described by scholars like D.D. Basu and Subhash C. Kashyap as the identity card or philosophy of the Constitution. It reflects the ideals, values, and goals that guided the Constituent Assembly in framing the Constitution.
The Salient Features highlight the major characteristics that make the Indian Constitution one of the most unique and comprehensive constitutions in the world.


I. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution

Text of the Preamble (As per 42nd Amendment, 1976)

“WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation…”


II. Key Elements of the Preamble

1. Source of Authority – “We, the People of India”

  • Indicates that the Constitution derives its power from the citizens, not any external authority.

  • Signifies popular sovereignty.

2. Nature of the State

The Preamble declares India as:

  • Sovereign – Free from external control; independent.

  • Socialist – Aim for social and economic equality; welfare state.

  • Secular – No state religion; equal respect for all religions.

  • Democratic – Government based on elections and rule of law.

  • Republic – Head of state is elected, not hereditary.

3. Objectives of the Constitution

  • Justice: Social, Economic, Political

  • Liberty: Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith, Worship

  • Equality: Status, Opportunity

  • Fraternity: Unity, Integrity, Dignity of the individual

These goals form what Subhash Kashyap calls the “soul of the Constitution.”


III. Significance of the Preamble

(As discussed by D.D. Basu)

  • Expresses the ideal aims and aspirations of the people.

  • Serves as the guiding principle for the Constitution.

  • Helps in interpretation of laws by courts.

  • Declared as an integral part of the Constitution in the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973).




IV. Salient Features of the Indian Constitution

According to D.D. Basu, P.M. Bakshi, and Subhash Kashyap, the Indian Constitution has the following major features:

1. Lengthiest Written Constitution

  • Originally had 395 Articles, 22 Parts, and 8 Schedules.

  • Adopted laws, principles from various world constitutions.

2. Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility

  • Some provisions require special majority to amend.

  • Others can be amended by simple majority.

  • Balances stability with adaptability.

3. Federal System with Unitary Bias

  • India is federal (Union–State division) but with strong central powers.

  • Important during emergencies → becomes more unitary.

4. Parliamentary System of Government

  • Based on the British model.

  • President = Nominal head

  • Prime Minister & Council of Ministers = Real executive

  • Ensures accountability of the executive to the legislature.

5. Fundamental Rights

  • Borrowed from the U.S. Bill of Rights.

  • Guarantees:

    • Equality

    • Freedom

    • Protection from exploitation

    • Freedom of religion

    • Cultural and educational rights

    • Constitutional remedies

6. Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)

  • Inspired by the Irish Constitution.

  • Aim to create social and economic democracy.

  • Guide the government in policymaking.

7. Fundamental Duties

  • Added by the 42nd Amendment (1976).

  • Inspired by the USSR.

  • Emphasize responsible citizenship.

8. Secular State

  • No official religion.

  • Equal treatment to all religions.

  • Religious freedom guaranteed by Articles 25–28.

9. Independent Judiciary

  • Supreme Court, High Courts, and subordinate courts.

  • Judiciary has power of judicial review.

  • Acts as guardian of the Constitution.

10. Single Citizenship

  • Only Indian citizenship, unlike U.S. dual citizenship.

  • Promotes national unity.

11. Universal Adult Franchise

  • Every citizen above 18 years has the right to vote.

  • Strengthens democratic participation.

12. Emergency Provisions

  • Borrowed from Germany.

  • Allow the Centre to take extra powers during:

    • National Emergency

    • State Emergency

    • Financial Emergency

13. Panchayati Raj and Municipalities

  • Added by 73rd and 74th Amendments.

  • Strengthens grassroots democracy.

Conclusion 

The Preamble provides the philosophical framework of the Constitution, expressing the vision of the founders for a sovereign, just, equal, and democratic nation. The Salient Features highlight the unique blend of federalism, parliamentary democracy, fundamental rights, and welfare goals, making the Indian Constitution a remarkable document admired worldwide.
These elements collectively shape India into a progressive, inclusive, and democratic republic.



— End of Article | Aivette-COI (Constitution of India by Aivette)

Your simple, smart guide to understanding the Indian Constitution.




— Aivette-COI

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