Indian Constitution
The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the country, serving as the framework for political principles, procedures, and powers of government institutions. Here are key aspects of the Indian Constitution:
Historical Context
- Drafting: The Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly, formed in 1946.
- Adoption: Adopted on November 26, 1949, it came into effect on January 26, 1950, now celebrated as Republic Day.
Structure
- Preamble: States the objectives of the Constitution: Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
- Parts: The Constitution is divided into 25 parts, including schedules and articles.
- Articles: Originally containing 395 articles, it now has around 470 due to amendments.
Key Features
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Federal System with Unitary Bias:
- India is a federal country with a strong central government.
- Division of powers between the Centre and States.
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Parliamentary System:
- Bicameral Parliament: Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
- Prime Minister as head of government.
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Separation of Powers:
- Distinct executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
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Independent Judiciary:
- Supreme Court at the apex, followed by High Courts and subordinate courts.
- Judicial review power to ensure the Constitution is upheld.
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Fundamental Rights:
- Articles 12 to 35 enumerate Fundamental Rights.
- Rights include equality, freedom, protection from exploitation, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights, and constitutional remedies.
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Directive Principles of State Policy:
- Guidelines for the state to create a just society.
- Non-justiciable but fundamental in governance.
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Fundamental Duties:
- Added by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.
- Citizens’ duties to promote harmony and spirit of common brotherhood.