Polity - Google Docs
Uploaded by
yash2000mhPolity - Google Docs
Uploaded by
yash2000mhThe Indian Constitution: Essential Concepts for Quick Recall
I. Introduction: Foundations of the Indian Constitution
he Constitution of India is a meticulously crafted legal framework that governs a vast
T
and diverse nation. Its foundational principles and unique structural characteristics
define the essence of the Indian state, guiding its democratic journey since its
inception. This report presents these essential concepts in a structured, tabular
format for enhanced understanding and recall.
Nature and Core Principles: The Preamble's Vision
he Preamble to the Indian Constitution articulates the nation's fundamental
T
aspirations and identity, declaring India to be aSovereign, Socialist, Secular,
Democratic Republic.1 It sets forth goals of
ustice,Liberty,Equality, andFraternity.1 The Preamblewas amended once in 1976
J
by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, adding "Socialist," "Secular," and
"Integrity".1 It serves as a vital interpretive key,recognized by scholars like N.A.
Palkhiwala ("Identity card of the Constitution") and K.M. Munshi ("political horoscope
of the Indian Constitution").1
Table 1: Preamble's Core Vision
Aspect Description
Nature of India Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic
Republic1
Goals for Citizens ustice (social, economic, political), Liberty
J
(thought, expression, belief, faith, worship),
Equality (status, opportunity), Fraternity
(dignity of individual, unity and integrity of
Nation)1
Amendment Amended once in 1976 (42nd CAA) to add
"Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity"1
Significance " Identity card of the Constitution" (N.A.
Palkhiwala), "political horoscope of the Indian
Constitution" (K.M. Munshi)1
Salient Features: A Unique Constitutional Tapestry
he Indian Constitution is distinguished by a collection of salient features that
T
collectively form its unique design.
Table 2: Salient Features of the Indian Constitution
Feature Description
Lengthiest Written Constitution Globally, it is the most extensive written
constitution.1
Federal Structure with Unitary Bias ombines federal elements (division of powers,
C
written constitution, independent judiciary) with
a strong unitary bias (single citizenship,
integrated judiciary, President's appointment of
governors, emergency provisions).1
Parliamentary System Operates under a parliamentary form of
government.1
Independent and Integrated Judiciary nsures judicial independence from
E
executive/legislature and a unified, hierarchical
legal system.1
Fundamental Rights and Duties Balances individual liberties with state
responsibilities and socio-economic goals.1
Directive Principles of State Policy Guiding principles for state policy and
law-making.1
Universal Adult Franchise Guarantees voting rights to all adult citizens.1
Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility Allows for amendments while preserving core
structure.1
Bicameral Legislature Comprises two houses for legislative
deliberation.1
Separation of Powers Distributes authority among government
organs to prevent concentration.1
Judicial Review Empowers the judiciary to scrutinize legislative
and executive actions.1
Single Citizenship Reinforces national unity by preventing dual
loyalties.1
Emergency Provisions Framework for the state to handle
extraordinary situations.1
II. Historical Milestones: Genesis and Adoption
he creation of the Indian Constitution was a meticulous and deliberate process,
T
marked by significant historical events and the contributions of numerous prominent
figures.
Table 3: Key Historical Dates & Figures in Constitution-Making
Date / Role Event / Figure Significance
1928 otilal Nehru (Chairman) and
M rafted the Nehru Report,
D
eight Congress leaders first major Indian effort for
constitutional framework.1
Dec 9, 1946 irst meeting of the
F Commencement of formal
Constituent Assembly constitution drafting.1
Dec 9, 1946 Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha Temporary President of the
Constituent Assembly.1
Dec 13, 1946 Jawaharlal Nehru Moved the 'Objectives
Resolution'.1
B.N. Rau Legal Advisor to the
Constituent Assembly.1
S.N. Mukherjee Chief Draftsman of the
Constituent Assembly.1
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Chairman of the Drafting
Committee.1
rafting Committee
D r. B.R. Ambedkar (Chairman),
D Key individuals responsible for
Members Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar, N. drafting the Constitution.1
Gopalaswami Ayyangar, K.M.
Munshi, Syed Muhammad
Saadulla, B.L. Mitter (replaced
by N. Madhav Rao), D.P.
Khaitan (replaced by T.T.
Krishnamachari).1
rem Behari Narayan
P Main Calligrapher (English
Raizada version).1
Vasant Krishan Vaidya Calligrapher (Hindi version).1
Nandalal Bose Decorator (original Hindi
version).1
G.V. Mavalankar Chairman of the Committee
on the Functions.1
July 22, 1947 ational Flag adopted
N Adoption of a key national
(designed by Pingali symbol.1
1
Venkayya).
Sep 14, 1949 indi in Devanagari declared
H Formal recognition of the
official language of the national language.1
Union.1
Nov 26, 1949 Constitution adopted (11th ormal acceptance of the
F
1 Constitution; celebrated as
session).
Constitution Day.1
Jan 24, 1950 onstitution signed by
C Finalization of the document
Constituent Assembly; and key national symbols.1
National Anthem adopted; Dr.
Rajendra Prasad elected first
President.1
Jan 26, 1950 Constitution came into force.1 ommencement of the
C
Republic of India; celebrated
as Republic Day.1
Time Taken 2 years, 11 months, 18 days.1 Duration of the
constitution-making process.1
Total Sessions 11 (spreading over 165 days).1 Extent of deliberations in the
Constituent Assembly.1
Total Members 389 (296 British India, 93 Composition of the
1
princely states, 15 women). Constituent Assembly.1
III. Global Influences: Borrowed Features
he Indian Constitution is frequently characterized as a "bag of borrowings" due to its
T
extensive adoption of features from various global constitutions, meticulously adapted
to India's unique socio-political context.1
Table 4: Borrowed Constitutional Concepts: A Global Tapestry
Source Country Specific Concepts Borrowed
United States of America (USA) ost of Vice President, Fundamental Rights,
P
Independent Judiciary, Judicial Review,
Impeachment of the President, Preamble
( provision itself), Method of removal of
Supreme Court and High Court judges, Idea of
'Charter of Fundamental Rights'.1
Canada ivision of powers between Union and States,
D
Residuary powers with the Centre, Federal
features, Process of appointment of the
Governor, Advisory jurisdiction of the Supreme
Court, Centrifugal form of federalism (centre
stronger than states).1
Britain (UK) arliamentary system, Ideal Rule of law, Single
P
citizenship, Cabinet System, Parliamentary
Privileges, First Past the Post (FPTP) system
(simple majority), Martial Law (restricts
Fundamental rights), Law-making process.1
Ireland Directive Principles of State Policy.1
France Ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity in the
Preamble, Republic feature.1
Australia Concurrent List, Language of the Preamble,
Freedom of Trade and Commerce.1
Germany Fundamental rights powers of the President
during enforcement of emergency.1
South Africa Process of Amending the Constitution.1
Russia (formerly USSR) undamental Duties, Ideals of justice (social,
F
economic, and political) expressed in the
Preamble.1
Japan Procedure Established by law.1
IV. Constitutional Framework: Parts and Schedules
The Indian Constitution is meticulously structured into distinct Parts and Schedules, a
design that facilitates clarity, organization, and ease of governance.
Overview of Major Parts and their Subject Matter
he Constitution is broadly divided into 22 Parts (originally), each addressing a
T
specific domain of governance and rights.1
Table 5: Major Parts of the Indian Constitution
Part Number Subject Matter Relevant Article Range
I The Union and its Territory 1 to 41
II Citizenship 5 to 111
III Fundamental Rights 12 to 351
IV irective Principles of State
D 36 to 511
Policy
IV-A Fundamental Duties 51-A1
V The Union Government 52 to 1511
VI The State Governments 152 to 2371
VII The States in Part B (Deleted) 238 (Deleted)1
VIII The Union Territories 239 to 2421
IX The Panchayats 243 to 243-O1
IX-A The Municipalities 243-P to 243-ZG1
IX-B The Co-operative Societies 243-ZH to 243-ZT1
X Scheduled and Tribal Areas 244 to 244-A1
XI elations between Union &
R 245 to 2631
States
XII inance, Property, Contracts
F 264 to 300-A1
& Suits
XIII rade, Commerce &
T 301 to 3071
Intercourse
XIV Services under Union & States 308 to 3231
XIV-A Tribunals 323-A to 323-B1
XV Elections 324 to 329-A1
XVI pecial Provisions for Certain
S 330 to 342-A1
Classes
XVII Official Language 343 to 3511
XVIII Emergency Provisions 352 to 3601
XIX Miscellaneous 361 to 3671
XX mendment of the
A 3681
Constitution
XXI emporary, Transitional &
T 369 to 3921
Special Provisions
XXII hort Title, Commencement &
S 393 to 3951
Repeals
Overview of Major Schedules and their Subject Matter
Schedules provide granular, operational details, lists, and specific provisions that are
integral to the Constitution's functioning. The Constitution currently contains 12
Schedules.1
Table 6: Schedules of the Indian Constitution
Schedule Number Description/Subject Matter ey Amendment (if added
K
later)
1st Schedule ist of states and union
L -
territories and their
territories.1
2nd Schedule alaries and Emoluments
S -
(President, Governors, Lok
Sabha Speaker and Deputy
Speaker, CJ and Judges of
High Court/Supreme Court,
etc.).1
3rd Schedule orms of Oaths or
F -
Affirmations (for CJ & Judges,
MP & State Legislature
members, Ministers, CAG,
etc.).1
4th Schedule rovisions as to the allocation
P -
of seats in the Council of
States (Rajya Sabha).1
5th Schedule dministration and Control of
A -
Scheduled Areas and
Scheduled Tribes.1
6th Schedule dministration of Tribal Areas
A -
in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura
and Mizoram.1
7th Schedule llocation of powers and
A -
functions between Union and
States (Union list: 100, State
list: 61, Concurrent list: 52
subjects).1
8th Schedule List of 22 recognized -
languages.1
9th Schedule alidation of certain Acts and
V 1st Amendment (1951)1
Regulations; abolished
Zamindari system.1
10th Schedule Disqualification on ground of 52nd Amendment (1985)1
1
defection.
11th Schedule owers, authority and
P 73rd Amendment (1992)1
responsibilities of Panchayats
(29 subjects).1
12th Schedule owers, authority and
P 74th Amendment (1992)1
responsibilities of
Municipalities (18 subjects).1
. Pillars of Rights and Governance: Fundamental Rights, DPSP,
V
and Fundamental Duties
he Indian Constitution is built upon three foundational pillars that define the
T
relationship between the state and its citizens: Fundamental Rights, Directive
Principles of State Policy (DPSP), and Fundamental Duties.
Fundamental Rights (Part III, Articles 12-35)
undamental Rights are the "Magna Carta of Indian Constitution".1 They are justiciable
F
and protect individuals from state exploitation.1 Initially seven, the Right to Property
was removed by the 44th Amendment Act of 1978 and made a legal right under Article
300-A.1 Articles 20 and 21 cannot be suspended evenduring a National Emergency.1
Table 7: Fundamental Rights at a Glance
Type of Right Article Range Key Provisions/Examples
Right to Equality 14-18 quality before law (14), no
E
discrimination (15), equality of
opportunity (16), abolition of
untouchability (17) and titles
(18).1
Right to Freedom 19-22 reedoms of speech,
F
assembly, association,
movement, residence,
profession (19); protection in
respect of conviction for
offenses (20); protection of
life and personal liberty (21);
right to education (21A);
protection against arrest and
detention (22).1
Right against Exploitation 23-24 rohibition of human
P
trafficking and forced labour
(23); prohibition of
employment of children in
factories (24).1
Right to Freedom of Religion 25-28 reedom of conscience,
F
practice, and propagation of
religion (25); freedom to
manage religious affairs (26);
freedom from taxes for
promotion of any religion (27);
freedom from religious
instruction in
state-maintained institutions
(28).1
ultural and Educational
C 29-30 rotection of interests of
P
Rights minorities (29); right of
minorities to establish and
administer educational
institutions (30).1
ight to Constitutional
R 32 ight to move Supreme Court
R
Remedies for enforcement of FRs; power
of SC to issue writs (Habeas
orpus, Mandamus,
C
Prohibition, Quo-Warranto,
ertiorari).1 Called 'Heart And
C
Soul Of The Constitution' by
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.1
Restrictions 33-34 arliament can restrict FRs for
P
armed forces (33); restrictions
during martial law (34).1
Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV, Articles 36-51)
PSPs are guiding principles for the state, inspired by the Irish Constitution.1 They are
D
not justiciable but are fundamental in governance.1
Table 8: Key Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
Article Number Key Provision Significance/Purpose
38 tate to promote public
S Guides state towards
welfare, reduce income socio-economic justice.1
1
inequalities.
39 ivelihood for all, common
L Ensures equitable distribution
good of material resources, and social welfare.1
1
equal pay for equal work.
39A qual justice and free legal aid
E Promotes access to justice for
(added by 42nd Amendment, all.1
1
1976).
40 rganization of village
O Decentralizes governance to
panchayats as grassroots.1
1
self-government units.
41 ight to Work, Education,
R Aims for social security and
Public Assistance in certain basic welfare.1
1
circumstances.
42 Just and humane conditions Ensures fair labor practices
of work, maternity relief.1 and support for mothers.1
43 iving wage, decent standard
L trives for economic
S
of life, promotion of cottage well-being and rural
industries.1 development.1
43A orkers' participation in
W Promotes industrial
industry management (added democracy.1
1
by 42nd Amendment, 1976).
44 Uniform Civil Code (UCC).1 Aims for uniform personal
laws across religions.1
45 arly childhood care and
E Focuses on foundational
education for children below 6 education.1
1
years.
46 romotion of educational and
P Supports affirmative action
economic interests of SC, ST, for marginalized groups.1
1
and weaker sections.
48A rotection and improvement
P Prioritizes environmental
of environment, forests, and conservation.1
wildlife (added by 42nd
Amendment, 1976).1
50 Separation of judiciary from Ensures judicial
1
executive. independence.1
51 Promote international peace Guides foreign policy towards
1
and security. global harmony.1
Fundamental Duties (Part IV-A, Article 51A)
undamental Duties were inspired by the Russian Constitution and added by the 42nd
F
Amendment Act of 1976 (initially 10 duties), with an 11th added by the 86th
Amendment Act of 2002.1 They are based on the SwaranSingh Committee
recommendations.1 While not legally binding, theyserve as a moral compass.1
Table 9: Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)
Duty Number Description (Article 51A)
1 o abide by the Constitution and respect its
T
ideals and institutions, the National Flag and
the National Anthem.1
2 To cherish and follow the noble ideals which
inspired our national struggle for freedom.1
3 To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity
and integrity of India.1
4 To defend the country and render national
service when called upon to do so.1
5 o promote harmony and the spirit of common
T
brotherhood amongst all the people of India
transcending religious, linguistic and regional
or sectional diversities; to renounce practices
derogatory to the dignity of women.1
6 To value and preserve the rich heritage of our
composite culture.1
7 o protect and improve the natural environment
T
including forests, lakes, rivers and wildlife, and
to have compassion for living creatures.1
8 To develop the scientific temper, humanism and
the spirit of inquiry and reform.1
9 To safeguard public property and to abjure
violence.1
10 o strive towards excellence in all spheres of
T
individual and collective activity so that the
nation constantly rises to higher levels of
endeavour and achievement.1
11 o provide opportunities for education to his
T
child or, as the case may be, ward between the
age of six and fourteen years (added by 86th
Amendment, 2002).1
VI. Organs of Government: Structure and Functions
he Indian Constitution establishes a clear framework for the governance of the
T
nation by delineating the structure and functions of its three primary organs: the
Executive, the Legislature, and the Judiciary, at both Union and State levels.1
Union Executive: The Apex of Administration
he Union Executive comprises the President, Vice-President, Prime Minister, Council
T
of Ministers, and the Attorney General.1
Table 10: Union Executive - Key Roles and Articles
Office Key Function/Role Relevant Article(s)
President Head of State, Executive 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 60,
1
power of Union. Elected by 61, 721
electoral college.1 Term of 5
years, eligible for re-election.1
Pardoning Power.1
Vice-President Ex-officio Chairman of Rajya 63, 64, 65, 661
1
Sabha. Acts as President
during vacancies.1
rime Minister & Council of
P Real Executive. Aid and advise 74(1), 75(1), 75(2), 75(3), 77, 78
Ministers 1 1
President. Collectively
r esponsible to Lok Sabha.1
CoM size limited to 15% of Lok
Sabha (91st Amendment,
2003).1
Attorney General hief Legal Advisor to GoI.1
C 76, 76(1), 76(2), 76(3), 76(4)1
Right of audience in all
courts.1 Holds office during
President's pleasure.1
Union Legislature (Parliament): The Law-Making Body
he Union Legislature, known as the Parliament, is the supreme law-making body of
T
India.1 It consists of the President, Lok Sabha, andRajya Sabha.1
Table 11: Union Legislature - Key Aspects and Articles
Body/Aspect Key Provisions/Roles Relevant Article(s)
Parliament (Overall) Consists of President, Lok 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 98, 101, 102,
1
abha, Rajya Sabha. Deals
S 105, 108, 120, 1231
with formation, structure,
procedure, privileges,
powers.1 Business in Hindi or
English.1 President's
Ordinance Power.1 Quorum is
1/10th of members.1
ajya Sabha (Council of
R aximum strength 250.1 Vice
M 80, 89, 901
States) President is ex-officio
Chairman.1 Can recommend
Money Bills within 14 days.1
ok Sabha (House of the
L Qualifications for membership 81, 84, 93, 94, 109, 110, 111, 112
People) 1 1
(citizen, 25+ years). Speaker
and Deputy Speaker.1 Money
ills introduced only here.1
B
Speaker's decision on Money
Bill is final.1 Annual Financial
Statement (Budget).1
No-Confidence Motion
requires 50 members.1
Judiciary: The Guardian of the Constitution
he Judiciary, an independent and integrated system, serves as the guardian of the
T
Constitution.1
Table 12: Judiciary - Key Courts and Articles
Court Key Provisions/Powers Relevant Article(s)
Supreme Court Court of Record.1 Can review 124, 125, 126, 127, 129, 130, 137,
its own judgments. 1 140, 142, 143, 1441
Enforcement of decrees (incl.
sex work as profession).1
resident can consult.1
P
Civil/judicial authorities aid
SC.1
High Courts ourt of Record.1 Writ
C 214, 215, 216, 217, 223, 226,
Jurisdiction for FR 231, 348(1)1
enforcement.1 Common High
Court for multiple states/UTs.1
English is official language.1
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG): The Public Purse Watchdog
The CAG is an independent authority auditing Union and State government accounts.1
Table 13: Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) - Key Articles
Office Key Provisions/Role Relevant Article(s)
CAG Audits Union and State 148, 149, 150, 1511
1
government accounts.
Appointed by President.1
uties and powers defined.1
D
Audit reports presented to
President, then Parliament.1
State Executive: Governance at the State Level
he State Executive mirrors the Union Executive structure, operating at the state
T
level.1
Table 14: State Executive - Key Roles and Articles
Office Key Function/Role Relevant Article(s)
Governor Constitutional Head of State.1 153, 154, 155, 156, 157, 158,
Executive power of State. 1 159, 161, 200, 213, 361, 371H1
ppointed by President.1 Term
A
of 5 years, holds office during
President's pleasure.1
Pardoning Power.1 Ordinance
Power.1 Can reserve bills for
President.1 Protection from
courts.1 Special responsibility
for Arunachal Pradesh.1
hief Minister & Council of
C Real Executive at State Level.1 163, 164(1), 164(2), 164(3),
Ministers id and advise Governor.1
A 164(4), 166, 166(1)1
Collectively responsible to
egislative Assembly.1
L
Ministers take oath by
overnor.1 Minister not
G
member of legislature for 6
onths ceases office.1
m
Executive action in Governor's
name.1
Advocate General hief Legal Advisor to State.1
C 165, 1771
Right to speak in State
Legislature.1
State Legislature: State-Level Law-Making
The State Legislature is responsible for law-making at the state level.1
Table 15: State Legislature - Key Aspects and Articles
Body/Aspect Key Provisions/Roles Relevant Article(s)
Legislature (Overall) Constitution of Legislatures in 168, 172, 173, 174, 175, 176, 177,
1
States. Duration of State 187, 1951
Legislatures.1 Qualifications
for membership.1 Sessions,
prorogation, dissolution.1
overnor's address.1
G
Advocate General's right to
speak.1 Secretariat.1 Salaries
& Allowances.1
Legislative Council Composition (not less than 40 171, 172(2), 182, 1981
members).1 Not subject to
dissolution.1 Money Bills not
introduced here.1
Legislative Assembly Speaker/Deputy Speaker.1 1781
VII. Other Key Constitutional Provisions
The Indian Constitution includes a range of other crucial provisions that address local
s elf-governance, inter-state relations, public services, special provisions for
marginalized communities, official languages, and mechanisms for handling
emergencies and constitutional amendments.
Table 16: Other Key Constitutional Provisions
Category Subject Matter elevant Article(s) /
R Key Provisions
Amendment
ocal
L Panchayats Part IX, 73rd Constitutional status,
1
Self-Governance Amendment, 1992 29 subjects.1
Municipalities Part IX-A, 74th Constitutional status,
1
Amendment, 1992 18 subjects.1
o-operative
C Part IX-B, 97th Constitutional
1
Societies Amendment, 2011 backing.1
Union Territories Part VIII1 pecial provisions for
S
Delhi (239AA), failure
of constitutional
machinery in Delhi
(239AB), High Courts
for UTs (241).1
entre-State
C Legislative Relations Part XI, 245-2631 xtent of laws (245),
E
Relations additional courts
(247), Union control
over States (257),
Inter-State Council
(263).1
Financial Provisions Part XII1 ST Council (279A,
G
101st Amendment,
2016).1 Finance
ommission (280).1
C
Right to Property as
legal right (300A).1
Public Services ublic Service
P Part XIV1 PSC, SPSCs (315),
U
Commissions removal/suspension
(317), reports (323),
All-India Services
(312).1
Elections Election Commission Part XV1 uperintendence,
S
direction, control of
lections (324).1
e
Parliament's power
for election
rovisions (327).1 Bar
p
to court interference
(329).1 CEC tenure (6
years/65 years).1
pecial Provisions
S SC/ST/OBC Part XVI1 Reservation of seats
for Classes in Assemblies (332).1
National
Commissions for SC
(338), ST (338A), OBC
(338B, 102nd
Amendment, 2018).1
Official Language Language Provisions Part XVII1 indi in Devanagari
H
as official language
( 343(1)).1 English for
High Courts/Supreme
ourt (348(1)).1
C
Mother-tongue
instruction (350A).1
Special Officer for
linguistic minorities
(350B).1 8th Schedule
lists 22 languages.1
mergency
E ypes of
T Part XVIII1 National Emergency
Provisions Emergencies ( 352).1 Duty of Union
to protect States
(355).1 President's
ule (356).1
R
Suspension of Article
19 (358).1 Financial
Emergency (360).1
Constitutional Amendment Part XX1 Power of Parliament
Amendment Procedure to amend
Constitution (368).1
rotection of
P President, Governors 3611 rotection from court
P
Functionaries answerability for
official duties.1
III. Significant Constitutional Amendments: A Timeline of
V
Change
he Indian Constitution is a living document, constantly adapting to the evolving
T
needs of the nation through its amendment process.
Table 17: Landmark Constitutional Amendments
Amendment Number Year Key Change/Impact
1st Amendment 1951 dded Ninth Schedule (land
A
reform protection); added
restrictions to Article 19(1)
(freedom of speech).1
7th Amendment 1956 Implemented State
Reorganisation Act; abolished
state classifications;
introduced 14 states and 6
UTs; extended HC jurisdiction
to UTs.1
10th Amendment 1961 Incorporated Dadra and
Nagar Haveli into Indian
Union.1
12th Amendment 1962 Incorporated Goa, Daman and
Diu as UT.1
21st Amendment 1967 Included Sindhi as 15th
language in Eighth Schedule.1
26th Amendment 1971 bolished Privy Purse and
A
privileges of former princely
rulers.1
36th Amendment 1975 Formed state of Sikkim.1
40th Amendment 1976 ested Union with rights over
V
territorial waters, continental
shelf, exclusive economic
zone (related to Article 297).1
42nd Amendment 1976 " Mini Constitution"; added
"Socialist," "Secular,"
"Integrity" to Preamble; added
Part IVA (Fundamental
Duties); changed Lok Sabha
term to 6 years (reversed
later); moved subjects from
State to Concurrent List; gave
DPSP more importance than
FR; added 4 DPSPs (39(f),
39A, 43A, 48A).1
44th Amendment 1978 epealed controversial 42nd
R
Amendment provisions;
restored civil liberties;
removed Right to Property
from FR.1
52nd Amendment 1985 Anti-Defection laws; added
10th Schedule.1
56th Amendment 1987 Gave state status to Goa.1
61st Amendment 1989 Lowered voting age from 21 to
18 years.1
71st Amendment 1992 Included Konkani, Manipuri,
Nepali in Eighth Schedule
(total 18 languages).1
73rd Amendment 1992 -tier Panchayati Raj system
3
(pop >20 lakhs); added Part
IX; constitutional status to
Panchayats.1
74th Amendment 1992 unicipalities; added Part IXA;
M
constitutional status to Urban
Local Bodies.1
86th Amendment 2002 Right to Education (Art 21A)
for 6-14 years.1
88th Amendment 2003 Provision for Service Tax (Art
268A).1
91st Amendment 2003 CoM size not to exceed 15%
of Lok Sabha strength.1
92nd Amendment 2003 Included Bodo, Dogri, Santali,
Maithili in 8th Schedule (total
22 languages).1
93rd Amendment 2005 pecial provisions for
S
advancement of
socially/educationally
backward classes (OBC
reservation in educational
institutions).1
97th Amendment 2011 Added Part IX(B) for
Co-operative Societies.1
99th Amendment 2014 ormed National Judicial
F
Appointments Commission
(NJAC), later declared
unconstitutional by SC.1
100th Amendment 2015 India-Bangladesh enclaves
exchange (assented by
President Pranab Mukherjee).1
101st Amendment 2016 Introduced Goods and
Services Tax (GST).1
102nd Amendment 2018 onstitutional status to
C
National Commission for
Backward Classes.1
103rd Amendment 2019 1 0% EWS reservation in
education and public
employment (upheld by SC in
2022).1
104th Amendment 2020 emoved Anglo-Indian seats;
R
extended SC/ST reservations
for 10 years.1
105th Amendment 2021 Restored state power to
recognize SEBCs.1
106th Amendment 2023 eserves one-third of seats
R
for women in Lok Sabha, State
Legislative Assemblies, and
Delhi Legislative Assembly.1
IX. Conclusion: The Living Constitution
he Indian Constitution, a product of meticulous deliberation and global inspiration,
T
stands as a testament to democratic ideals and a framework for continuous national
development. Its comprehensive design, enshrined rights, guiding principles, and
adaptable amendment process ensure its continued relevance and resilience in a
dynamic world.
rom its historical roots in the Nehru Report and the extensive efforts of the
F
Constituent Assembly to its continuous evolution through numerous amendments, the
Constitution remains the supreme law of the land. Its foundational principles, such as
the declaration of India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic, are
not static but are interpreted and reinforced through the document's structure and
subsequent changes. The strategic adoption of features from various global
constitutions, carefully adapted to India's unique context, speaks to the pragmatism of
its framers in building a robust democratic framework.
he detailed categorization into Parts and Schedules provides an organized and
T
logical structure for governance, while the distinct roles of Fundamental Rights,
Directive Principles of State Policy, and Fundamental Duties balance individual
liberties with collective responsibilities and state welfare objectives. The intricate
s ystem of Union and State organs, with their defined powers and checks and
balances, ensures accountability and efficient administration across the federal
structure.
he sheer volume and diversity of constitutional amendments underscore the
T
document's dynamic nature, demonstrating its capacity to respond to socio-political
shifts, economic reforms, and social justice imperatives. The interplay between
legislative power and judicial review, particularly evident in the Supreme Court's role in
upholding the basic structure, ensures that the Constitution adapts while preserving
its core identity. This adaptability, coupled with the inherent checks and balances in its
design, positions the Constitution as a living instrument that facilitates continuous
national development and the persistent pursuit of its stated ideals of justice, liberty,
equality, and fraternity.
Works cited
1. accessed on January 1, 1970,
You might also like
- Laxmikanth Summary - Salient Features of The Constitution - Indian Polity For UPSC CSE PDF DownloadNo ratings yetLaxmikanth Summary - Salient Features of The Constitution - Indian Polity For UPSC CSE PDF Download14 pages
- Historical Background and Framing of Indian ConstitutionNo ratings yetHistorical Background and Framing of Indian Constitution17 pages
- Laxmikanth Summary Salient Features of The Constitution - Indian Polity For UPSC CSE PDF DownloadNo ratings yetLaxmikanth Summary Salient Features of The Constitution - Indian Polity For UPSC CSE PDF Download2 pages
- Features of The Indian Constitution - 44164498 - 2025 - 07 - 11 - 19 - 47No ratings yetFeatures of The Indian Constitution - 44164498 - 2025 - 07 - 11 - 19 - 474 pages
- GV Kaksha Polity Revised in English Join (@apna - PDF)100% (2)GV Kaksha Polity Revised in English Join (@apna - PDF)85 pages
- Assignment Criminal Law (On The Issue of Arrest)No ratings yetAssignment Criminal Law (On The Issue of Arrest)3 pages
- United States v. Richard Anthony Wilford, 66 F.3d 318, 4th Cir. (1995)No ratings yetUnited States v. Richard Anthony Wilford, 66 F.3d 318, 4th Cir. (1995)3 pages
- Eric C. Steinhart - The Holocaust and The Germanization of Ukraine100% (4)Eric C. Steinhart - The Holocaust and The Germanization of Ukraine278 pages
- Application For Cancellation of Warrants of Arrest in FIRNo ratings yetApplication For Cancellation of Warrants of Arrest in FIR2 pages
- Egypt's State Information Service Statement To Foreign Correspondents100% (3)Egypt's State Information Service Statement To Foreign Correspondents4 pages
- Shadow On The Stars Robert Silverberg Download100% (4)Shadow On The Stars Robert Silverberg Download31 pages