Madhavi Gaur
August 29, 2023 01:40
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Salient Features of the Indian Constitution: The Constitution of India, hailed as one of the world’s most revered legal documents, emerged from a meticulous analysis of existing global constitutions. Enacted in 1950, it has successfully weathered the tests of time. While it draws inspiration from various sources, the Indian Constitution possesses distinctive features that set it apart from others. Let’s delve into the noteworthy characteristics that define the essence of the Indian Constitution.
The Indian Constitution commences with a preamble, a foundational statement that outlines the Constitution’s objectives and fundamental principles. These objectives, derived from the preamble, have a profound influence on the key elements of the Constitution, shaping its essence both directly and indirectly.
In crafting the Indian Constitution, the framers ingeniously amalgamated the finest aspects of several prominent international constitutions, while also drawing from the Government of India Act, 1935. Despite this rich tapestry of influences, the Indian Constitution possesses a set of distinctive attributes that set it apart from other global counterparts.
Salient Features of the Indian Constitution: The beginning of the Constitution of India is marked by its Preamble. Within the Preamble, one can discover the guiding principles, goals, and fundamental tenets upon which the Constitution is built. The significant characteristics of the Constitution are directly and indirectly rooted in these principles articulated in the Preamble.
From these foundational ideals, our Constitution draws its essence. It is noteworthy that the Constitution of India has adeptly assimilated the most commendable aspects of various prominent global constitutions, suitably tailored to the specific requirements of our nation. While influenced by a multitude of international counterparts, the Constitution of India stands apart due to its unique set of notable attributes. Aspirants preparing for the IAS Exam would greatly benefit from a deep understanding of this subject matter.
This subject bears paramount importance within the Polity section (GS II) of the UPSC Syllabus.
The Indian Constitution stands as the world’s longest written constitution. Its exhaustive content reflects factors such as the vast geographical expanse and diversity of the nation. Shaped by historical influences and legal expertise, it serves as a comprehensive blueprint for governance.
While borrowing provisions from various international constitutions and the Government of India Act, 1935, the framers of the Indian Constitution tailored these elements to suit the Indian context. This fusion of borrowed features and indigenous adaptations ensures a distinctive constitutional identity.
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution encapsulates the fundamental ideals, objectives, and principles of the document. It lays the foundation for the Constitution’s salient features, reflecting the nation’s commitment to sovereignty, socialism, secularism, democracy, and social justice.
The democratic essence of the Indian Constitution places sovereignty firmly in the hands of the people. Equitable political rights and the practice of free, fair, and regular elections underscore the democratic fabric of the nation.
India’s republican governance signifies that the nation is not under monarchical rule. Instead, it has an elected head of state, the President, chosen by the people at regular intervals, fostering a democratic ethos.
The Indian Constitution establishes a federal structure with a unitary bias, adapting to the nation’s diverse needs. While delineating powers between the central and state governments, it empowers the central government during emergencies to ensure unity and stability.
Part III of the Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to citizens, protecting individual liberties. These rights, though justiciable, are not absolute and can be subject to reasonable constraints in the interest of national security.
The Directive Principles of State Policy guide government actions in fostering social and economic democracy. While not enforceable by courts, they inspire policies aimed at securing the welfare and well-being of the people.
India’s parliamentary system emphasizes a clear distinction between the nominal and real executive heads. The Council of Ministers, responsible to the Lok Sabha (Lower House), fosters close interaction between the executive and legislative branches.
The principle of universal adult franchise ensures that every adult, regardless of gender, enjoys the right to vote. This democratic cornerstone promotes inclusivity and ensures the people’s active participation in governance.
India’s Constitution establishes an independent judiciary, separate from the legislature and executive. The judiciary ensures the rule of law and safeguards fundamental rights, acting as a beacon of justice.
The amendment process, outlined in Article 368, emphasizes preserving the sanctity of the Constitution. This procedure maintains a delicate balance between evolving needs and the Constitution’s foundational principles.
India’s secularism guarantees religious freedom to all citizens. The state maintains neutrality in religious matters, promoting a diverse and harmonious social fabric.
The Basic Structure Doctrine safeguards certain core features of the Constitution from amendments by the Parliament. This doctrine ensures the Constitution’s enduring values while allowing for necessary changes.
The Constitution establishes a single integrated judicial system spanning the Union and states. The Supreme Court, along with High Courts and lower courts, upholds justice and interprets constitutional matters.
The Constitution creates independent bodies, such as the Election Commission and Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), to safeguard democratic processes and financial accountability.
The Constitution includes provisions to address challenges to national security and unity, ensuring stability during turbulent times.
The 73rd and 74th Amendment Acts introduced rural and urban local bodies, enabling self-governance at the grassroots level and fulfilling Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of self-sufficient villages.
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