Priscilla
Just as how every statute or law has a preamble, (an introductory statement to a statute) the Constitution of India has also been crowned with a preamble which clearly states its object and purpose.
The preamble of the Indian Constitution assumes great significance as it reflects the minds of its framers. The preamble is based on the ‘Objectives Resolution’ drafted and moved by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly.
The preamble consists of 4 important components which are :-
The source of the authority of the Constitution : ‘The people of India’ are the ones who give the Constitution its authority.
Nature of the Indian State : India is declared to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic and republican polity.
Objectives : Justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.
Date of adoption of the Constitution : 26th November 1949
From the preamble it is understood that the “people of India” are the ultimate authority as per the Constitution, thus confirming that India is a democracy.
The preamble also enshrines in it certain important ideals :-
Sovereignty : implies that India is an internally and externally independent supreme authority on its own, with the authority resting with the people of India.
Socialism : aims to eradicate social inequalities and prevent the concentration of wealth in a few hands.
Secularism : makes it clear that the Indian State neither possesses a religion of its own nor hinders any religion, rather gives the freedom to its citizens to follow one’s own religion of choice.
Democracy : government by the people.
Republic : indicates that the Indian State is one with the head of the State being an elected representative unlike monarchy.
Justice : pushing towards a just and egalitarian society.
Liberty : the liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship which are essential to attain democracy.
Equality : ensuring equality of status and opportunity for development to every Indian citizen.
Fraternity : stressing the importance of brotherhood among citizens.
Dignity of the individual : can be achieved only when fraternity has been attained to a good degree.
Unity and integrity of the Nation : unity among the Indian citizens is key to unity and integrity in the nation.
In the landmark case of Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, it was held that the preamble is a part of the Constitution and hence can be amended but, keeping the basic features intact, thus giving birth to the ‘basic structure doctrine’. Later, in 1976 by way of the 42nd Amendment, the preamble was amended to include the words “sovereign socialist secular democratic”.
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