The Preamble of the Indian Constitution Notes Summary UPSC
Preamble Notes for UPSC
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a brief introductory statement that outlines the fundamental principles and objectives of the Constitution. Therefore, Eminent Jurist Nani Palkhiwala called Preamble as “Identity Card of the Constitution”.
The Preamble’s function is to define who the Constitution is for, the sanction, the direction, the character of policy, and the Constitution’s goals and objectives.
It has been rightly called the “Horoscope of the Constitution” by KM Munshi, as it tells us about how the Indian state would be after its independence.
It reads as follows:
Unlike the constitutions of Australia, the United States, and Canada, India’s Constitution features a lengthy Preamble. Many constitutions over the world begin with a preamble to them to give an idea about the nature of polity in the country.
Historical Background of Preamble of Indian Constitution
Objective resolution
- The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is primarily based on the Objective Resolution written by Jawaharlal Nehru. He introduced this objective resolution on December 13, 1946, and the Constituent Assembly adopted it on January 22, 1947.
- The objective resolution was a pledge, an undertaking and a firm resolve that guided the constituent assembly for three years till the constitution was made.
- Initially, the Preamble was drafted by Sh. B. N. Rau in his memorandum of May 30, 1947, and was later reproduced in the Draft of October 7, 1947. In the context of the deliberations by the Constituent Assembly, the Preamble was reformulated.
- It was adopted on 26 November 1949, and implemented on January 26, 1950, also known as Republic Day.
In forming the Preamble based on Objective Resolution, the Drafting Committee felt that the Preamble should only deal with the basic features of the State and its objectives. The Committee has mentioned the words Sovereign, Democratic, and Republic Purpose.
Related FAQs of The Preamble of the Indian Constitution
The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Indian Constitution that outlines its philosophy, objectives, and key principles like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Eminent Jurist Nani Palkhiwala referred to the Preamble of India as the “Identity Card of the Constitution”.
The key words include: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic, Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity, and Integrity (added by 42nd Amendment 1976).
Yes, the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) declared the Preamble as a part of the Constitution. It guides in interpreting the Constitution.
Yes, the Preamble can be amended under Article 368. It was amended only once by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 adding Socialist, Secular, and Integrity.
