In this post, we’re going to explore the beginnings of the Indian Constitution and focus on its opening statement, the Preamble. It’s like reading the first page of a book to understand what the whole story is about. So, if you want to know what India is all about, this is a great place to start!.
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution proudly proclaims India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic. It’s like the guiding light for Indian democracy, outlining its fundamental principles. The Preamble spells out these essential goals:
- Ensuring justice, encompassing social, economic, and political spheres.
- Safeguarding liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship.
- Promoting equality in both status and opportunities for all.
- Fostering fraternity to uphold individual dignity and national unity.
Drafted by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru and adopted on November 26, 1949, the Preamble contains a mere 73 words. It beautifully defines India’s state and underscores that the Indian Constitution was formed in line with the heartfelt resolution of the Indian people to create a “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic.”
Preamble of Indian Constitution Original Text
THE CONSTITUTION OF INDIA
PREAMBLE
WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute
India into a 1
[SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC
REPUBLIC] and to secure to all its citizens:
JUSTICE, social, economic and political;
LIBERTY of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
EQUALITY of status and of opportunity;
and to promote among them all
FRATERNITY assuring the dignity of the individual and the 2
[unity
and integrity of the Nation];
IN OUR CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY this twenty-sixth day of
November, 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO
OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.
- Subs. by the Constitution (Forty-second Amendment) Act, 1976, s.2, for “SOVEREIGN
DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC” (w.e.f. 3-1-1977). - Subs. by s. 2, ibid., for “Unity of the Nation” (w.e.f. 3-1-1977).
Frequently asked question on Preamble of Indian Constitution
What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution?
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a brief introductory statement that outlines the fundamental principles and objectives of the Constitution. It reflects the values and aspirations of the people of India
What are the key principles mentioned in the Preamble?
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution mentions key principles, including sovereignty, socialism, secularism, democracy, justice (social, economic, and political), liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Is the Preamble legally binding in India?
While the Preamble is not enforceable by itself in a court of law, it serves as a guiding document and helps interpret the Constitution’s provisions. The Supreme Court of India has held that it is an essential part of the Constitution.
When was the Preamble of the Indian Constitution adopted?
The Preamble was adopted on November 26, 1949, by the Constituent Assembly of India. This date is now celebrated as Constitution Day in India.
Why is the term “Secular” used in the Preamble?
The term “Secular” in the Preamble signifies that India does not endorse or promote any particular religion. It guarantees religious freedom and the separation of religion from the state, ensuring that individuals of all faiths are treated equally.