In this article, we will discuss Preamble of Indian Constitution (Part-1). So, let’s get started.
Preamble of Indian Constitution
The American Constitution was the first to begin with a Preamble. Many countries, including India, followed this practice. The term ‘Preamble’ refers to the introduction or preface to the Constitution. It contains the summary or essence of the Constitution. N.A. Palkhivala, an eminent jurist and constitutional expert, called the Preamble as the ‘identity card of the Constitution”.
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is based on the ‘Objectives Resolution’, drafted and moved by Pandit Nehru, and adopted by the Constituent Assembly’. It has been amended by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act (1976), which added three new words – Socialist, Secular and Integrity.
Text of the Preamble
The Preamble in its present form reads:
“We, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a 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 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”.
Ingredients of the Preamble
The Preamble reveals four ingredients or components:
Source of authority of the Constitution: The Preamble states that the Constitution derives its authority from the people of India,
Nature of Indian State: It declares India to be of a sovereign, socialist, secular democratic and republican polity.
Objectives of the Constitution: It specifies justice, liberty, equality and fraternity as the objectives.
Date of adoption of the Constitution: It stipulates November 26, 1949, as the date.
