The Preamble to the Indian Constitution – Interpretation
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution was an introduction to the purpose and intent behind the constitution. The Preamble is a gist of the following things –
Interpretation
- Source of Power
- Nature of Indian State
- Objectives
- Date of Commencement
Source of the Constitution
The source of the Indian Constitution is the people of India. The phrase “We the People of India” emphasizes that the Constitution is made of, for, and by the people. India is a sovereign power and it doesn’t derive power from outside.
The Preamble highlights the concept of popular sovereignty. It states that all the power comes from the people, and the political system is accountable to the people.
Nature of Indian state
India is a Sovereign Country
- This means that all its decisions related to defense, communications, strategy, is nowhere influenced by any external power.
- That India is a free country and the people of the country can elect a government accountable to them.
- That representatives of the people could make the law of the land.
India is a Socialist country
- Socialist, in an economic sense, focuses on a state own means of production and distribution.
- India adopted a mixed economy, where both public and private production could co-exist.
- Socialist, in a social sense talks about social equality.
India is a Secular country
This means that India doesn’t have a state religion.
All persons have an equal entitlement to practice, profess and propagate their religion.
It talks about freedom of conscience.
India is a Democratic country
- It means that the law of land is driven by the Constitution, which is executed by the elected representatives of the country.
- The rule of the land is for the people, and the law makers are elected by the people of the country.
- The representatives are responsible to the ones who choose them.
India is a Republic country
- In India, the head of the state is not appointed, but elected.
- Monarchy, on the other hand, has an appointed representative.
- The Head of the State in India can be elected both directly or indirectly.
- The Head is chosen for a fixed tenure.
- The Head of State in India is the President, who is elected by an electoral college for a term of five years.
What were the Objectives of the Indian State?
- Social, Economic and Political Justice.
- Equality of opportunity and status.
- Assuring the dignity of the individual, along with the unity and integrity of the nation.
- Fraternity, meaning brotherhood.
- Liberty of speech, thought, faith, belief and worship.
Date of Commencement
The Constitution of India was adopted on 26th November 1949. However, most of the articles came into force on 26th January 1950.
The following articles came into force on the date of adoption (26th November 1949)
- Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
- Article 60
- Articles 324, 366, 367, 379, 380, 388, 391, 392, 393, 394
26th January 1950 is the date of commencement of the Indian Constitution.
The day is special because it was on this day back in 1930, that Purna Swaraj, or the Declaration of complete independence was proclaimed by Congress.
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