Preamble of the Indian Constitution
(Meaning, Evolution, Notes & Amendment)
Meaning & Essence
The Preamble reflects the core values, philosophy, and objectives of the Constitution.
It declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic, ensuring Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
It is not legally enforceable, but acts as a guiding principle for interpreting the Constitution.
Introduced through Objective Resolution by Jawaharlal Nehru and adopted on January 22, 1947.
🏛️ “We, the people of India, adopt, enact and give to ourselves this Constitution.” – implies popular sovereignty.
Evolution of the Preamble
Objective Resolution introduced: December 13, 1946 by Jawaharlal Nehru
Drafted by: B.N. Rau
Adopted on: January 22, 1947
Came into force: January 26, 1950
Objective Resolution Key Points:
Declared India an Independent Sovereign Republic.
Guaranteed Justice, Equality, Freedom and minority protection.
Formed the basis for the Preamble’s wording and philosophy.
Key Components of the Preamble
| Component | Meaning / Significance |
|---|---|
| Source of Power | “We, the people of India” → Sovereignty rests with the people. |
| Nature of the State | India is Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. |
| Objectives / Ideals | To secure Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity. |
| Adoption Date | November 26, 1949 (Adopted) & January 26, 1950 (Came into force). |
Ideals Explained
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Sovereign | India has supreme authority internally & externally. |
| Socialist | Added by 42nd Amendment (1976) → economic & social equality. |
| Secular | Equal respect for all religions; no official religion. |
| Democratic | Government “of, by, and for the people”. |
| Republic | Head of State is elected, not hereditary. |
Aspirations of the People
| Aspiration | Meaning / Constitutional Link |
|---|---|
| Justice | Social, Economic & Political (Part IV – DPSPs). |
| Liberty | Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith & Worship (Part III – FRs). |
| Equality | Status & Opportunity (Articles 14–18). |
| Fraternity | Promotes unity & integrity of the nation. |
⚖️ Judicial Interpretation
| Case | Judgment Summary |
|---|---|
| Berubari Case (1960) | Preamble not part of the Constitution. |
| Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) | Preamble is part of the Constitution; reflects Basic Structure. |
| LIC of India Case (1995) | Reaffirmed Preamble’s importance; not enforceable but guiding in interpretation. |
Amendment of the Preamble
Can be amended under Article 368, but cannot alter basic structure.
42nd Amendment Act (1976) → Added:
“Socialist”
“Secular”
“Integrity”
🗓️ Based on recommendations of the Sardar Swaran Singh Committee.
Significance of the Preamble
Philosophical foundation – embodies ideals of the Constitution.
Interpretative aid – used by courts to interpret ambiguous constitutional provisions.
Reflects national unity – emphasizes fraternity and integrity.
Defines constitutional identity – explains the essence and soul of the Indian Constitution.
Reflects global influence – aligns with principles of justice and equality in the UN Declaration of Human Rights (1948).
Exam Hints (Quick Revision)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Who introduced Objective Resolution? | Jawaharlal Nehru |
| When was it adopted? | January 22, 1947 |
| When did the Constitution come into force? | January 26, 1950 |
| Which case held Preamble part of the Constitution? | Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) |
| How many times amended? | Once – by 42nd Amendment (1976) |
| New words added? | Socialist, Secular, Integrity |
| What does “We, the people” signify? | Popular Sovereignty |
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