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The Indian Constitution: A Pillar of Democracy

Introduction

The Indian Constitution is the cornerstone of India’s democracy, shaping the nation as a sovereign, secular, and inclusive republic. Adopted on November 26, 1949, it reflects the aspirations of a newly independent nation, ensuring justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all.

Drafted by the Constituent Assembly, formed on December 6, 1946, the Constitution incorporated global best practices while addressing India’s unique socio-political needs. It became the lengthiest and most detailed Constitution in the world, uniting a diverse population and safeguarding citizens’ rights.

This ebook celebrates 75 years of the Indian Constitution, highlighting 75 key facts about its origins, principles, and continued relevance. Each fact provides insights into the enduring legacy of the document that continues to guide and inspire the world’s largest democracy.

Formation of the Constituent Assembly

Assembly Composition

  • The Constituent Assembly initially had 389 members.
  • 292 members were elected through Provincial Legislative Assemblies, 93 represented Indian Princely States, and 4 represented Chief Commissioners’ Provinces.
  • Members were chosen via indirect elections, as per the Cabinet Mission’s recommendations.

Inaugural Session

  • The first session was held on December 9, 1946, in the Constitution Hall (now Samvidhan Sadan).
  • Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha served as interim President.
  • On December 11, 1946, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as permanent President of the Constituent Assembly.

Post-Partition Changes

  • The Mountbatten Plan (June 3, 1947) led to the creation of a separate Constituent Assembly for Pakistan.
  • Some representatives from Indian Provinces ceased to be part of the Assembly.
  • The Assembly’s membership was reduced to 299.

Seats and Nominations

  • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar initially contested from Bombay Presidency, but lost.
  • Later, he was elected from Bengal, but lost his seat after partition. Congress then nominated him from Bombay Presidency.
  • Of 299 total members, 229 were elected from 12 Indian Provinces, and 70 were nominated from 29 Princely States.

Women Pioneers in the Assembly

  • The Assembly included 15 women members.
  • Notable figures: Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, and Sucheta Kripalani.
  • These women played a crucial role in advocating for equal rights.

Key Events and Milestones

First Proceedings

  • The first session on December 9, 1946, began with the singing of Vande Mataram.
  • Acharya Kripalani delivered the inaugural address, emphasizing unity and diversity.

Adoption of the National Flag

  • The Tricolor was adopted by the Assembly on July 22, 1947.
  • It was used as India’s flag from August 15, 1947, and later as the Republic’s official flag on January 26, 1950.

Transition to Legislative Assembly

  • On August 14, 1947, the Assembly met at midnight to transition into India’s first Legislative Assembly.
  • This marked the final steps of India’s independence from British rule.

Committees and Drafting Process

Key Committees

  • Dr. Rajendra Prasad chaired the Rules of Procedure, Steering, Finance, and National Flag Committees.
  • B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya led the House Committee.
  • K.M. Munshi headed the Order of Business Committee.

Drafting Committee

  • Formed on August 29, 1947, with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as Chairman.
  • Worked for 141 days to prepare the Draft Constitution.
  • The original draft had 315 articles and 8 Schedules.

Deliberations and Amendments

  • The Constituent Assembly debated for 165 days on the Draft Constitution.
  • 7,635 amendments were proposed, of which 2,473 were accepted.
  • The final Constitution had 395 Articles, 22 Parts, and 8 Schedules.

Adoption and Implementation

Final Session and Signing

  • The final meeting was held on January 24, 1950.
  • 284 members signed the Constitution.
  • Jana Gana Mana was declared India’s National Anthem.

Key Dates

  • Adopted: November 26, 1949 (Celebrated as Constitution Day).
  • Came into Force: January 26, 1950 (Republic Day).

Influences and Guiding Principles

Global Influences

  • Government of India Act, 1935: Federal structure, governor’s office, judiciary.
  • U.S. Constitution: Fundamental Rights, judicial review, impeachment process.
  • Irish Constitution: Directive Principles of State Policy, President’s election process.

Gandhian Ideals

  • Promotion of cottage industries and self-reliance.
  • Prohibition of alcohol consumption.
  • Incorporated into Directive Principles of State Policy.

Social Equality Provisions

  • Article 17: Abolishes untouchability.
  • Article 18(1): Prohibits titles, except military and academic distinctions.
  • Ensured affirmative action for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

Preservation and Legacy

Handwritten Constitution

  • The original Constitution was handwritten in English and Hindi.
  • Calligraphy was done by Prem Behari Narain Raizada.

Artistic Illustrations

  • Decorated by Nandalal Bose, featuring 22 miniature illustrations.

Preservation Efforts

  • Original copies are preserved in helium-filled cases in Parliament Library.
  • 1,000 offset-printed copies were produced by Survey of India in 1955.

Conclusion

On January 26, 1950, India officially transitioned into a Republic, replacing the Government of India Act, 1935. The first General Elections (1951-52) marked the practical implementation of democracy, setting India on a path toward self-governance, inclusivity, and progress.

The Indian Constitution remains a living document, continuously evolving to meet the aspirations of a diverse and dynamic society.

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