Chapter 1: Constitution – Why and How?
- What is a constitution?
A constitution is a set of fundamental rules and principles that guides the functioning of a country’s political and legal system. - Why do we need a constitution?
To maintain order, protect rights, define power-sharing, and provide a legal framework for governance and justice in a nation. - What are the main functions of a constitution?
It lays out the structure of government, limits powers, protects rights, and ensures rule of law and democracy. - Who wrote the Indian Constitution?
The Constituent Assembly, chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, drafted the Constitution of India between 1946 and 1949. - When did the Indian Constitution come into effect?
It came into effect on 26th January 1950, celebrated as Republic Day. - What inspired the Indian Constitution?
India borrowed features from many constitutions, including the UK (Parliamentary system), USA (Fundamental Rights), and USSR (Five-Year Plans). - What is a preamble?
The preamble is the introduction to the Constitution that reflects the ideals and objectives of the nation. - What does the Preamble of India declare?
It declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and assures Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. - Why is the Indian Constitution called a living document?
It can adapt to changing times through amendments, reflecting democratic flexibility and growth. - What is constitutional amendment?
It is a formal change or addition to the Constitution, made by the Parliament under Article 368. - What is meant by Sovereign?
India is free to make its own laws and decisions without external interference. - What does Socialist mean in the Constitution?
It ensures social and economic equality, reducing the gap between rich and poor through welfare policies. - What is Secularism in India?
India has no official religion. Every citizen has the right to follow, practice, or change their religion freely. - What does Democratic mean?
People elect their government through free and fair elections. It ensures accountability and participation. - What is meant by Republic?
The head of the state is elected and not a hereditary monarch. India’s President is an elected leader. - Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee?
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman and played a key role in shaping the Constitution. - What is the significance of 26th January?
India became a Republic on this day in 1950, when the Constitution came into force. - What is the length of the Indian Constitution?
It is the longest written constitution in the world with 395 Articles and 12 Schedules at the time of adoption. - Why is our Constitution considered rigid and flexible?
It allows both simple and complex amendment processes, making it neither fully rigid nor fully flexible. - What is a federal structure?
A system where power is divided between a central government and state governments. India has a quasi-federal system. - What is the difference between a Constitution and a Law?
The Constitution is the supreme law; laws are specific rules made under its framework. Constitution guides all laws. - What role did the Constituent Assembly play?
It debated and framed the Constitution, ensuring representation from all regions, religions, and classes of India. - What is Universal Adult Franchise?
All Indian citizens above 18 years have the right to vote, regardless of caste, class, religion, or gender. - How does the Constitution protect minorities?
It guarantees cultural and educational rights under Articles 29 and 30 to preserve minority identities. - What is judicial review?
The power of courts to declare laws unconstitutional if they violate the Constitution. - Why is the Constitution called the supreme law of the land?
All laws and institutions derive authority from the Constitution. No law or action can violate it. - What is the role of the President in the Constitution?
As the constitutional head, the President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers and ensures law and order. - What is meant by separation of powers?
The three branches—Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary—function independently to maintain balance and prevent misuse of power. - Why was the Indian Constitution adopted in 1949 but enforced in 1950?
January 26 was chosen symbolically to honor the 1930 Purna Swaraj Day declared by the Indian National Congress. - What is the significance of the Constitution for a citizen?
It guarantees rights, duties, and freedoms. It protects citizens from arbitrary actions and provides equal treatment before the law.