What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution: The Story Behind It

India’s journey to independence was marked by a relentless struggle and the collective efforts of innumerable individuals who dreamed of an independent and sovereign nation. After gaining independence from British colonial rule on August 15, 1947, the leaders of the newly independent India faced the gigantic task of charting the course of an independent and sovereign nation. Constitution which would reflect the aspirations and values ​​of its diverse population. The main purpose of this work was to create the Preamble, which is a short introductory statement that sets out the guiding principles and philosophy of the Constitution.
Recently, the Preamble has been at the centre of controversy due to its omission from the new Constitution. NCERT Textbooks For Classes 3 and 6. The decision has led to widespread debate and concern about the importance of the Preamble in educating young minds about the core values ​​of the Constitution. Indian Constitution,

beginning

Recognizing the need for a comprehensive and inclusive Constitution, constituent Assembly An assembly was formed comprising representatives from different regions, communities and political backgrounds. This assembly was entrusted with the task of drafting a document that would lay the foundation for the governance of the country. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected the President of the assembly and Dr. B.R.Ambedkar He was appointed Chairman of the Drafting Committee.

The first step in this process was the adoption of the Objectives Resolution, which was proposed by. Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946. This resolution outlined the fundamental principles that would guide the drafting of the Constitution, emphasizing the sovereignty of the people, the establishment of a democratic republic, and the guarantee of fundamental rights to all citizens. The drafting of the Constitution was influenced by a variety of sources, including preambles from other constitutions such as those of the United States and Ireland.
Amid extensive debates and discussions, the Constituent Assembly worked tirelessly to draft a Constitution that would embody the vision and values ​​of the new nation. A key component of this document was the Preamble, which underwent several amendments before its final adoption. Significant debates centered around the inclusion of the words “socialist” and “secular” to reflect a commitment to social and economic justice and the separation of religion from state affairs.

Adoption

Finally, on 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Preamble, declaring India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic. Its aim is to secure justice, liberty, equality and fraternity to all its citizens. The Preamble reads: “We, the people of India, solemnly resolve to constitute India into a sovereign, socialist, secular and democratic republic. sovereign socialist secular democratic republic and to secure to all its citizens social, economic and political justice, freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship, equality of dignity and opportunity; and to promote fraternity amongst them all, ensuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation.”
The Preamble serves as the guiding light for the interpretation of the Constitution and its provisions. It encapsulates the vision and aspirations of the makers of the Constitution and reflects the basic values ​​that the Indian State seeks to uphold. The words “We, the People of India” emphasise the democratic principle that the Constitution derives its authority from the people.
The adoption of the Preamble proved to be an important milestone in the constitutional history of India. It was a moment of great pride and hope for the nation, as it symbolised the collective will of the people to build a just and inclusive society. The Preamble continues to be a source of inspiration and guidance for the Indian judiciary, policymakers and citizens.
The preamble has also been the subject of judicial interpretation and scrutiny. Keshavananda Bharati case In its 1973 judgment, the Supreme Court of India held that the Preamble is an integral part of the Constitution and its basic structure cannot be changed by any amendment. This doctrine of basic structure has since become the cornerstone of Indian constitutional law, ensuring that the fundamental principles contained in the Preamble remain immutable.
The story of the Preamble highlights the vision and dedication of the makers of the Indian Constitution. It reflects their commitment to building a nation based on the principles of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity. The Preamble remains a strength for the Indian state and its citizens, reminding them of the basic principles and values ​​of the Constitution.