The Constitution of India, adopted on 26th November 1949 and enforced on 26th January 1950, is the supreme legal framework governing the world's largest democracy. Drafted by the Constituent Assembly chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it replaced the colonial Government of India Act (1935). The Constitution:
Establishes India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic
Defines the structure, powers, and duties of government institutions (Parliament, Judiciary, Executive)
Guarantees fundamental rights (Articles 12-35) and directive principles (Articles 36-51)
Balances federalism with a strong central government
Inspired by global constitutions, it uniquely blends rigidity (amendments require parliamentary supermajority) with flexibility (judicial interpretation).
Bare Act Key Provisions (Excerpts)
1. Preamble
"We, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA... secure to all citizens:
JUSTICE (social, economic, political)
LIBERTY (thought, expression, belief)
EQUALITY (status, opportunity)
FRATERNITY (dignity, unity)"
2. Fundamental Rights (Part III)
Article 14: Equality before law
Article 19: Freedom of speech, assembly
Article 21: Right to life & personal liberty
3. Directive Principles (Part IV)
Article 44: Uniform Civil Code
Article 48A: Environmental protection
4. Federal Structure (Articles 245-263)
Article 246: Division of powers (Union/State Lists)
Article 356: President’s Rule
5. Amendments (Article 368)
Procedure to amend the Constitution
Impact & Legacy
The Constitution:
✓ Serves as a living document with 105+ amendments
✓ Upholds judicial review (Basic Structure Doctrine)
✓ Ensures checks and balances among government branches