Introduction – The Need for a New Constitution

• India gained independence on August 15, 1947, and needed a Constitution to govern the newly formed nation.
• The British Government’s Government of India Act (1935) was used as a temporary framework, but a new, independent document was needed.
• The Constitution aimed to unite a diverse population under democratic principles.

The Constituent Assembly – Formation and Composition

• The Constituent Assembly was established in December 1946 to draft India’s Constitution.
• It included representatives from different regions, communities, and political backgrounds.

Composition of the Constituent Assembly

• Total Members: Originally 389 (reduced to 299 after Partition).
• Elected by: Provincial legislatures (indirect elections).
• Representation: Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Dalits, tribals, and other communities.
• Leadership: Dr. Rajendra Prasad (President), B.R. Ambedkar (Chairman of the Drafting Committee).

Key Personalities and Their Roles

The Objectives Resolution and Vision for India

• The Objectives Resolution (proposed by Nehru in 1946) outlined the ideals of the Constitution.
• It emphasized sovereignty, democracy, equality, and social justice.

Key Features of the Objectives Resolution

• India would be a sovereign, independent republic.
• All citizens would have equality, freedom, and justice.
• Minorities, backward classes, and religious groups would be protected.
• India would strive for world peace and international cooperation.

Key Debates in the Constituent Assembly

The framing of the Constitution involved intense debates on critical issues.

Democracy and Universal Adult Franchise

• Earlier, voting was limited based on property and education.
• The Assembly decided on universal adult franchise (one person, one vote).

Federalism vs. Centralization

• Some leaders wanted a strong central government (Nehru, Patel).
• Others favored strong state governments (Rajagopalachari, Kripalani).
• Compromise: India adopted a federal structure with a strong center.

Rights of Minorities and Dalits

• Ambedkar pushed for reservations for Dalits in education and jobs.
• There were debates over separate electorates for minorities (eventually rejected).

Secularism and Religious Freedom

• The Assembly decided on secularism – no official state religion.
• Citizens were granted the right to follow any religion.

The Drafting of the Constitution – Role of the Drafting Committee

• The Drafting Committee, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, worked on writing the Constitution.
• It studied various global constitutions (USA, UK, USSR) to adapt the best ideas for India.

Process of Drafting

• First Draft: February 1948.
• Second Draft: October 1948 (after debates and amendments).
• Final Draft Approved: November 26, 1949.

Global Influences on the Indian Constitution

Salient Features of the Indian Constitution

The Indian Constitution is the world’s longest written Constitution, with 395 Articles (now 470+ after amendments).

Key Features

• Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
• Universal Adult Franchise (Right to Vote for all above 18 years).
• Fundamental Rights (Equality, Freedom, Protection of Minorities).
• Directive Principles (Welfare of the People).
• Parliamentary System (Executive accountable to Legislature).

Republic Day and the Adoption of the Constitution (January 26, 1950)

• The Constitution was formally adopted on January 26, 1950 (Republic Day).
• Dr. Rajendra Prasad became India’s first President.
• The Government of India Act (1935) was replaced by the new Constitution.

The Constitution’s Legacy and Its Relevance Today

• The Indian Constitution continues to evolve through amendments and interpretations.
• It remains the guiding document for governance, democracy, and social justice.

Important Amendments Over Time

• First Amendment (1951): Added restrictions on Fundamental Rights.
• 42nd Amendment (1976): Added the words ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ to the Preamble.
• 73rd & 74th Amendments (1992): Strengthened local governance (Panchayati Raj).

Conclusion