/ Class 9 Polity Notes, NCERT Notes / By

Class 9 Polity Chapter 2: Constitutional Design Notes

A Constitution lays the foundation for a democratic system, defining the rights, responsibilities, and structure of the government. This chapter discusses the making of the Indian Constitution, the role of the Constituent Assembly, and key principles like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It also highlights how different countries create constitutions to ensure the smooth functioning of governance.



Introduction

  • Every country needs a set of rules to govern its people.
  • These rules are laid down in the Constitution.
  • The Indian Constitution is one of the most detailed and longest-written constitutions in the world.


Why Do We Need a Constitution?

A Constitution is a set of fundamental rules and principles that determine:


  • The political system (democracy, monarchy, dictatorship, etc.).
  • Rights and duties of citizens.
  • Structure of government (executive, legislature, judiciary).
  • How power is distributed and limited.

Role of the Constitution
  • Provides a framework for governance.
  • Prevents the misuse of power by leaders.
  • Protects minority rights.
  • Ensures justice, liberty, and equality.

Examples from the World
Country Reason for Constitution’s Importance
South Africa After apartheid, the new constitution ensured equal rights for all races.
USA The oldest written constitution, balancing power among different institutions.
Pakistan Frequent military rule due to a weak constitution.

Example: South Africa
  • Before 1994, South Africa followed Apartheid (racial discrimination), where white people had all the rights, and black people were treated as second-class citizens.
  • Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress (ANC) fought against this injustice.
  • After gaining independence, South Africa drafted a new Constitution (1996), ensuring equality for all races.


Making of the Indian Constitution


History Behind the Indian Constitution
  • India became independent on 15th August 1947.
  • British rule had left India divided based on caste, religion, and princely states.
  • A strong constitution was needed to unite the country and give rights to all.

The Constituent Assembly
  • Formed in December 1946.
  • Had 299 members from different parts of India.
  • Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.

Key Features of the Constituent Assembly
  • Representative – Members came from different backgrounds, religions, and communities.
  • Consensus-based – Decisions were made after discussion, not by voting.
  • Debates and Discussions – Every provision was debated before finalizing.
  • Borrowed Features – Inspired by other constitutions but adapted to India’s needs.

Timeline of the Constitution’s Creation
Date Event
9 Dec 1946 First meeting of the Constituent Assembly
26 Nov 1949 Constitution was adopted
26 Jan 1950 Constitution came into effect (Republic Day)


Key Features and Ideals of the Indian Constitution


Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic
  • Sovereign – India is independent and free to make its own decisions.
  • Socialist – Government works for economic equality.
  • Secular – No official religion; all religions are treated equally.
  • Democratic – People elect their leaders through free elections.
  • Republic – India has a President instead of a monarch.

Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity
  • Justice – No discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender.
  • Liberty – Freedom of speech, expression, and religion.
  • Equality – Equal rights for all citizens.
  • Fraternity – A sense of brotherhood among all Indians.

Fundamental Rights and Duties
  • Guarantees six Fundamental Rights to all citizens:
    • Right to Equality
    • Right to Freedom
    • Right against Exploitation
    • Right to Freedom of Religion
    • Cultural and Educational Rights
    • Right to Constitutional Remedies
  • Duties of Citizens:
    • Follow the Constitution.
    • Respect national symbols (flag, anthem).
    • Protect the environment.
    • Promote harmony among all citizens.


Guiding Values of the Constitution


Democracy
  • People have the power to elect their government.
  • Universal Adult Franchise (One person, one vote, one value).

Secularism
  • The state does not favor any religion.
  • People are free to practice any religion.

Separation of Powers
  • Legislature – Makes laws (Parliament).
  • Executive – Implements laws (Prime Minister & Government).
  • Judiciary – Ensures justice (Supreme Court).

Federalism
  • Division of powers between Central and State governments.
  • Example: Union List, State List, and Concurrent List.

Parliamentary System
  • Prime Minister leads the government.
  • Parliament is responsible for making laws.



Why is the Constitution Important?

  • Protects citizens’ rights.
  • Ensures democracy and the rule of law.
  • Balances power among different institutions.
  • Evolves over time to meet new challenges.


Conclusion

  • A Constitution is needed to establish rules and principles for governance.
  • South Africa’s example shows the importance of a strong constitution in ensuring equality.
  • The Indian Constitution was drafted by the Constituent Assembly (1946-1950).
  • The Preamble reflects India’s core values: Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.
  • It ensures democracy, secularism, and federalism.
  • The Parliamentary system and separation of powers maintain balance in governance.
Scroll to Top