Question

Describe the main features of the Constitution of India.

Hint:

For a question on the features of the Indian Constitution, try to mention a mix of structural features (e.g., Parliamentary System, Federalism), philosophical features (e.g., Secularism, Fundamental Rights), and unique characteristics (e.g., Lengthiest Constitution, Blend of Rigidity & Flexibility).

Answer 1

The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the land that defines the framework, structure, and functioning of the government in India. It was adopted on 26th January 1950 and lays down the principles that govern the country. The main features of the Constitution of India are as follows:

• Written Constitution: The Constitution of India is a written and lengthy document that comprehensively lays down the structure of the government, the rights of citizens, and the duties of the state. It is the longest written constitution in the world.
• Federal Structure with Unitary Bias: India has a federal system of government, meaning power is divided between the Central Government and the State Governments. However, the Constitution provides for a unitary bias in times of national emergencies, giving the central government more powers during crises.
• Parliamentary System of Government: The Constitution establishes a parliamentary system of government, where the Prime Minister is the head of government and the President is the ceremonial head of state. The executive is accountable to the legislature (Parliament), ensuring a system of checks and balances.
• Fundamental Rights: The Constitution guarantees Fundamental Rights to all citizens under Part III, ensuring equality, liberty, and freedom of speech, among other rights. These rights are justiciable, meaning citizens can approach the judiciary if their rights are violated.
• Directive Principles of State Policy: The Constitution contains Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV), which are guidelines for the government to follow in making laws and policies. While these principles are not justiciable (i.e., they are not enforceable in courts), they serve as a guide to creating a welfare state.
• Secular State: India is a secular state, meaning there is no official state religion, and the government does not favor any religion. The Constitution ensures freedom of religion and provides protection against discrimination on religious grounds.
• Independent Judiciary: The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary, which is free from executive influence. The Supreme Court of India is the highest judicial authority and has the power of judicial review, allowing it to strike down laws that violate the Constitution.
• Universal Adult Franchise: The Constitution guarantees universal adult suffrage, meaning all Indian citizens aged 18 and above, regardless of gender, religion, or caste, have the right to vote. This ensures political equality among the citizens of India.
• Single Citizenship: India provides single citizenship, meaning there is no separate state-level citizenship. All citizens of India are governed by the same laws, irrespective of the state they live in.
• Amendment Procedure: The Constitution of India can be amended, but the process requires a special procedure for certain provisions. While some parts can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, others require a special majority and ratification by state legislatures.

Conclusion:

The Constitution of India is a comprehensive and detailed document that establishes the legal and political framework for the functioning of the Indian state. It ensures justice, equality, and liberty for its citizens, while also balancing the powers between the different branches of government. Its provisions reflect the democratic ideals of India and provide a strong foundation for the governance of the country.