Question

How did the ‘Objectives Resolution’ of the Constituent Assembly reflect the vision of India as an ‘Independent Sovereign Republic’? Explain.

Hint:

The "Objectives Resolution" was a foundational document that set the tone for India's Constitution, reflecting the vision of a sovereign, democratic, secular, and just republic. Its principles were later embodied in the Preamble and other parts of the Indian Constitution.

Answer 1

The "Objectives Resolution" was an important declaration moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly on December 13, 1946, and it set the guiding principles for the Constitution of India. This resolution not only reflected the vision of India as an independent sovereign republic but also laid the foundation for the democratic and republican values that India would embody. The key elements of the resolution that reflect the vision of India as an independent sovereign republic include:
1. Assertion of Sovereignty:
The resolution emphasized India's complete independence, both politically and legally. By stating that "India shall be a Union of States," the resolution affirmed India's sovereignty and the right to govern itself without any external interference. This marked a definitive break from colonial rule and established India as a free nation in control of its own destiny. 
2. Commitment to Democracy and Republic:
The Objectives Resolution declared that India would be a democratic republic, where the government would be of the people, by the people, and for the people. It promised a system of government that would ensure justice, equality, and freedom for all citizens, laying the groundwork for the constitutional democracy that would be established in India. 
3. Secular State:
The resolution also affirmed India's commitment to being a secular state, where all religions would be treated equally and where there would be no official state religion. This principle was crucial for ensuring the rights of all communities in a diverse and plural society, reflecting India's vision of unity in diversity. 
4. Protection of Fundamental Rights:
The resolution highlighted the need for the protection of the rights of the people. It advocated for the protection of individual rights, including equality before the law and freedom of expression. This laid the foundation for the Fundamental Rights section of the Constitution, ensuring that every citizen would have their rights safeguarded. 
5. Social Justice:
The resolution emphasized the goal of achieving social, economic, and political justice for all sections of society, particularly the marginalized and underprivileged. It aimed at eliminating discrimination and ensuring opportunities for social mobility, which reflected the vision of an egalitarian society in the new republic. 
6. Unity and Integrity of India:
The resolution also stressed the importance of preserving the unity and integrity of India. It highlighted the importance of consolidating the various princely states and territories into a unified republic, which was crucial in the post-independence period to avoid fragmentation and ensure national stability.