Preamble of the Constitution of India:
The Preamble is an introductory statement in the Constitution of India that outlines the guiding values, principles, and purposes of the document. It reads:
"We, the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens:
Justice, social, economic and political;
Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship;
Equality of status and of opportunity;
And to promote among them all
Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation;
In our Constituent Assembly this 26th day of November 1949, do hereby adopt, enact and give to ourselves this Constitution."
Meaning:
The Preamble signifies the essence, objectives, and underlying philosophy of the Indian Constitution.
Importance:
1. Reflective of Source: It specifies the source of the Constitution - "We, the People of India," signifying that the power and authority of the Constitution derive from the people.
2. Guiding Light: In the case of ambiguity or dispute regarding any provision in the Constitution, the Preamble acts as a guiding light for interpretation.
3. Statement of Objectives: It encapsulates the aims and aspirations the Constitution seeks to achieve.
Objectives of the Preamble:
1. Sovereign: India is neither a dependency nor a dominion of any other nation and has the power to take decisions without any external interference.
2. Socialist: Added in 1976 by the 42nd Amendment, it signifies the aim of achieving an equitable distribution of wealth.
3. Secular: It implies that the State does not have its own religion and all religions will be treated equally.
4. Democratic: The power to govern will be vested in the hands of the people.
5. Republic: The head of the state, the President, is an elected official and not a hereditary position.
Values Enriched in the Preamble:
1. Justice: It emphasizes social, economic, and political justice. This means that the Constitution seeks to eliminate inequalities.
2. Liberty: It promises liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship to ensure the individual's personal freedoms.
3. Equality: This assures every citizen the equality of status and opportunity.
4. Fraternity: It aims at promoting brotherhood while respecting the dignity of the individual, thereby ensuring the unity and integrity of the nation.
The Preamble, in essence, provides a standard to evaluate any law and action of the government, ensuring it aligns with the fundamental philosophy and guiding principles set out at the inception of the Republic.
