The Preamble is the introduction to the Indian Constitution. It states the ideals and objectives that the Constitution seeks to achieve. The Preamble is a very important and high-scoring topic in the polity section of every exam.
Source and Background
The Preamble is based on the Objectives Resolution drafted and moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1946. It is often called the soul of the Constitution and the identity card of the Constitution.
Text and Key Words
The Preamble declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. It promises to secure for all citizens:
- Justice: social, economic and political.
- Liberty: of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship.
- Equality: of status and opportunity.
- Fraternity: assuring dignity and unity of the nation.
The 42nd Amendment
The 42nd Amendment of 1976 added three new words to the Preamble: Socialist, Secular and Integrity. This is one of the most asked facts about the Preamble in exams.
Is the Preamble Part of the Constitution?
In the Berubari Union case (1960), the Supreme Court said the Preamble was not a part of the Constitution. Later, in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), the Court held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and can be amended without destroying its basic structure.
Quick Revision Points
- The Preamble is based on the Objectives Resolution by Nehru.
- India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
- It provides Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.
- The 42nd Amendment (1976) added Socialist, Secular and Integrity.
- Called the soul of the Constitution.
- Kesavananda Bharati case held it is part of the Constitution.
- The Preamble can be amended within limits.