72 years of being a Republic, now would be a good time to refresh ourselves on what makes the world’s greatest democracy a true Republic. It is the ‘Preamble to the Constitution of India’ which serves as the ‘Introduction to the Constitution of India.’ The content in the Preamble outlines the principles and purpose of the Constitution. It was inspired by ‘Objective Resolution that was drafted by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and it was adopted by the architects of the Constitution.
Here’s what it states :
The Preamble to the Constitution of India
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.
What is the Significance of the Preamble of the Constitution of India?
Each adjective mentioned in the preamble describes the ideologies of this Nation and its people and the functionality of the Government. To begin with, the term ‘Sovereignty’ describes how the Government operates without any external influence. ‘Socialist’ was included in the preamble to describe the Social and Economic equality that is practiced in our Nation. The term Secular brings to light the fact that there is no discrimination on any grounds in our Nation. The word ‘ Democratic’ implies that ours is a Government that is elected by the people and for the people. The word ‘Republic’ explains that the post of Presidency is based on people’s opinions. It is not passed on from one generation to the next.
Furthermore, Justice is what the Constitution strives to provide the people in the Nation. Liberty is the gift of freedom to the inhabitants of the Nation. The term ‘equality’ is included to attempt to give every individual an equal opportunity. Finally, the word Fraternity, highlights how harmony and brotherhood is integral for the progress of the Nation.
How has the Preamble impacted our lives?
The Preamble is not just a bunch of words that are strung together there is more to it. It is a reflection of the values that guided the freedom struggle. Every single article in the Constitution adheres to what’s been stated in the Preamble. It serves as a benchmark to cross-check every action that the Government takes.
Besides this, the Preamble emphasizes on the importance of humanity and tolerance for human beings to survive with dignity. Referring to it every once in a way works as a gentle reminder of how individuals can conduct their affairs.
Celebrate the Constitution and its existence this Republic Day
Republic Day is an opportune time to remind ourselves about the Preamble of the Indian Constitution. Celebrate this Republic Day with a Social dining affair by enjoying a meal in Nest at Howard Johnson Kolkata.
