Preamble JYOTI Assistant Professor Department of Political Science PGGC-11 Chandigarh

Preamble to the Indian Constitution The preamble of the Indian Constitution as amended in the 42nd Constitutional Amended, 1976 is as follows: “We the people of India, having solemnly resoled to constitute India into a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, democratic Republic and to secure all its citizens. Justice, social, economic and political; Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship. Equality of status and opportunity, and to promote among them all, Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the nation. In our Constitution Assembly, this day 26th day of November, 1949 do hereby, adopt, enact and give to ourselves this Constitution.”

Main Features of the Preamble: Source of the Constitution Nature of the State Objectives of the Constitution Date of the adoption of the Constitution Criticism of the Preamble: Preamble is not a substantive part of the constitution Preamble is not enforceable by courts

Wrong use of words ‘We, The People’s of India…’ Language of Preamble is Vague Importance of the Preamble: It is a key to the Constitution Preamble declares the nature of the Indian State Preamble is a symbol of ideals and aspirations of the constitution Preamble is a yardstick to evaluate the Constitution Guidelines for Courts