About Preamble of the Indian Constitution

Preamble gives the idea about the following:

• The source of the Constitution;
• Nature of Indian State;
• A statement of its objectives; and
• The date of its adoption

Thus, on analyzing the key aspects of the Preamble, it can be divided into three parts by reference to it qualitative characteristics. The Preamble is DECLARATORY, as to the enactment of the Preamble to the Constitution, i.e., the people of India in their Constituent Assembly adopted, enacted and gave to themselves this Constitution.

REVOLUTIONARY, in the sense of the legislative intent of the preamble, i.e., whereby the people of India solemnly resolved to constitute India into a SOVEREIGN SOCIALIST SECULAR DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC and to secure to all its citizens.

INFORMATIVE, as to the source of the Preamble to the Constitution, i.e, “WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA”.

Question Arises

PREAMBLE is an important part of INDIAN CONSTITUTION or NOT?

In the BERUBARI CASE of 1960

In the KESAVANANDA BHARATI CASE of 1973  

It observed that the Preamble is of extreme importance and the Constitution should be read and interpreted in the light of the grand and noble vision expressed in the PREAMBLE.

In the LIC OF INDIA Vs CONSUMER EDUCATION & RESEARCH CENTRE of 1995 also the SC again held that the preamble is an integral part of the CONSTITUTION.

In the light of kesavananda Bharati Case as well as other judgments, there are some key points about the constitution which must be remembered as far as the importance of the knowledge of PREAMBLE for every country people & for examinations’ point of view is concerned.

These key things are as follows: –

• Preamble is an integral Part of the Constitution.
• It Indicates basic structure of the Constitution (SR Bommai Case).
• It can be amended by Parliament using its amendment powers as per article 368. 
• We note here that preamble has been amended only once so far through the 42nd Constitution Amendment Act 1976. 
• The words Secular, Socialist and Integrity were added to the constitution.
• It enshrines the ideas and philosophy of the constitution, and NOT the narrow objectives of the governments.
• It also does NOT provide any legal framework of constitutional law.

• It neither provides any power nor imposes any duty.
• Its importance is in role to be played in interpretation of statues, also in the interpretation of provisions of the Constitution.
• Constitution should be read and interpreted in the light of grand and novel vision expressed in the preamble.
• It is neither enforceable not justifiable in a court of law. This implies that courts cannot pass orders against the government in India to implement the ideas in the Preamble.
• As we know now that the PREAMBLE is neither a source of power to legislature nor a prohibition upon the powers of legislature.

Essence of the Preamble: We, the People of India

The Preamble begins with the iconic phrase, “We, the People of India.” It reflects the foundational principle that the power and authority of the Indian Constitution emanate from the citizens. It emphasizes the democratic nature of the Indian state and the collective responsibility of the people to build a just, inclusive, and harmonious society.

Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic

The Preamble declares India as a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic, and republican nation. Each of these terms carries significant weight in shaping the character of Indian democracy:

• Sovereign: India is an independent nation, free from external control or interference.
• Socialist: India’s commitment to social and economic justice, striving towards a society that ensures equitable opportunities and welfare for all.
• Secular: India upholds the principle of religious freedom, maintaining equal respect for all religions while remaining neutral in matters of faith.
• Democratic: India’s governance is based on the principles of democracy, where power is vested in the people and exercised through elected representatives.
• Republic: India adopts a republican form of government, with a President as the head of state.

Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity

The Preamble emphasizes the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as the guiding principles of Indian society. These principles are integral to ensuring a just and inclusive society:

• Justice: The Preamble envisions social, economic, and political justice, aiming to eliminate disparities and ensure fairness for all citizens.
• Liberty: The Preamble upholds individual liberty, granting citizens the freedom to express themselves, pursue their aspirations, and live with dignity.
• Equality: India is committed to equality, striving to eliminate discrimination based on caste, gender, religion, or any other grounds.
• Fraternity: The Preamble emphasizes the importance of unity and brotherhood among the people of India, fostering a spirit of solidarity and mutual respect.

Resolving to Secure Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity

The Preamble declares the resolve of the Indian people to secure justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It reflects the collective determination to create a society that upholds the ideals enshrined in the Constitution, safeguarding the rights and dignity of every citizen.

ALSO READ: STATE UNDER ARTICLE 12 OF THE CONSTITUTION