Write down the Preamble of the Indian Constitution after the 42nd Constitutional Amendment.

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Points to Remember:

  • The 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, significantly altered the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
  • The changes reflected the socialist and secular ideals of the then-ruling government.
  • Understanding the changes highlights the evolution of India’s constitutional philosophy.

Introduction:

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a concise statement outlining the fundamental values and objectives of the Indian state. Originally adopted on 26th November 1949, it underwent a significant revision with the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. This amendment, enacted during the Emergency, incorporated several changes reflecting the government’s socialist and secular ideology. Analyzing the post-amendment Preamble helps us understand the shifts in India’s constitutional ethos.

Body:

The Preamble after the 42nd Amendment:

The Preamble after the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, reads as follows:

“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 twenty-sixth day of November, 1949, do HEREBY ADOPT, ENACT AND GIVE TO OURSELVES THIS CONSTITUTION.”

Analysis of Changes:

The key changes introduced by the 42nd Amendment were the addition of the words “Socialist,” “Secular,” and the replacement of “Republic” with “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic.”

  • Socialist: This addition reflected the government’s commitment to a socialist pattern of society, emphasizing social justice and equitable distribution of resources.
  • Secular: The inclusion of “Secular” explicitly affirmed India’s commitment to religious neutrality and tolerance of all faiths. While the spirit of secularism was arguably present before, its explicit inclusion strengthened its constitutional position.
  • Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic: The change from simply “Republic” to this longer phrase comprehensively encapsulated the nation’s ideals.

Impact of the Amendment:

The 42nd Amendment’s impact on the Preamble was significant, reflecting a shift in the political and ideological landscape of India. It solidified the commitment to social justice, secularism, and democratic principles. However, the amendment was also criticized for being enacted during a period of curtailed democratic freedoms.

Conclusion:

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution, as amended in 1976, serves as a powerful statement of India’s national identity and aspirations. The addition of “Socialist” and “Secular” clarified and strengthened the constitutional commitment to social justice and religious tolerance. While the amendment’s timing during the Emergency remains a subject of debate, the changes to the Preamble have become integral to India’s constitutional framework. Moving forward, upholding the values enshrined in the Preamble – justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity – remains crucial for ensuring a just, equitable, and inclusive society that respects the dignity of all its citizens. This requires continuous efforts towards strengthening democratic institutions, promoting social harmony, and ensuring equal opportunities for all. The Preamble serves as a constant reminder of the ideals that guide India’s journey towards a more perfect union.

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