Introduction
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution serves as the opening statement or introductory note to the Constitution of India. It captures the essence, vision, and aspirations of the nation. Acting as the soul of the Constitution, it reflects India’s democratic values and the guiding principles on which the country is built. This article explains the meaning, background, elements, significance, and major judicial interpretations related to the Preamble.
Meaning of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution
A ‘Preamble’ is the introductory part of a Constitution. It summarizes the ideals, objectives, and philosophy upon which the Indian state is founded.
Renowned jurist N.A. Palkhivala described it as the “Identity Card of the Constitution”, while K.M. Munshi called it the “Political Horoscope of the Constitution.”
Historical Background
On 13 December 1946, Jawaharlal Nehru presented the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly. This resolution laid down the fundamental principles and goals that shaped the drafting of the Constitution.
The same resolution was later adopted as the Preamble on 22 January 1947.
Text of the Preamble
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, LIBERTY, EQUALITY, and FRATERNITY…
do hereby adopt, enact, and give to ourselves this Constitution.
Features of the Preamble
Acts as a concise summary of the Constitution’s ideals.
Declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
Secures Justice, Liberty, Equality, and promotes Fraternity.
Reflects the purpose and spirit of the Constitution.
Serves as a guiding light for governance and constitutional interpretation.
Components of the Preamble
Source of Authority – Authority flows from the people of India.
Nature of the State – India is a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
Objectives – Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Date of Adoption – 26 November 1949.
Key Words in the Preamble
“We, the People of India”
This phrase establishes that the Constitution is created by the people and for the people, reflecting collective will and democratic authority.
Sovereign
India is free from external control and manages its internal and external affairs independently.
Socialist
Reflects the aim of economic fairness, reduced inequalities, and coexistence of public and private sectors (democratic socialism).
Secular
All religions are treated equally; the State has no official religion and upholds religious freedom.
Democratic
India follows a parliamentary democracy with universal adult suffrage, rule of law, and accountable governance.
Republic
The head of state is elected, not hereditary. Public offices are open to all citizens.
Justice
Drawn from the ideals of the Russian Revolution:
Social justice – No discrimination based on caste, religion, color, gender, etc.
Economic justice – Reducing inequalities in income and wealth.
Political justice – Equal political rights and participation for all.
Liberty
Freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship, within constitutional limits.
Equality
Equal status and opportunities for every citizen—civic, political, and economic.
Fraternity
Promotes national unity, integrity, and dignity of every individual, overcoming social divisions.
Significance of the Preamble
Represents the foundational philosophy of the Constitution.
Acts as a guiding tool for interpreting constitutional provisions.
Sets moral direction for governance and policy-making.
Encourages unity in India’s diverse society.
Inspires citizens to uphold justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Major Issues & Supreme Court Judgments
Is the Preamble part of the Constitution?
Berubari Union Case (1960)
Supreme Court held that the Preamble is not part of the Constitution, but can be used to interpret ambiguity.
Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
Reversed the earlier view.
Held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and helps interpret constitutional provisions.
LIC of India Case (1995)
Reaffirmed that the Preamble is an integral part, though it is not enforceable in courts.
Can the Preamble be Amended?
Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
The Preamble can be amended under Article 368, as long as the Basic Structure is not altered.
Amendment to the Preamble
The Preamble has been amended only once, through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act (1976), based on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee.
Added Words:
Socialist
Secular
Integrity (changed “Unity of the Nation” to “Unity and Integrity of the Nation”)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Where do the ideals of Social, Economic, and Political Justice come from?
From the Russian Revolution of 1917.
Q2. Who called the Preamble the “Political Horoscope”?
K.M. Munshi.
Q3. What inspired the Preamble’s ideals?
Jawaharlal Nehru’s Objectives Resolution (1946).
Q4. What does the Preamble state?
It declares India a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic, aiming to secure Justice, Liberty, Equality and promote Fraternity.