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12 min read

Notes

The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Constitution that sets out the guiding principles and philosophy.

**Key Elements of the Preamble:**

1. **Source of Authority**: "We, the people of India" - Constitution derives authority from the people

2. **Nature of State**:

  • Sovereign: Supreme power lies with the people
  • Socialist: Added in 1976, means state ownership of means of production
  • Secular: Added in 1976, means no state religion
  • Democratic: Government by the people
  • Republic: Elected head of state

    • 3. **Objectives of the Constitution**:

  • Justice: Social, economic, and political
  • Liberty: Of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship
  • Equality: Of status and opportunity
  • Fraternity: Assuring dignity of individual and unity of nation

    • **Important Cases:**

  • Berubari Union Case (1960): Preamble is not part of Constitution
  • Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973): Preamble is part of Constitution
  • LIC of India Case (1995): Reaffirmed Kesavananda

    • Key Concepts

    Introduction to the Constitution

    Based on Objectives Resolution by Nehru

    Amended only once (42nd Amendment, 1976)

    Added: Socialist, Secular, Integrity

    Part of the Constitution (Kesavananda Bharati case)

    Important Facts

    • •[1976] 42nd Amendment added Socialist, Secular, and IntegrityOnly amendment to the Preamble
    • •[1946] Preamble based on Objectives ResolutionMoved by Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13
    • •[1973] Kesavananda Bharati case made Preamble part of ConstitutionSupreme Court judgment

    Mnemonics & Memory Tricks

    Nature of Indian State

    SSSDR - Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic

    Objectives in Preamble

    JLEF - Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity