which are the important features of indian constitution
What are the important features of the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
The Indian Constitution is known for its comprehensive and unique features that have shaped India’s democratic framework. Here are some of the important features of the Indian Constitution:
-
Lengthy and Detailed: The Indian Constitution is one of the longest written constitutions in the world. It consists of a Preamble and 470 articles, divided into 25 parts, along with 12 schedules and 5 appendices. It covers a wide range of aspects concerning the governance of the country.
-
Federal System with Unitary Features: The Indian Constitution incorporates both federal and unitary features. While the central government holds significant power, the Constitution establishes a division of powers between the central government and the states, creating a federal system.
-
Partly Rigid and Partly Flexible: The Indian Constitution has a unique amending procedure. Some provisions can be amended by a special majority of the Parliament, while others require approval from the Parliament and at least half of the states. This makes the Constitution partly rigid and partly flexible, ensuring stability while allowing for necessary changes.
-
Fundamental Rights: The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to every citizen, including the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, the right to life and personal liberty, and protection against discrimination. These rights are enforceable by the judiciary.
-
Directive Principles of State Policy: The Constitution contains Directive Principles of State Policy, which provide guidance to the government in creating social and economic conditions favorable for the welfare of the citizens. While they are not enforceable by the courts, they serve as guiding principles for governance.
-
Independent Judiciary: The Indian Constitution establishes an independent judiciary as one of its key features. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in the country, with the power to interpret the Constitution and protect the fundamental rights of citizens.
-
Separation of Powers: The Constitution separates powers among the three branches of government: the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary, ensuring a system of checks and balances.
-
Single Citizenship: Unlike some federal countries, India follows the concept of single citizenship, where all citizens are governed by a unified set of laws. This emphasizes national unity and equality among citizens.
-
Universal Adult Suffrage: The Constitution grants the right to vote to all Indian citizens over the age of 18, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, or social standing. This ensures equal political participation for all citizens.
-
Secular State: The Indian Constitution declares India as a secular state, ensuring that the state does not promote any particular religion and guarantees freedom of religion to all its citizens.
These are just a few of the important features of the Indian Constitution. It is a dynamic framework that has evolved and adapted over the years to cater to the changing needs of the nation.