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Summary
The chapter “Making of the Constitution” discusses the creation and significance of the Indian Constitution. It begins by defining a constitution as a set of fundamental principles or rules that govern a state. It explains that a constitution is essential for curbing government power, ensuring the rights and obligations of citizens, and maintaining order in the state. A constitution provides a framework for the government, outlining the structure and function of its organs, and the relationship between the state and its citizens.
The authority of a constitution depends on several factors, including its substantive provisions, the mode of promulgation, and a balanced institutional design. The Indian Constitution, framed after independence, represents the political, economic, and social ideals of the Indian people. It was created through a democratic process, involving extensive debates and discussions in the Constituent Assembly. The constitution aims to preserve the freedom and equality of all citizens, establishing a democracy based on justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
The chapter highlights the various sources from which the Indian Constitution borrowed its provisions. These include the Government of India Acts passed by the British Parliament, the British parliamentary system, and the constitutions of other countries like the US, USSR, and Canada. The Constituent Assembly also relied on debates, commentaries of critics, judicial decisions, and constitutional amendments to develop the constitution.
The Indian Constitution has several salient features. It is a blend of rigidity and flexibility, allowing it to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining stability. It establishes a quasi-federal system, with a strong central government and states that derive their powers from the constitution. It is secular, with no state religion, and provides for single citizenship, common all-India services, and uniformity of laws. The constitution includes a Preamble that outlines its aims and objectives, and provisions for the protection of fundamental rights, directive principles of state policy, and emergency powers.
The drafting process involved the election of the Constituent Assembly in 1946, which was tasked with framing the constitution. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as its president, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee. The assembly appointed thirteen committees to prepare reports, which were used to draft the constitution. The Drafting Committee prepared the first draft, which was then circulated for comments and revised accordingly.
The Indian Constitution was finally adopted on November 26, 1949, and came into force on January 26, 1950. It is the longest and most detailed constitution in the world, with 395 articles grouped into 22 parts and 12 schedules. It has been amended several times to address the evolving needs of the country.
Essay Type
1. Explain the various sources of the Indian Constitution.
Answer: The various sources of the Indian Constitution are as follows:
- Government of India Acts: The British Parliament passed several Acts for India. The makers of the Constitution of India borrowed some materials from these Acts. In this connection, the Act of 1935 is very important. The Indian Constitution adopted many provisions of this Act after modifying them to suit the needs of the changing times.
- British Parliamentary System: The leaders of India adopted many British constitutional practices in our Constitution. They were very familiar with the working of the British parliamentary practices. India adopted the Parliamentary system from Great Britain. The Cabinet form of Government has been mainly borrowed from England.
- Impact of other Constitutions: The intention of the Constituent Assembly was not to enact an original Constitution. It wanted to give us a Constitution that possessed the best features of all the democratic Constitutions. So, the framers of the Indian Constitution were influenced by the Constitutions of the U.K., U.S.S.R., Canada, Ireland, etc.
- Constituent Assembly Debates: Debates in the Constituent Assembly were also very important. It was a very useful source. The Constitution is the result of thorough discussions and debates.
- Commentaries of Critics: Various Commentaries have also influenced the drafting and development of the Constitution. The Commentaries also help us in understanding the minutest details of the Constitution.
- Judicial Review: The decisions of the Supreme Court have provided flesh and blood to the Constitution. Judicial decisions become precedents, and they are accepted by the Constitution.
- Constitutional Amendments: The Constitutional Amendments are also important sources of the Constitution. Till now, our Constitution has been amended several times. Sometimes, Ordinances also become sources of a Constitution when they are accepted by the Parliament and interpreted by the Supreme Court.
2. Explain the main features of the Constitution of India.
Answer: The main features of the Constitution of India are as follows:
- An enacted Constitution: The Constitution of India was not the result of gradual evolution but was enacted by a Constituent Assembly specifically formed for this purpose. It took nearly three years to draft, with each provision thoroughly debated and approved by the Assembly. The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, signed by the President of the Constituent Assembly, and declared passed. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of India in the final session of the Assembly, which began on January 24, 1950. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, after members signed it on January 25, 1950.
- The Lengthiest Written Constitution: India’s Constitution, the longest and most detailed in the world, was written as a document. It includes numerous clauses, sub-clauses, and explanations to ensure clarity. The Constitution addresses both the Union and the states of India. Its length is due to special provisions for various social segments, detailed lists of Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, and a comprehensive distribution of powers. Additional subjects like public services, official language, and elections are also covered. Originally containing 395 articles in 22 parts and 12 schedules, it now has 448 articles in 25 parts, 12 schedules, and 104 amendments as of January 25, 2020. The Constitution consists of about 90,000 words.
- Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic: The Preamble to the Constitution of India declares the country to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. This indicates India’s independence and lack of foreign control. The goal is to achieve socialism through democratic means. The Constitution establishes a democratic government with universal adult suffrage and regular free and fair elections. It is based on democratic principles aimed at strengthening democracy in India, which is supported by a network of democratic institutions. India is a republic, meaning its head of state is elected for a fixed term rather than being hereditary. D. D. Basu describes a republican government as one by representatives chosen by the people.
- A Mixture of Flexibility and Rigidity: The Constitution of India is both rigid and flexible, balancing these traits to suit its federal nature and adaptability. It is rigid to preserve its federal character and avoid becoming overly susceptible to the ruling party’s influence, yet flexible enough to adjust to changing circumstances. This balance in amendment procedures is a key factor in the Constitution’s success. Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, others by a special majority, and certain federal provisions require the approval of both Parliament and State legislatures. Thus, the Constitution is partly rigid and partly flexible.
- Federation: The word ‘federation’ is not used in the Indian Constitution, which instead refers to India as a ‘Union of States’ in Article I. While the Constitution has federal characteristics, including a division of powers between the Centre and the States and a Supreme Court to safeguard it, India is not a true federation. It is a flexible federation, capable of becoming a unitary system during emergencies. The Central Government holds more power than the State Governments, which can sometimes be dependent on the Centre. The framers preferred the term ‘Union’ over ‘federation,’ as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar explained, because the Union is indestructible.
- Secularism: Secularism is a key feature of the Indian Constitution, with no state religion. The term ‘Secular’ was added to the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment, though India has been secular since the Constitution’s inception. This addition clarifies the secular nature of the Constitution. Indians have the liberty of faith, belief, and worship, with no discrimination based on religion, caste, or community. All religions and religious groups are equal before the state. Donald Eugene Smith stated that India is a secular state in the same way it is a democracy.
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3. Mention five main features of the Constitution of India.
Answer: The five main features of the Constitution of India are:
- An enacted Constitution: The Constitution of India was not the result of gradual evolution but was enacted by a Constituent Assembly specifically formed for this purpose. It took nearly three years to draft, with each provision thoroughly debated and approved by the Assembly. The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, signed by the President of the Constituent Assembly, and declared passed. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected as the first President of India in the final session of the Assembly, which began on January 24, 1950. The Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950, after members signed it on January 25, 1950.
- The Lengthiest Written Constitution: India’s Constitution, the longest and most detailed in the world, was written as a document. It includes numerous clauses, sub-clauses, and explanations to ensure clarity. The Constitution addresses both the Union and the states of India. Its length is due to special provisions for various social segments, detailed lists of Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, and a comprehensive distribution of powers. Additional subjects like public services, official language, and elections are also covered. Originally containing 395 articles in 22 parts and 12 schedules, it now has 448 articles in 25 parts, 12 schedules, and 104 amendments as of January 25, 2020. The Constitution consists of about 90,000 words.
- Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic: The Preamble to the Constitution of India declares the country to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. This indicates India’s independence and lack of foreign control. The goal is to achieve socialism through democratic means. The Constitution establishes a democratic government with universal adult suffrage and regular free and fair elections. It is based on democratic principles aimed at strengthening democracy in India, which is supported by a network of democratic institutions. India is a republic, meaning its head of state is elected for a fixed term rather than being hereditary. D. D. Basu describes a republican government as one by representatives chosen by the people.
- A Mixture of Flexibility and Rigidity: The Constitution of India is both rigid and flexible, balancing these traits to suit its federal nature and adaptability. It is rigid to preserve its federal character and avoid becoming overly susceptible to the ruling party’s influence, yet flexible enough to adjust to changing circumstances. This balance in amendment procedures is a key factor in the Constitution’s success. Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, others by a special majority, and certain federal provisions require the approval of both Parliament and State legislatures. Thus, the Constitution is partly rigid and partly flexible.
- Federation: The word ‘federation’ is not used in the Indian Constitution, which instead refers to India as a ‘Union of States’ in Article I. While the Constitution has federal characteristics, including a division of powers between the Centre and the States and a Supreme Court to safeguard it, India is not a true federation. It is a flexible federation, capable of becoming a unitary system during emergencies. The Central Government holds more power than the State Governments, which can sometimes be dependent on the Centre. The framers preferred the term ‘Union’ over ‘federation,’ as Dr. B. R. Ambedkar explained, because the Union is indestructible.
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4. How far is it true that the Constitution of India is a borrowed document?
Answer: The Constitution of India is often said to be a borrowed document because the makers of the Constitution have ransacked all the known Constitutions of the world. Most of the provisions of the Constitution are borrowed from others. It is said to be a beautiful patchwork. However, it would be wrong to say that it is a borrowed Constitution. The Constitution simply accepted good features from other Constitutions and sources. The following are some of the borrowings from other Constitutions:
- British Constitution: First past the post, Parliamentary form of Government, the idea of the rule of law, Institution of the speaker and his role, Law making procedure.
- Irish Constitution: Directive principles of state policy.
- French Constitution: Principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
- United States Constitution: Character of Fundamental Rights, Power of Judicial Review, and independence of the judiciary.
- Canadian Constitution: A quasi-federal form of government (a federal system with a strong central government), the idea of Residual power.
Thus, the Constitution of India, as we find it today, has come from various sources. But it is not just a borrowed document. It has accepted the good features from other Constitutions and sources and has made them suitable for the Indian context.
5. How far is the Constitution of India democratic? Give reasons.
Answer: The Constitution of India is highly democratic. The following points provide reasons for its democratic nature:
- Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic: The Preamble to the Constitution declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. This implies that India is an independent country and aims to establish socialism by democratic means.
- Democratic Form of Government: The Constitution establishes a democratic form of government. It provides for Universal Adult Suffrage and free and fair periodic elections. The Constitution itself is based on democratic principles, and its chief objective is to make the foundation of democracy strong in Indian soil.
- Republic: India is a republic because the head of the state in India is elected for a fixed term and is not a hereditary head. D. D. Basu says: “By the republican form of government is understood a government by representatives chosen by the people.”
- Parliamentary Government: The Constitution provides for a parliamentary form of government in the Centre as well as in the States. India has accepted the British model of parliamentary government, where the real executive is the Council of Ministers with the Prime Minister at the head. The executive is accountable to the legislature, which is a hallmark of democratic governance.
- Independent Judiciary: The independence of the judiciary ensures that the rights and liberties of the people are protected without interference from the executive or legislature. This is essential for the success of democracy.
- Universal Adult Suffrage: The introduction of universal adult suffrage in India grants political equality to the people. One vote for one individual is granted without any artificial barrier. Every adult in India has a share in the political system of the country.
These points highlight the democratic nature of the Constitution of India.
6. Explain how the Constitution is a means of democratic transformation.
Answer: The Constitution is a means of democratic transformation in several ways:
- Democratic Principles: The Constitution of India is based on democratic principles. It establishes a democratic form of government and aims to make the foundation of democracy strong in Indian soil.
- Universal Adult Suffrage: The introduction of universal adult suffrage grants political equality to the people. Every adult in India has a share in the political system of the country, which is a significant step towards democratic transformation.
- Protection of Rights: The Constitution recognizes and protects the fundamental rights of the people. These rights are essential for the functioning of a democratic society.
- Democratic Institutions: The Constitution provides for a network of democratic institutions that cover the whole of India. These institutions ensure the participation of the people in the governance of the country.
- Secularism: The Constitution declares India to be a secular state, ensuring liberty of faith, belief, and worship for all citizens. This promotes social harmony and democratic values.
- Independent Judiciary: The independence of the judiciary ensures the protection of the rights and liberties of the people, which is crucial for the success of democracy.
- Provision for Free and Fair Elections: The Constitution provides for free and fair periodic elections, which are the cornerstone of a democratic system.
These features of the Constitution facilitate democratic transformation by promoting democratic principles, protecting rights, and ensuring the participation of the people in governance.
7. “The Constitution of India is a mixture of rigidity and flexibility.” -Discuss.
Answer: The Constitution of India is a blend of rigidity and flexibility. It had to be rigid because of the federal character of the Constitution. However, too much rigidity has been avoided to ensure the Constitution’s existence does not become fatal. The following points discuss this mixture:
- Rigid Provisions: Some provisions of the Constitution are rigid and require a special majority for amendment. This rigidity ensures that the Constitution is not easily altered, preserving its fundamental principles.
- Flexible Provisions: Some provisions can be amended by the Parliament alone by a simple majority. This flexibility allows the Constitution to adapt to changing circumstances and needs.
- Middle Path: The framers of the Constitution have followed a middle path as far as the procedure for the amendment of the Constitution is concerned. Certain provisions, which are federal in character, can be amended by the bilateral action of the Parliament and the State legislatures.
- Success of the Constitution: The mixture of rigidity and flexibility is one of the reasons behind the success of the Indian Constitution. It ensures stability while allowing for necessary changes.
- Adoption to Changing Circumstances: The Constitution has been made flexible so that it can adopt itself to changing circumstances. It had to be rigid to prevent it from becoming the handmaid of the ruling party.
Thus, the Constitution of India is partly rigid and partly flexible, ensuring its stability and adaptability.
8. Define Constitution. Explain its characteristics.
Answer: A constitution may be defined as a body of fundamental rules which regulate the activities of a state. It provides the basis of the functioning of a government. The following are the characteristics of a constitution:
- Based on Law: The idea of the Constitution is based on law. It provides a set of rules and principles that both the government and the people must follow.
- Fundamental Law: The Constitution is the fundamental law of the state. It is the supreme law that governs the country.
- Rules and Regulations: The Constitution provides rules and regulations to conduct the government of a state. It defines the powers of the government and the rights and obligations of the citizens.
- Not Static: The Constitution is not static. It can be amended partially or fully to adapt to changing circumstances.
- Government and People: The Constitution regulates the relationship between the government and the people. It ensures that the government functions according to the principles and rules laid down in the Constitution.
- Written and Unwritten: A Constitution may consist of written and unwritten rules and principles. In a broader sense, it includes legal and extra-legal rules followed in the government of a country.
- Expresses Social, Economic, and Political Principles: The Constitution expresses the social, economic, and political principles of a state. It reflects the aims and aspirations of the people.
These characteristics highlight the importance and role of a constitution in the functioning of a state.
Short Answer Type I
1. Write a short note on India’s secularism.
Answer: Secularism is another important feature of the Constitution of India. There is no state-religion in India. The term ‘Secular’ has been inserted in the Preamble to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment. India is a secular state from the date of birth of the Constitution. But now the inclusion of the term ‘Secular’ has removed misgivings about the secular character of our constitution. All the people of India have liberty of faith, belief and worship. There can be no discrimination on the ground of religion, caste or community. All religions and religious groups are equal before the state. Donald Eugene Smith says: “India is a secular state in the same sense which one can say that India is a democracy” .
2. Write a short note on ‘Single citizenship’ in India.
Answer: An important feature of the Constitution of India is the provision of single citizenship in the Constitution. Generally, in a federation double citizenship is granted to the citizens. Provision for single citizenship has been made in the Constitution to develop a feeling of unity and oneness among the people of India .
3. What is meant by Republic?
Answer: The Preamble to the Constitution declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. It implies that India is an independent country. So, it is sovereign. She is no longer under the control of any foreign power. India’s goal is to establish Socialism in the country by democratic means. The Constitution establishes a democratic form of government. It has provided for Universal Adult Suffrage and free and fair periodic elections. The Constitutions itself is based on democratic principles and its chief objective is to make the foundation of democracy strong in the Indian soil. The whole of India is covered by a network of democratic institutions. India is also a ‘Republic’ because the head of the state in India is elected for a fixed term, he is not a hereditary head. D. D. Basu says: “By the republican form of government is understood a government by representatives chosen by the people” .
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4. Is the Constitution of India rigid? Give reasons.
Answer: The Constitution of India is a blend of rigidity and flexibility. It had to be rigid because of the federal character of the Constitution. But too much rigidity has been avoided, so that the existence of the constitution does not become fatal. The Constitution of India is neither flexible nor rigid. It has been made flexible so that it can adopt itself to changing circumstances. It had to be rigid so that it would not become the handmaid of the ruling party. So, the framers of the Constitution have followed a middle path so far as the procedure for the amendment of the Constitution is concerned. It is one of the reasons behind the success of the Indian Constitution. Some of the provisions in the Constitution can be amended by the Parliament alone by simple majority. Some provisions may be amended by a special majority of the Parliament. Certain provisions, which are federal in character, can be amended by the bi-lateral action of the Parliament and the State legislatures. So, it can be said that our Constitution is partly rigid and partly flexible .
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5. In the Constitution of India based on the theory of Separation of Powers? Explain.
Answer: The Constitution of India has not been framed on the basis of the theory of separation of powers. But the judiciary has been made independent by the fathers of the Constitution. Independence of the judiciary is a basic characteristic of the Constitution of India. The Indian judiciary can discharge its duties without interference either from the executive or the legislature. The tenure of office of the judges has been ensured by the constitution. The Court of law also cannot be criticised. Independence of the judiciary is very essential for the success of democracy. Only an independent judiciary can protect the rights and liberties of the people .
6. Why has the Indian federation been described as a quasi-federation? Give four reasons.
Answer: The word ‘federation’ has not been used anywhere in the Constitution of India. She is called ‘a Union of States’, Article I of the Constitution mentions India as a ‘Union of States.’ But the Constitution of India has some federal characteristics. The Constitution is federal so far as the federal provisions are concerned. The Constitution has also distributed powers between the Centre and the States. We have a Supreme Court which acts as the guardian of the Constitution. Both the Central and State Government derive their powers from the Constitution which is the supreme law of the land. But India is not truly a federation. It is a federation of a flexible type. During emergency, it can be converted into a unitary system. The Central Government is more powerful than the State Governments. In some cases, the States are at the mercy of the Centre. The framers of the Constitution have preferred the term ‘Union’ instead of a federation. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar said the Constituent Assembly: “The federation is a Union, because it is indestructible” .
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7. Write two ideals enshrined in the Preamble to the constitution of India.
Answer: Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic: The Preamble to the Constitution declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic .
8. What is meant by constitution?
Answer: The government in a state has to function under certain clear-cut principles or rules, and, similarly, people enjoy their rights and meet their obligations, also according to a set of rules. This set of rules and principles is known as constitution. A constitution may be defined as a body of fundamental rules which regulate the activities of a state. Every modern constitution has three parts. First, it deals with the rights and obligations of citizens. Secondly, it deals with the government. Thirdly, it makes provisions for the amendment of the constitution. The aim of a constitution is to guide and to impose restraints on the rulers and the ruled .
9. What are the perverted forms of government according to Aristotle?
Answer: Aristotle has classified the perverted forms of government into three categories: Tyranny, Oligarchy, and Democracy. These are opposed to the three normal forms of government: Monarchy, Aristocracy, and Polity .
10. Mention two provisions that India borrowed from the US Constitution.
Answer: i. Character of Fundamental Rights.
ii. Power of Judicial Review and independence of the judiciary.
Short Answer Type II
1. Write two functions of the Constitution.
Answer:
- Constitution provides the basis of the functioning of a government.
- Constitution lays down principles about the structure of government and the functioning of its various organs.
2. Write any three sources of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- The British Constitutional system
- The U.S. Constitution
- The Constitution of Ireland
3. Why is India called a Republic?
Answer: India is called a Republic because the head of the state in India is elected for a fixed term, he is not a hereditary head.
4. Mention three Acts passed by the British Parliament for the Government of India before independence.
Answer:
- The Government of India Act 1919
- The Government of India Act 1935
- The Indian Councils Act 1909
5. Mention three independent agencies created under the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- The Election Commission
- The Public Service Commission
- The Comptroller and Auditor-General
6. Write any three salient features of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- Secularism: There is no state-religion in India.
- Parliamentary Government: The Constitution of India provides for a parliamentary form of government in the Centre as well as in the States.
- Fundamental Rights: The Constitution includes Fundamental Rights essential for achieving the ends of democracy.
7. Point out three features of secularism in India.
Answer:
- There is no state religion in India.
- All the people of India have liberty of faith, belief and worship.
- All religions and religious groups are equal before the state.
8. Mention four main features of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- Federalism: The Constitution has federal provisions and distributes powers between the Centre and the States.
- Secularism: The term ‘Secular’ has been inserted in the Preamble, and India is a secular state.
- Fundamental Rights: Inclusion of Fundamental Rights in the Constitution.
- Single Citizenship: Provision for single citizenship to develop a feeling of unity and oneness among the people of India.
9. Mention three important characteristics of Constitution.
Answer:
- The idea of Constitution is based on law.
- Constitution means the rules and regulations to conduct the government of a state.
- The Constitution is the fundamental law of the state.
10. Give one definition of a Constitution.
Answer: A Constitution may be defined as a body of fundamental rules which regulate the activities of a state.
11. Mention Aristotle’s three Normal Governments.
Answer:
- Monarchy
- Aristocracy
- Polity
12. What, according to Aristotle, are the Perverted Governments?
Answer:
- Tyranny
- Oligarchy
- Democracy
13. Write any four characteristics of an ideal Constitution.
Answer:
- The Constitution should determine who should rule and who are capable of participating in the powers of the government.
- The Constitution contains rights and obligations of the citizens.
- The Constitution prescribes the manner in which the power of the government is to be exercised.
- The Constitution must make provisions for effecting necessary changes in the constitution whenever necessary.
14. Write five unitary characteristics of Indian Constitution.
Answer:
- A single citizenship is granted to the citizens.
- Common All-India Services are provided for uniformity.
- Provision for common criminal laws throughout the country.
- The Central Government is more powerful than the State Governments.
- During emergency, the federal structure of the Constitution is converted into a unitary one.
Short Answer Type III
1. Name two Constitutions which influenced the framers of the Indian Constitution.
Answer: Government of India Act 1935, British Parliamentary System
2. Write two sources of the Indian Constitution.
Answer: Constituent Assembly Debates, Commentaries of Critics
3. Write two limitations of the Constitution of India.
Answer: The members of the Constituent Assembly were not democratically elected, It is a product of the Congress oligarchy
4. When was the Constitution of India approved and enforced?
Answer: The Constitution of India was approved on November 26, 1949, and enforced on January 26, 1950.
5. Name two Constitutions which influenced the fundamental rights.
Answer: United States Constitution, French Constitution
6. Write two features of independence of Indian Judiciary.
Answer: The tenure of office of the judges has been ensured by the Constitution, The judiciary can discharge its duties without interference from the executive or the legislature
7. Mention the subject-matter of any two schedules of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- First Schedule: Names of States and Union Territories
- Tenth Schedule: Anti-defection Law
8. Write two federal and two unfederal characteristics of the Constitution of India.
Answer:
- Federal characteristics: Distribution of powers between the Centre and the States, Supreme Court acts as the guardian of the Constitution
- Unfederal characteristics: During emergency, it can be converted into a unitary system, The Central Government is more powerful than the State Governments
9. Mention two unitary features of the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
- During an emergency, it can be converted into a unitary system
- The Central Government is more powerful than the State Governments
10. How many parts and how many schedules are there in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Constitution of India has 25 parts and 12 schedules.
11. Mention two characteristics of a Constitution.
Answer:
- A Constitution is the fundamental law of the state.
- A Constitution is not static and can be amended partially or fully.
12. Write any two contents of a Constitution.
Answer:
- A Constitution contains rights and obligations of the citizens.
- A Constitution prescribes the manner in which the power of the government is to be exercised.
13. Mention any two types of State as classified by Plato.
Answer:
- Timocracy
- Oligarchy
14. Should an Ideal Constitution be precise?
Answer: Yes, an ideal Constitution should be clear and precise to avoid future controversies and litigation.
15. Which kind of constitution is suitable for a federation—rigid or flexible?
Answer: A mixture of both rigid and flexible is suitable for a federation.
Objective Type
1. Mention one function of the Constitution.
Answer: The Constitution of India provides for a parliamentary form of government in the Centre as well as in the States.
2. Who was the chairman of the drafting committee of the constitution of India?
Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly.
3. Name two sources of the India Constitution.
Answer:
- The Constitution makers made use of the British Constitutional system.
- The U.S. Constitution.
4. When the first sitting of the Constituent Assembly for undivided India was held?
Answer: 9 December 1946.
5. Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly of India?
Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President of the Constituent Assembly.
6. Mention two foreign countries as source for Indian constitution.
Answer:
- United Kingdom
- United States of America
7. Name a feature of Indian Constitution drawn from the British Constitution.
Answer: Parliamentary form of government.
8. What is meant by Rigidity and flexibility of the constitution?
Answer: The Constitution of India is a blend of rigidity and flexibility.
9. Which Article of the Constitution declares India as ‘Union of States’?
Answer: Article 1.
10. Who drafted the constitution of India?
Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
11. Is the Constitution a limitation on governments powers?
Answer: Yes, the Constitution is a limitation on government’s powers.
12. Find out the wrong answers:
(a) The constitution is a body of fundamental principles.
(b) The constitution safeguards the rights and liberties of citizens.
(c) The constitution ensures that good people come to power.
(d) It upholds the objectives of the state.
Answer: The wrong answer is (c) The constitution ensures that good people come to power.
13. Under which plan the constituent Assembly was set up?
Answer: Cabinet Mission Plan.
14. Is the constitution of India a supreme law of the land?
Answer: Yes, the constitution of India is the supreme law of the land.
15. Explain the authority of the constitution of India.
Answer: The Constitution of India is the fundamental law of the land and is the source of all legislative, executive, and judicial powers.
16. Does India constitution enable the government to take positive welfare measures?
Answer: Yes, the Indian Constitution enables the government to take positive welfare measures.
17. Comment on ‘The Indian constitution is a borrowed constitution’.
Answer: The Indian Constitution has drawn features from many sources and is considered a unique and workable Constitution.
18. Describe Drafting committee of the constituent Assembly.
Answer: The Drafting Committee was chaired by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and was responsible for drafting the text of the Constitution.
19. When did the Constituent Assembly adopt the contribution of India? When did it come into force?
Answer: The Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution of India on 26 November 1949, and it came into force on 26 January 1950.
20. Explain the composition of the constituent Assembly.
Answer: The Constituent Assembly consisted of representatives elected by the provincial assemblies and nominated by the rulers of the princely states.
21. Name two functions of the constitution.
Answer:
- The Constitution provides a framework for governance.
- It guarantees fundamental rights to the citizens.
22. Is India a Secular State?
Answer: Yes, India is a secular state.
23. Does India has a State Religion?
Answer: No, India does not have a state religion.
24. When was the Constitution of India adopted?
Answer: The Constitution of India was adopted on 26 November 1949.
25. How many schedules are there in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: There are 12 schedules in the Indian Constitution.
26. Who elected the first President of India?
Answer: The Constituent Assembly elected the first President of India.
27. Is the Indian judiciary independent?
Answer: Yes, the Indian judiciary is independent.
28. Which Article of the Constitution declares India as a ‘Union of States’?
Answer: Article 1.
29. In which year Mahatma Gandhi started the Quit India Movement?
Answer: 1942.
30. How many Articles does the Constitution of India contain?
Answer: The Constitution of India originally had 395 articles.
31. According to which Article of the Indian Constitution, India is a ‘Union of State’?
(i) Article-1 (ii) Article-2 (iii) Article-3
Answer: (i) Article-1
32. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of Indian Constitution?
Answer: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
33. Who was the elected chairman of the Constituent Assembly?
Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
34. Write false or true:
(a) India is a secular State.
(b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the Drafting committee of the Constituent Assembly.
(c) Constituent Assembly was directly elected.
(d) A Constitution is a fundamental identity of a people.
(e) The constitution of India has drawn features from many sources.
(f) Constituent Assembly comprised representatives of all sections.
Answer: (a) True
(b) True
(c) False
(d) True
(e) True
(f) True
Textual Question
1. Which of these is not a function of the Constitution?
Answer: It ensures that good people come to power.
2. Which of the following is a good reason to conclude that the authority of the Constitution is higher than that of the parliament?
Answer: The Constitution specifies how parliament is to be formed and what are its powers.
3. State whether the following statements about a Constitution are True or False:
Answer: (a) True
(b) False
(c) False
(d) True
4. State whether the following inferences about the making of the Indian Constitution are Correct or Incorrect. Give reasons to support your answer.
Answer: (a) Correct
(b) Incorrect
(c) Incorrect
5. Give two examples each to support the following conclusions about the Indian Constitution:
Answer: (a) The Constitution was made by credible leaders who commanded peoples’ respect. Examples: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
(b) The Constitution has distributed power in such a way as to make it difficult to subvert it. Examples: Division of powers between the Centre and the States, System of checks and balances.
(c) The Constitution is the locus of people’s hopes and aspirations. Examples: Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy.
6. Why is it necessary for a country to have a clear demarcation of powers and responsibilities in the Constitution? What would happen in the absence of such a demarcation?
Answer: It is necessary for a country to have a clear demarcation of powers and responsibilities in the Constitution to ensure smooth functioning and avoid conflicts. In the absence of such a demarcation, there would be chaos, overlapping of functions, and misuse of power.
7. Why is it necessary for a Constitution to place limitations on the rulers? Can there be a Constitution that gives no power at all to the citizens?
Answer: It is necessary for a Constitution to place limitations on the rulers to prevent abuse of power and protect citizens’ rights. A Constitution that gives no power at all to the citizens would lead to tyranny and oppression.
8. The Japanese Constitution was made when the US occupation army was still in control of Japan after its defeat in the Second World War. The Japanese Constitution could not have had any provision that the US government did not like. Do you see any problem in this way of making the constitution? In which way was the Indian experience different from this?
Answer: Yes, there is a problem in this way of making the constitution as it may not truly reflect the will of the people. The Indian experience was different as the Indian Constitution was framed by a Constituent Assembly consisting of Indian leaders, representing the people’s will.
9. Rajat asked his teacher this question: “The constitution is a fifty year old and therefore outdated book. No one took my consent for implementing it. It is written in such tough language that I cannot understand it. Tell me why should I obey this document?” If you were the teacher how would you answer Rajat?
Answer: The Constitution, though old, provides the foundation for our legal system and protects our rights. It was framed by representatives of the people, and its principles are timeless. It can be amended to address current needs, ensuring it remains relevant.
10. In a discussion on the experience of the working of our Constitution three speakers took three different positions:
(a) Harbans: The Indian Constitution has succeeded in giving us a framework of democratic government.
(b) Neha: The Constitution made solemn promises of ensuring liberty, equality and fraternity. Since this has not happened, the Constitution has failed.
(c) Nazima: The Constitution has not failed us. We have failed the Constitution.
Answer: I agree with Nazima’s position. The Constitution provides a robust framework for democracy and rights, but its success depends on its implementation and adherence by the people and the government. Failures in these areas reflect on us, not on the Constitution itself.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger. He manages Online Free Notes and reads Victorian literature. His favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and he hopes to travel the world. Get in touch with him by sending him a friend request.
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