Some Unknown Facts About the Indian Constitution
Today, on the occasion of India’s 74th Republic day, we are here to tell you about some interesting facts about the Indian Constitution.
India, the most populous country in the world and the seventh largest by area, has a rich history filled with the rise and fall of many empires. The Indian Constitution, adopted on 26th November 1949 and coming into effect on 26th January 1950, marks India as a republic. As we celebrate the 76th Republic Day of India, let's take a look at some fascinating facts about the Indian Constitution.
Borrowed Elements
The Indian Constitution is a mix of ideas from several countries. It has borrowed provisions from the constitutions of the UK, USA, France, and the USSR. However, it was designed with a deep understanding of India's unique traditions, historical background, and cultural diversity.
Dr. B R Ambedkar's Efforts
Dr. B R Ambedkar, known as the architect of the Indian Constitution, studied 60 different constitutions while working on this monumental task. He was helped by a committee of experts in drafting the Constitution.
Handwritten Constitution
Unlike printed or typed documents, the Indian Constitution was handwritten by calligrapher Prem Behari Narain Raizada in a beautiful flowing italics style. Jawaharlal Nehru requested Raizada to write the document. Raizada's only condition was that he wanted to sign on each page, including the last page with his grandfather.
Artistic Touch from Shantiniketan
The pages of the Constitution were beautifully decorated by artists like Beohar Rammanohar Sinha and Nandalal Bose from Shantiniketan, West Bengal. Their art added a touch of culture and elegance to the historic document.
Longest Constitution in the World
The Indian Constitution is the longest in the world. It consists of 448 articles, divided into 25 parts, along with schedules and amendments. The Constitution spans 1.46 lakh words and took almost three years (2 years, 11 months, and 18 days) to draft.
Diverse Constituent Assembly
The Constituent Assembly that framed the Indian Constitution was made up of 389 members from various backgrounds. These members debated, discussed, and ensured that every possible provision was carefully considered to create a well-balanced document.
Separation of Powers
The Indian Constitution sets up a system of checks and balances by separating the powers of the legislature, executive, and judiciary. This system helps avoid the abuse of power by preventing any one branch from having too much control.
Voting Rights for Women
One of the most significant changes brought by the Indian Constitution was the right to vote for women. The Constitution made it possible for every citizen, regardless of gender, to vote in elections.
Original Copies
There are three original copies of the Constitution, kept in special cases in the Parliament Library. These copies are beautifully bound in black leather with golden patterns.
The Preamble
The Preamble is like the heartbeat of the Indian Constitution. It serves as an introduction to the document, highlighting the core values of the Constitution, such as Justice, Equality, and Liberty. It declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
Dr. Ambedkar’s Discontent
Despite being the main architect, Dr. Ambedkar expressed dissatisfaction with the Constitution just three years after its adoption. He argued that it did not grant enough power to the governors, and famously said he might even "burn" the Constitution in the future.
A Living Document
The Indian Constitution is referred to as a "living document" because it can be amended to reflect the changing needs and aspirations of the people. Over the years, it has undergone 105 amendments, the most recent being in August 2021.
The Indian Constitution is not just a legal document but a living reflection of the country’s principles and aspirations. Its ability to evolve with time ensures it remains relevant to the diverse and dynamic needs of India and its citizens.
