What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
What are the key features of the Indian Constitution?
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The Indian Constitution is a comprehensive and detailed document that serves as the foundation of the country's governance. Here are the key features of the Indian Constitution:
1. Lengthiest Written Constitution
The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world. It originally had 395 articles, 22 parts, and 8 schedules. Over time, amendments have added new articles and schedules, making it even more extensive.
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2. Federal System with Unitary Bias
India has a federal system of governance, which means that power is divided between the central government and the states. However, it also has unitary features, such as a strong central government, which ensures a balance between centralization and decentralization of power.
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3. Parliamentary Democracy
India follows a parliamentary form of government, where the executive is responsible to the legislature. The President is the nominal head of state, while the Prime Minister is the real head of government.
4. Fundamental Rights
The Constitution guarantees six fundamental rights to all citizens:
Right to Equality
Right to Freedom
Right against Exploitation
Right to Freedom of Religion
Cultural and Educational Rights
Right to Constitutional Remedies
5. Directive Principles of State Policy
These are guidelines for the government to follow while framing policies and laws. They aim to create a just society by promoting social and economic welfare.
6. Secular State
India is a secular state, meaning it does not favor any particular religion and treats all religions equally. This principle ensures religious freedom and equality among citizens.
7. Independent Judiciary
The Constitution provides for an independent judiciary to interpret the laws and protect the rights of citizens. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial authority in India.
8. Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility
The Constitution is both rigid and flexible. Certain provisions can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, while others require a special majority and ratification by at least half of the state legislatures.
9. Basic Structure Doctrine
This doctrine ensures that certain fundamental principles of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed through amendments by Parliament. It protects the basic framework of the Constitution, including democracy, secularism, and judicial independence.
10. Preamble
The Preamble to the Constitution outlines the objectives and guiding principles of the document. It declares India to
