Introduction

1. The States Reorganization Act, 1956, is a landmark legislation in Indian history that reorganized the states of India based on linguistic lines.
2. It came into effect on November 1, 1956, marking a significant step toward addressing regional and linguistic aspirations.
3. The Act was based on the recommendations of the States Reorganization Commission (SRC).

Background

1. After independence, India inherited a mix of British provinces and pri

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution outlines the structure of the Union and its territory in Articles 1–4.
2. These articles define the territorial composition of India, the admission of new states, and the reorganization of states and territories.
3. They ensure the unity and integrity of the Indian nation while allowing flexibility for territorial adjustments.

Article 1: Name and Territory of the Union

1. Declares India as a Union of States.

Introduction

1. The Basic Structure Doctrine is a judicial principle that prevents amendments that can alter the fundamental essence of the Indian Constitution.
2. It ensures the Constitution’s supremacy and safeguards its core principles from arbitrary changes.
3. This doctrine was established by the Supreme Court of India in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case (1973).

Origin of the Doctrine

1. First hinted at in the Sajjan Singh case (1965), where some judges ex

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution has undergone several amendments to adapt to changing political, social, and economic conditions.
2. Landmark amendments such as the 42nd, 44th, 73rd, 74th, and 101st Amendments have significantly impacted India's governance.
3. These amendments address areas like the basic structure, democracy at the grassroots, and economic reforms.

42nd Amendment Act, 1976

1. Known as the "Mini-Constitution" due to its extensive changes.
2. Added the terms "Socialist," "Secular

Introduction

1. Article 368 of the Indian Constitution provides the procedure for amending the Constitution.
2. Amendments are necessary to address evolving needs and ensure the Constitution remains relevant and effective.
3. The process of amendment maintains the balance between rigidity and flexibility.
4. The Indian Constitution is unique in providing three types of amendments, ensuring adaptability while safeguarding core principles.

Types of Amendments

1.

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution is based on the principles of secularism, socialism, and democracy.
2. These features are derived from the Preamble and are fundamental to the Indian state and governance.
3. They reflect the aspirations of a diverse and inclusive society.

Secularism in the Indian Constitution

1. India is a secular state, meaning there is no official state religion.
2. Article 25-28 guarantee freedom of religion, includin

Introduction

1. The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) are enshrined in Part IV of the Indian Constitution (Articles 36–51).
2. DPSPs are guidelines for the government to establish a just and equitable society.
3. They are inspired by the Irish Constitution, which drew from the idea of a welfare state.
4. While not justiciable, they are fundamental in the governance of the country.

Key Features of DPSPs

1. DPSPs act as a directive for the state to make laws and policie

Introduction

1. The Fundamental Rights are enshrined in Part III of the Indian Constitution (Articles 12 to 35).
2. The Fundamental Duties are listed in Part IV-A (Article 51A), added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
3. The Fundamental Rights aim to ensure the individual's dignity, while the Fundamental Duties emphasize the importance of responsibilities toward the nation.

Fundamental Rights

Key Features

1. They are justiciable, meaning they

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution establishes a parliamentary form of government both at the Union and State levels.
2. This system is based on the Westminster model of governance, which originated in the United Kingdom.
3. In a parliamentary system, the executive is responsible to the legislature, ensuring a close relationship between the two.
4. The primary feature of this system is the presence of a dual executive—the nominal and real executives.

Key Features o

Introduction

1. The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system of governance with a strong unitary bias.
2. It incorporates features of both federalism and unitarism, making it a unique form of governance often described as "quasi-federal."
3. This structure ensures a balance between the autonomy of states and the authority of the central government.

Federal Features

1. India has a clear division of powers bet