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Indian Polity Ch1 To 4 Simplified

The document outlines the first four chapters of 'Indian Polity' by M. Laxmikanth, covering the Constitution's definition, historical background, and its significance in establishing government structure and protecting rights. It details the making of the Constitution through the Constituent Assembly, key dates, and salient features such as federalism and secularism. The Preamble is highlighted as a reflection of the Constitution's philosophy, emphasizing justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

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14 views5 pages

Indian Polity Ch1 To 4 Simplified

The document outlines the first four chapters of 'Indian Polity' by M. Laxmikanth, covering the Constitution's definition, historical background, and its significance in establishing government structure and protecting rights. It details the making of the Constitution through the Constituent Assembly, key dates, and salient features such as federalism and secularism. The Preamble is highlighted as a reflection of the Constitution's philosophy, emphasizing justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Uploaded by

tractor98124
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Indian Polity by M.

Laxmikanth: Chapters 1 to 4 (Detailed Notes)

Chapter 1: Introduction to the Constitution (with Historical Background)

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What is a Constitution?

- A Constitution is a basic set of rules that governs the functioning of a country.

- It defines powers of the government and rights of the citizens.

- It limits government so that individual liberty is protected.

- It expresses the aspirations of the people.

Why Does a Country Need a Constitution?

- To establish government structure (Executive, Legislature, Judiciary).

- To ensure Rule of Law (government must act within the law).

- To protect rights of minorities and individuals.

- To resolve conflicts peacefully through legal methods.

Sources of Indian Constitution:

- India borrowed many features from different countries:

1. Parliamentary System (United Kingdom)

2. Fundamental Rights (United States)

3. Directive Principles (Ireland)

4. Federal Structure (Canada)

5. Procedure for Amendment (South Africa)

6. Emergency Provisions (Germany)


Historical Background:

- British East India Company ruled parts of India from 1600.

- After the Revolt of 1857, the British Crown took direct control (1858).

Key Constitutional Developments under British Rule:

1. Regulating Act, 1773: First step to control Company affairs;

Governor-General of Bengal post created.

2. Pitt's India Act, 1784: Established dual control by Company and British

Government.

3. Charter Acts (1813, 1833, 1853): Centralized Indian administration.

4. Government of India Act, 1858: Ended East India Company; Crown rule

started.

5. Indian Councils Acts (1861, 1892): Allowed limited Indian representation.

6. Morley-Minto Reforms, 1909: Separate electorates for Muslims introduced.

7. Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms, 1919: Dyarchy at provincial level; limited

self-governance.

8. Government of India Act, 1935: Basis for Indian Constitution; introduced

provincial autonomy.

9. Indian Independence Act, 1947: Partition of India and Pakistan; ended British

rule.

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Chapter 2: Making of the Constitution

-------------------------------------

- Constituent Assembly formed under the Cabinet Mission Plan (1946).


- Dr. Rajendra Prasad elected as President of the Assembly.

- Constitution drafted under leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (Chairman of

Drafting Committee).

Important Dates:

- December 9, 1946: First meeting of Constituent Assembly.

- November 26, 1949: Constitution adopted.

- January 26, 1950: Constitution came into force (Republic Day).

Features:

- Represented all sections of Indian society.

- Based on principles of democracy and social justice.

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Chapter 3: Salient Features of the Constitution

-----------------------------------------------

- Lengthiest written Constitution in the world.

- Blend of rigidity (special majority) and flexibility (simple majority for

amendments).

- Federal structure with unitary bias (strong Centre).

- Parliamentary system of government with responsible executive.

- Single citizenship for all Indians.

- Independent judiciary with judicial review.

- Secular state with no official religion.

- Universal adult franchise for citizens above 18 years.


- Emergency provisions for extraordinary situations.

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Chapter 4: Preamble of the Constitution

---------------------------------------

- Preamble is the introduction to the Constitution, reflecting its philosophy and

objectives.

- Declares India as Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, and Republic.

- Objectives: Justice (social, economic, political), Liberty (thought, expression,

belief, faith, worship), Equality (status and opportunity), and Fraternity

(assuring unity and dignity).

Amendments:

- 42nd Amendment Act (1976) added the words "Socialist", "Secular", and

"Integrity".

Legal Status:

- Supreme Court (Kesavananda Bharati Case, 1973): Preamble is part of the

Constitution but not enforceable in courts.

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Summary Table:

| Chapter | Focus Area | Highlights |

|--------|---------------------------|------------------------------------------------|
|1 | Historical Background | British acts, evolution of Indian governance

|2 | Making of Constitution | Constituent Assembly, key dates |

|3 | Features of Constitution | Federalism, single citizenship, secular state |

|4 | Preamble | Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity |

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