The Constituent Assembly of India played a crucial role in shaping the foundation of the Indian Republic. Its primary function was to draft the Constitution of India and lay down the fundamental principles of governance for the newly independent nation. Below is an overview of the working and significance of the Constituent Assembly:
Formation and Meetings:
- The Constituent Assembly first met on December 9, 1946, with Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha elected as the temporary President.
- Dr. Rajendra Prasad was later elected as the President, and H.C. Mukherjee and V.T. Krishnamachari as Vice-Presidents.
- The Assembly initially had 211 members present due to the Muslim League's boycott.
Objectives Resolution:
- Jawaharlal Nehru introduced the 'Objectives Resolution' on December 13, 1946.
- The resolution laid down the foundational principles and philosophy for the future Constitution.
- It was adopted by the Assembly on January 22, 1947, and formed the basis for the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.
Changes by the Indian Independence Act of 1947:
- The Indian Independence Act made significant changes to the Constituent Assembly's authority and composition.
- The Assembly had the authority to create a Constitution for India and could modify any British laws concerning India.
- The Assembly also served as the first Parliament of free India, with separate sessions for drafting the Constitution and enacting ordinary laws.
- After the Act, the Assembly's total strength was reduced due to the withdrawal of Muslim League members from Pakistan, affecting the Indian provinces and princely states.
Other Functions Performed:
- Ratification of India's membership in the Commonwealth: May 1949.
- Adoption of the national flag: July 22, 1947.
- Adoption of the national anthem and song: January 24, 1950.
- Election of Dr. Rajendra Prasad as the first President of India: January 24, 1950.
Duration and Sessions:
- The Constituent Assembly had 11 sessions over 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days.
- The Assembly considered the draft Constitution for 114 days, examining the constitutions of around 60 countries.
- The total expenditure for the Constitution's drafting amounted to ₹64 lakh.
Final Session and Transition to Parliament:
- The Constituent Assembly held its final session on January 24, 1950.
- It continued to function as the provisional Parliament of India from January 26, 1950, until the formation of the new Parliament after the first general elections in 1951-52.
The Constituent Assembly's work laid the foundation for democratic governance in India, establishing a strong framework for the nation's future progress and development.
Hindi Text of the Constitution
Originally, the Constitution of India did not make any provision with respect to an authoritative text of the Constitution in the Hindi language. Later, a provision in this regard was made by the 58th Constitutional Amendment Act of 1987. This amendment inserted a new Article 394-A in the last part of the Constitution i.e., Part XXII.
Important Facts about Constitution
Drafting Committee
Major Committee in making of Constitution
Experts Committee of Congress
Demand for Constituent Assembly
Enactment and Enforcement of Constitution
68th BPSC
Q. What was the duration in the making of the Indian Constitution?
A. 1 year 10 months and 12 days
B. 2 years 10 months and 5 days
C. 2 years 11 months and 18 days
D. None of the above
