Important Sources of Constitution by Present Affairs

The Indian Constitution, adopted on January 26, 1950, is a remarkable document that draws inspiration from various global constitutions, reflecting the country’s diverse needs, challenges, and aspirations. It incorporates provisions from multiple nations, tailoring them to suit India’s unique socio-political landscape. Here’s a detailed look at the sources of the Indian Constitution:

Also read:>> Parts of Indian Constitution The Preamble of Constitution of India

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Sources of Indian Constitution in short

1. Government of India Act, 1935

• Key Contributions:
  • Federal structure
  • Provincial autonomy
  • Emergency provisions
  • Judiciary
  • Administrative System
  • Office of Governor
  • Public Service Commissions.

The Government of India Act, 1935, laid the groundwork for the administrative framework and became the primary blueprint for the Indian Constitution.

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2. British Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Parliamentary system of government.
  • Rule of Law
  • Single citizenship
  • Cabinet System
  • Speaker and his/her role
  • Legislative procedures

India adopted a parliamentary democracy on British model

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3. United States Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Fundamental Rights (Part III of the Indian Constitution).
  • Separation of powers among the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
  • Judicial review.
  • Impeachment of the President.
  • President As Supreme Commander of Armed Forces.
  • Removal of judges.

The Constitution of USA inspired India to incorporate a robust rights-based framework and an independent judiciary. Moreover USA was the first country to adopt the written constitution

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4. Irish Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)
  • Nomination of members of Rajya Sabha
  • Method of election of President

The concept of DPSPs, which guides the State in framing policies, was inspired by Ireland, emphasizing socio-economic justice.

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5. Canadian Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Federal system with a strong central authority.
  • Residual powers vested to the Union.
  • Distribution of powers between the central government and state governments.

This model of federalism influenced India’s balance of power between the central and state governments.

6. Australian Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Concurrent List.
  • Freedom of trade and commerce.
  • Joint sitting of Parliament to resolve deadlocks.

The Australian Constitution provided insights into managing legislative powers in addition to resolving conflicts between Houses.

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7. Soviet (USSR) Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Fundamental Duties.
  • Ideals of justice—social, economic, and political.

The USSR’s (that is Russia currently) emphasis on collective responsibility and duties influenced the Indian perspective on citizen obligations.

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8. French Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Republic
  • Ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.

The Preamble of the Indian Constitution reflects the French Revolution’s core principles.

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9. Weimar Constitution of Germany

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Suspension of Fundamental Rights during emergencies.
  • Emergency Powers

The Indian emergency provisions drew from Germany’s Weimar Constitution, balancing authority and civil liberties.

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10. South African Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Procedure for amendment of the Constitution.
  • Election of the Rajya Sabha members.

South Africa’s method of constitutional amendments and proportional representation attracted India’s approach.

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11. Japanese Constitution

• Key Features Borrowed:
  • Procedure for the adoption of laws.

Japan’s focus on disciplined legal procedures was adapted into the Indian legislative system.

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Also read:>> Parts of Indian Constitution The Preamble of Constitution of India Important Festivals of India