The Preamble of the Indian Constitution holds a significant place in shaping the country’s democratic values and guiding principles. It succinctly articulates the vision and aspirations of the Indian state and outlines the fundamental ideals that form the foundation of the Republic of India. Understanding the Preamble is essential for anyone studying the Constitution, especially for those preparing for competitive exams. In this blog post, we delve into the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, presenting a collection of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) along with answers to help you gain a deeper understanding of its core principles.
Whether you’re a student, a civil services aspirant, or just someone interested in the Constitution, these MCQs will not only test your knowledge but also enhance your grasp of the key concepts embedded in the Preamble.
Preamble of the Indian Constitution MCQs and Answers
1. What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution often referred to as? [MCQ]
a) The soul of the Constitution
b) The introduction to the Constitution
c) The index of the Constitution
d) The spirit of the Constitution
Answer: b) The introduction to the Constitution
2. Who described the Preamble as the “horoscope of our Sovereign Democratic Republic”? [MCQ]
a) B.R. Ambedkar
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) K.M. Munshi
d) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: c) K.M. Munshi
3. Which of the following words is NOT mentioned in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Integrity
b) Justice
c) Liberty
d) Democracy
Answer: d) Democracy
4. When was the Preamble of the Indian Constitution adopted? [MCQ]
a) January 26, 1950
b) November 26, 1949
c) August 15, 1947
d) October 2, 1947
Answer: b) November 26, 1949
5. Which amendment added the words “Socialist” and “Secular” to the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) 24th Amendment
b) 42nd Amendment
c) 44th Amendment
d) 52nd Amendment
Answer: b) 42nd Amendment
6. Which of the following terms is included in the Preamble to promote fraternity? [MCQ]
a) Sovereign
b) Secular
c) Integrity
d) Socialist
Answer: c) Integrity
7. Who moved the “Objective Resolution” in the Constituent Assembly, which later influenced the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
d) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: b) Jawaharlal Nehru
8. Which part of the Indian Constitution is often compared to the American Constitution’s Declaration of Independence? [MCQ]
a) The Fundamental Rights
b) The Directive Principles
c) The Preamble
d) The Union and its Territory
Answer: c) The Preamble
9. The phrase “We, the people of India” in the Preamble signifies the concept of: [MCQ]
a) Popular Sovereignty
b) Federalism
c) Judicial Supremacy
d) Parliamentary Sovereignty
Answer: a) Popular Sovereignty
10. In which landmark case did the Supreme Court rule that the Preamble is part of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Keshavananda Bharati Case
b) Minerva Mills Case
c) Golaknath Case
d) A.K. Gopalan Case
Answer: a) Keshavananda Bharati Case
11. Which of these ideals was part of the Preamble originally? [MCQ]
a) Integrity
b) Secular
c) Sovereign
d) Socialist
Answer: c) Sovereign
12. How many times has the Preamble been amended? [MCQ]
a) Never
b) Once
c) Twice
d) Thrice
Answer: b) Once
13. Which part of the Indian Constitution is said to embody the philosophy of the entire Constitution? [MCQ]
a) The Fundamental Rights
b) The Directive Principles
c) The Preamble
d) The Schedules
Answer: c) The Preamble
14. The Preamble envisions India as a: [MCQ]
a) Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Sovereign Republic
b) Socialist, Secular, Sovereign, Democratic Republic
c) Secular, Socialist, Republic, Democratic
d) Democratic, Socialist, Secular Republic
Answer: b) Socialist, Secular, Sovereign, Democratic Republic
15. The words “Justice – Social, Economic, and Political” in the Preamble signify: [MCQ]
a) The fundamental rights of citizens
b) The social and economic equality among citizens
c) The need for judicial independence
d) The duties of the government
Answer: b) The social and economic equality among citizens
16. Which term implies that the government does not favor any religion? [MCQ]
a) Secular
b) Sovereign
c) Democratic
d) Socialist
Answer: a) Secular
17. In which year was the 42nd Amendment Act passed that amended the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) 1972
b) 1975
c) 1976
d) 1978
Answer: c) 1976
18. The term “Republic” in the Preamble means: [MCQ]
a) A country ruled by a monarch
b) A country ruled by elected representatives
c) A country with freedom of religion
d) A country with a federal structure
Answer: b) A country ruled by elected representatives
19. The idea of the Preamble was derived from which country’s constitution? [MCQ]
a) USA
b) UK
c) Canada
d) Australia
Answer: a) USA
20. Which of the following concepts is NOT included in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Liberty
b) Equality
c) Federalism
d) Justice
Answer: c) Federalism
21. The word “Liberty” in the Preamble primarily signifies: [MCQ]
a) Freedom from foreign rule
b) Freedom in terms of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship
c) Economic independence
d) Social equality
Answer: b) Freedom in terms of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship
22. The concept of “Fraternity” mentioned in the Preamble aims to promote: [MCQ]
a) Religious tolerance
b) Economic equality
c) A sense of brotherhood and unity among citizens
d) A federal structure
Answer: c) A sense of brotherhood and unity among citizens
23. Who called the Preamble the “Political Horoscope” of the Indian Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Jawaharlal Nehru
b) K.M. Munshi
c) B.R. Ambedkar
d) Nani Palkhivala
Answer: b) K.M. Munshi
24. Which case established that the Preamble is part of the basic structure of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) A.K. Gopalan Case
b) Minerva Mills Case
c) Berubari Union Case
d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
Answer: d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
25. The phrase “Unity and Integrity of the Nation” was added to the Preamble by: [MCQ]
a) The 44th Amendment
b) The 42nd Amendment
c) The 24th Amendment
d) The 52nd Amendment
Answer: b) The 42nd Amendment
26. Which of the following is a primary objective mentioned in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Fundamental Rights
b) Justice – Social, Economic, and Political
c) Fundamental Duties
d) Protection of Minorities
Answer: b) Justice – Social, Economic, and Political
27. “Justice – Social, Economic, and Political” in the Preamble derives inspiration from which feature? [MCQ]
a) Fundamental Rights
b) Directive Principles of State Policy
c) Fundamental Duties
d) Union List
Answer: b) Directive Principles of State Policy
28. The idea of “Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity” was inspired by which revolution? [MCQ]
a) American Revolution
b) French Revolution
c) Russian Revolution
d) Industrial Revolution
Answer: b) French Revolution
29. The Preamble declares India as a “Sovereign” state. What does “Sovereign” imply? [MCQ]
a) India is free from British rule
b) India has the power to conduct its own affairs independently
c) India is a socialist country
d) India is a secular state
Answer: b) India has the power to conduct its own affairs independently
30. In the Berubari Union Case, the Supreme Court initially held that: [MCQ]
a) The Preamble is not a part of the Constitution
b) The Preamble is the most important part of the Constitution
c) The Preamble has no legal significance
d) The Preamble can be amended freely
Answer: a) The Preamble is not a part of the Constitution
31. Which of the following ideals was NOT added to the Preamble by the 42nd Amendment? [MCQ]
a) Socialist
b) Secular
c) Integrity
d) Justice
Answer: d) Justice
32. The idea of “Republic” in the Preamble means: [MCQ]
a) A head of state elected by the people
b) A system governed by monarchy
c) Freedom of religion
d) Division of powers
Answer: a) A head of state elected by the people
33. Which part of the Preamble emphasizes the goal of “Equality of Status and Opportunity”? [MCQ]
a) Fraternity
b) Justice
c) Liberty
d) Equality
Answer: d) Equality
34. Which case confirmed that the Preamble is a part of the basic structure of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) S.R. Bommai Case
b) Golaknath Case
c) Keshavananda Bharati Case
d) Indira Sawhney Case
Answer: c) Keshavananda Bharati Case
35. The Preamble uses the term “Secular,” which means: [MCQ]
a) The state has its official religion
b) The state does not recognize any religion as the state religion
c) The state favors majority religion
d) Religion-based governance
Answer: b) The state does not recognize any religion as the state religion
36. The Preamble serves as a guiding principle for: [MCQ]
a) Legislative interpretation only
b) Executive decisions only
c) All three organs of the government – Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary
d) Judicial interpretation only
Answer: c) All three organs of the government – Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary
37. In the context of the Preamble, “Liberty” is provided for all of the following EXCEPT: [MCQ]
a) Expression
b) Belief
c) Equality
d) Worship
Answer: c) Equality
38. Which part of the Constitution expresses the nature of the Indian state and its objectives? [MCQ]
a) Fundamental Rights
b) The Preamble
c) Union List
d) Schedule
Answer: b) The Preamble
39. The idea of “Sovereignty” in the Preamble implies that India: [MCQ]
a) Is under the British Commonwealth
b) Has the power to conduct its own affairs both internally and externally
c) Shares sovereignty with other nations
d) Has a federal structure
Answer: b) Has the power to conduct its own affairs both internally and externally
40. What term in the Preamble denotes that India’s government is elected by its people? [MCQ]
a) Secular
b) Socialist
c) Republic
d) Sovereign
Answer: c) Republic
41. Which case emphasized that the Preamble reflects the foundational principles of the Indian Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Golaknath Case
b) Minerva Mills Case
c) Keshavananda Bharati Case
d) A.K. Gopalan Case
Answer: b) Minerva Mills Case
42. “Socialist” in the Preamble implies the idea of: [MCQ]
a) Economic equality for all citizens
b) Political independence from foreign nations
c) Monarchy in governance
d) Religious uniformity
Answer: a) Economic equality for all citizens
43. In which case did the Supreme Court hold that the Preamble is not enforceable by law? [MCQ]
a) Indira Sawhney Case
b) Berubari Union Case
c) Minerva Mills Case
d) S.R. Bommai Case
Answer: b) Berubari Union Case
44. The Preamble’s phrase “Equality of status and opportunity” is reflected in which part of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Fundamental Rights
b) Fundamental Duties
c) Schedules
d) Union List
Answer: a) Fundamental Rights
45. “We, the people of India” at the beginning of the Preamble emphasizes: [MCQ]
a) Parliamentary Sovereignty
b) Executive Sovereignty
c) Judicial Supremacy
d) Popular Sovereignty
Answer: d) Popular Sovereignty
46. Which of the following cases confirmed that the Preamble could be used to interpret ambiguous provisions of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) S.R. Bommai Case
b) Golaknath Case
c) A.K. Gopalan Case
d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
Answer: d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
47. The words “Secular” and “Socialist” were added to the Preamble to emphasize: [MCQ]
a) Political justice and liberty
b) Economic and religious tolerance
c) Social, economic, and religious harmony
d) Democratic equality
Answer: c) Social, economic, and religious harmony
48. Which of the following is NOT a concept directly mentioned in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Democracy
b) Sovereignty
c) Federalism
d) Fraternity
Answer: c) Federalism
49. “Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship” reflects the commitment to which fundamental right? [MCQ]
a) Right to Equality
b) Right to Freedom
c) Right against Exploitation
d) Right to Constitutional Remedies
Answer: b) Right to Freedom
50. The word “Justice” in the Preamble implies which forms of justice? [MCQ]
a) Legal and Political
b) Social, Economic, and Political
c) Civil and Criminal
d) Economic and Judicial
Answer: b) Social, Economic, and Political
51. The philosophy of the Preamble is said to be derived from which famous document? [MCQ]
a) American Declaration of Independence
b) French Declaration of the Rights of Man
c) Canadian Charter of Rights
d) Magna Carta
Answer: a) American Declaration of Independence
52. Which concept of the Preamble ensures that the head of state is not a monarch? [MCQ]
a) Democratic
b) Secular
c) Republic
d) Socialist
Answer: c) Republic
53. Which of the following cases confirmed that amendments to the Constitution cannot violate the “basic structure,” including ideals in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Berubari Union Case
b) A.K. Gopalan Case
c) Keshavananda Bharati Case
d) Maneka Gandhi Case
Answer: c) Keshavananda Bharati Case
54. Which fundamental right primarily upholds the “Liberty of expression” in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Right to Equality
b) Right to Freedom of Speech
c) Right to Religious Freedom
d) Right against Exploitation
Answer: b) Right to Freedom of Speech
55. The phrase “Unity and Integrity of the Nation” promotes the concept of: [MCQ]
a) Regionalism
b) National Integration
c) Secularism
d) Socialism
Answer: b) National Integration
56. The ideals in the Preamble were inspired by the Objective Resolution introduced by: [MCQ]
a) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
b) Jawaharlal Nehru
c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
d) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: b) Jawaharlal Nehru
57. In the Minerva Mills Case, the Supreme Court held that: [MCQ]
a) The Preamble is not a part of the Constitution
b) The Preamble cannot be amended
c) The Preamble is a part of the basic structure
d) The Preamble cannot override the Constitution
Answer: c) The Preamble is a part of the basic structure
58. The concept of “Justice” in the Preamble primarily relates to the: [MCQ]
a) Economic status of the nation
b) Rights of the majority
c) Social, economic, and political aspirations of citizens
d) Moral and ethical responsibilities of the judiciary
Answer: c) Social, economic, and political aspirations of citizens
59. The Preamble’s mention of “Fraternity” aims to avoid: [MCQ]
a) Caste-based discrimination
b) Economic disparity
c) Religious intolerance
d) Regional and social divisions
Answer: d) Regional and social divisions
60. Which principle in the Preamble reflects the idea that the state should be governed by representatives elected by the people? [MCQ]
a) Sovereign
b) Republic
c) Socialist
d) Secular
Answer: b) Republic
61. The Preamble acts as the: [MCQ]
a) Enforceable section of the Constitution
b) Vision of the Constitution
c) Directive Principles of the Constitution
d) Part III of the Constitution
Answer: b) Vision of the Constitution
62. What is the significance of the term “Democratic” in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Only government officials can vote
b) Every citizen has the right to vote
c) Only the head of state is elected
d) Power rests with the nobility
Answer: b) Every citizen has the right to vote
63. Who is considered the architect of the Indian Constitution, who also played a major role in framing the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Jawaharlal Nehru
b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
d) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: b) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
64. The 42nd Amendment to the Constitution, which changed the Preamble, is also known as: [MCQ]
a) The Democratic Amendment
b) The Socialist Amendment
c) The Mini-Constitution
d) The Secular Constitution
Answer: c) The Mini-Constitution
65. Which part of the Constitution lays down the fundamental duties of Indian citizens? [MCQ]
a) Preamble
b) Part IV-A
c) Part III
d) Part VI
Answer: b) Part IV-A
66. The Preamble serves as a key to interpret which of the following? [MCQ]
a) Fundamental Duties
b) Fundamental Rights
c) Government Policies
d) Union List
Answer: b) Fundamental Rights
67. The Preamble was influenced by which country’s approach to outlining constitutional principles? [MCQ]
a) Australia
b) United Kingdom
c) United States
d) Canada
Answer: c) United States
68. Which term in the Preamble reflects that India will make its own policies and laws free from external interference? [MCQ]
a) Democratic
b) Sovereign
c) Socialist
d) Secular
Answer: b) Sovereign
69. In which case did the Supreme Court describe the Preamble as the “soul” of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Golaknath Case
b) Keshavananda Bharati Case
c) Minerva Mills Case
d) Indira Nehru Gandhi v. Raj Narain Case
Answer: c) Minerva Mills Case
70. Which fundamental value in the Preamble opposes the existence of extreme economic inequality? [MCQ]
a) Fraternity
b) Justice
c) Liberty
d) Secularism
Answer: b) Justice
71. The term “Socialist” in the Preamble implies: [MCQ]
a) Establishment of communism
b) Government control over all industries
c) Economic and social equality for all
d) A feudal society
Answer: c) Economic and social equality for all
72. How does the Preamble contribute to the interpretation of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) It has binding legal force
b) It acts as a key to the mind of the framers
c) It has no role in interpretation
d) It replaces the Directive Principles
Answer: b) It acts as a key to the mind of the framers
73. Which phrase in the Preamble promotes the spirit of nationalism and integration? [MCQ]
a) Justice
b) Unity and Integrity of the Nation
c) Liberty
d) Equality
Answer: b) Unity and Integrity of the Nation
74. The phrase “We, the people of India” signifies which of the following principles? [MCQ]
a) Unity in diversity
b) Popular sovereignty
c) Parliamentary supremacy
d) Judicial supremacy
Answer: b) Popular sovereignty
75. Who described the Preamble as the “Political Horoscope” of the Indian Constitution? [MCQ]
a) K.M. Munshi
b) Nani Palkhivala
c) Jawaharlal Nehru
d) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: a) K.M. Munshi
76. Which of the following objectives in the Preamble is achieved through the Fundamental Rights? [MCQ]
a) Liberty
b) Equality
c) Justice
d) Fraternity
Answer: a) Liberty
77. The Preamble was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on which date? [MCQ]
a) 26th November 1949
b) 26th January 1950
c) 15th August 1947
d) 2nd October 1947
Answer: a) 26th November 1949
78. In which case did the Supreme Court hold that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Berubari Union Case
b) S.R. Bommai Case
c) Indira Sawhney Case
d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
Answer: d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
79. What is the nature of the “Sovereign” status as mentioned in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) India is ruled by the British
b) India is independent in making its internal and external policies
c) India is under a monarchy
d) India is an authoritarian state
Answer: b) India is independent in making its internal and external policies
80. Which principle in the Preamble opposes all forms of discrimination? [MCQ]
a) Liberty
b) Fraternity
c) Equality
d) Secularism
Answer: c) Equality
81. Which feature of the Indian Constitution, reflected in the Preamble, is considered similar to that of the Constitution of Ireland? [MCQ]
a) Federalism
b) Directive Principles of State Policy
c) Fundamental Rights
d) Preamble’s language and structure
Answer: b) Directive Principles of State Policy
82. The term “Socialist” was added to the Preamble through which Constitutional Amendment? [MCQ]
a) 24th Amendment
b) 40th Amendment
c) 42nd Amendment
d) 44th Amendment
Answer: c) 42nd Amendment
83. Which feature in the Preamble emphasizes religious neutrality in India? [MCQ]
a) Socialist
b) Secular
c) Sovereign
d) Republic
Answer: b) Secular
84. The Supreme Court in which case remarked that the Preamble is a part of the basic structure of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) A.K. Gopalan Case
b) Minerva Mills Case
c) Maneka Gandhi Case
d) S.R. Bommai Case
Answer: b) Minerva Mills Case
85. In the context of the Preamble, the word “Republic” signifies: [MCQ]
a) The President is elected by the Parliament
b) The head of the state is elected, not hereditary
c) India is ruled by the military
d) India is part of the Commonwealth
Answer: b) The head of the state is elected, not hereditary
86. The phrase “We, the people of India” in the Preamble emphasizes the concept of: [MCQ]
a) Federalism
b) Sovereignty
c) Democratic governance
d) Popular sovereignty
Answer: d) Popular sovereignty
87. Which case first raised the question of whether the Preamble is a part of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Indira Nehru Gandhi v. Raj Narain Case
b) Golaknath Case
c) Berubari Union Case
d) S.R. Bommai Case
Answer: c) Berubari Union Case
88. In which of the following years was the 42nd Amendment that altered the Preamble passed? [MCQ]
a) 1975
b) 1976
c) 1977
d) 1978
Answer: b) 1976
89. The addition of “Unity and Integrity of the Nation” in the Preamble was meant to address concerns regarding: [MCQ]
a) Economic disparity
b) Social inequality
c) Regionalism and divisive tendencies
d) Caste discrimination
Answer: c) Regionalism and divisive tendencies
90. Which of the following goals is NOT explicitly stated in the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) Fraternity
b) Democracy
c) Economic welfare
d) Sovereignty
Answer: c) Economic welfare
91. Which of the following statements is true regarding the Preamble? [MCQ]
a) The Preamble is an enforceable part of the Constitution
b) The Preamble can be amended
c) The Preamble is non-amendable
d) The Preamble is not part of the Constitution
Answer: b) The Preamble can be amended
92. The “Fraternity” objective in the Preamble promotes: [MCQ]
a) Unity among states
b) Equality of all religions
c) Brotherly relations among citizens
d) A secular government
Answer: c) Brotherly relations among citizens
93. Which case reaffirmed that the Preamble plays a significant role in understanding the intent behind the provisions of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) S.R. Bommai Case
b) Maneka Gandhi Case
c) Golaknath Case
d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
Answer: d) Keshavananda Bharati Case
94. “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity” as mentioned in the Preamble are ideals inspired by: [MCQ]
a) Russian Revolution
b) French Revolution
c) American Revolution
d) Chinese Revolution
Answer: b) French Revolution
95. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution envisions India as a: [MCQ]
a) Religious state
b) Federal and unitary state
c) Welfare state
d) Monarchy
Answer: c) Welfare state
96. The Preamble’s goal of “social, economic, and political justice” is mainly achieved through which parts of the Constitution? [MCQ]
a) Part III and Part IV
b) Part II and Part V
c) Part I and Part VI
d) Part VII and Part VIII
Answer: a) Part III and Part IV
97. The Preamble is sometimes referred to as the “_____ of the Constitution.” [MCQ]
a) Key
b) Blueprint
c) Preface
d) Directive
Answer: c) Preface
98. The phrase “Unity and Integrity of the Nation” was added to the Preamble through which Constitutional Amendment? [MCQ]
a) 42nd Amendment
b) 44th Amendment
c) 25th Amendment
d) 45th Amendment
Answer: a) 42nd Amendment
99. “Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship” is guaranteed primarily under which fundamental right? [MCQ]
a) Right to Freedom
b) Right to Equality
c) Right against Exploitation
d) Right to Constitutional Remedies
Answer: a) Right to Freedom
100. The Preamble declares the Constitution to secure to all its citizens “justice, liberty, equality and fraternity.” These terms are inspired by which nation’s motto? [MCQ]
a) United States
b) United Kingdom
c) France
d) Canada
Answer: c) France
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is much more than a ceremonial introduction—it embodies the philosophy and vision that have shaped India’s democratic journey. By engaging with these multiple-choice questions, you not only solidify your understanding of the Preamble but also gain insight into how it reflects the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity in the Indian legal and political system.
We hope this collection of MCQs and answers has helped clarify the essential elements of the Preamble and will serve as a valuable resource in your study of the Indian Constitution. If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to share it with fellow learners, and feel free to explore more topics related to Indian Constitutional law on our blog!
FAQs on the Preamble of the Indian Constitution:
1. What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is a brief introductory statement that outlines the guiding values, principles, and objectives of the Constitution. It begins with the phrase “We, the people of India,” emphasizing the sovereignty of the Indian people and their collective will to form a democratic republic. The Preamble expresses India’s commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
2. What are the key values mentioned in the Preamble?
Answer: The key values mentioned in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution include:
- Justice (Social, Economic, and Political)
- Liberty (of Thought, Expression, Belief, Faith, and Worship)
- Equality (of Status and Opportunity)
- Fraternity (Assuring the Dignity of the Individual and the Unity and Integrity of the Nation)
3. Does the Preamble have legal significance?
Answer: While the Preamble itself is not justiciable (it cannot be directly enforced in courts), it has great interpretative value. It serves as a guiding light for interpreting the Constitution and its provisions. The Supreme Court of India has referred to the Preamble in several landmark cases to understand the intent and philosophy behind constitutional provisions.
4. What does “We, the people of India” signify in the Preamble?
Answer: The phrase “We, the people of India” signifies the sovereignty of the Indian populace and their collective will in drafting and enacting the Constitution. It emphasizes that the authority of the Constitution comes from the people, and not from any external authority.
5. What is the significance of the words “Sovereign”, “Secular”, “Democratic”, “Republic” in the Preamble?
Answer: The words “Sovereign”, “Secular”, “Democratic”, and “Republic” in the Preamble define the nature of the Indian state:
- Sovereign: India is independent and not subject to any foreign control.
- Secular: India does not recognize any state religion and guarantees religious freedom to all its citizens.
- Democratic: The government is formed through elections, reflecting the will of the people.
- Republic: India has an elected head of state, not a monarchy.
6. How does the Preamble reflect the social and political goals of India?
Answer: The Preamble envisions a society and state committed to ensuring social justice, equality, and freedom for all citizens. It aims to eliminate social inequalities and foster a society where every individual is provided with equal opportunities regardless of their social, economic, or political background. By upholding these values, the Preamble sets the tone for the Constitution’s substantive provisions.
7. Can the Preamble be amended?
Answer: Yes, the Preamble can be amended, but any amendment must be in accordance with the constitutional framework. The 42nd Amendment in 1976, for example, added the words “Socialist,” “Secular,” and “Integrity” to the Preamble to reflect the evolving goals of the Indian state.