The Objectives Resolution, moved by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly on December 13, 1946, served as the philosophical bedrock upon which the Preamble of the Indian Constitution was built. It outlined the fundamental principles and objectives that the Constitution sought to achieve, and its influence on the drafting of the Preamble is undeniable.
Here’s a detailed analysis of this influence from the UPSC CSE exam point of view:
1. Setting the Philosophical Foundation:
- The Objectives Resolution articulated the vision of a free and independent India, outlining the core values that would guide the nation. It declared India’s resolve to constitute itself into an Independent Sovereign Republic, emphasizing popular sovereignty and self-determination. This vision was directly reflected in the Preamble, which declares India to be a “Sovereign Democratic Republic.”
- The Resolution proclaimed justice, social, economic, and political; equality of status, of opportunity, and before the law; and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith,1 worship, vocation, association, and action, subject to law and public morality. These2 ideals were directly incorporated into the Preamble, which secures justice, liberty, and equality for all citizens.
2. Guiding the Drafting Process:
- The Objectives Resolution provided a clear direction to the Drafting Committee, led by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, in formulating the specific provisions of the Constitution. It served as a touchstone for ensuring that the various articles and clauses aligned with the overall philosophy and objectives of the nation.
- The Resolution’s emphasis on justice, equality, and fraternity influenced the inclusion of fundamental rights and directive principles of state policy in the Constitution, which aim to translate these abstract ideals into concrete rights and obligations.
3. Shaping the Language and Structure:
- The language and structure of the Objectives Resolution heavily influenced the drafting of the Preamble. The Preamble’s concise and evocative language, which encapsulates the essence of the Constitution, can be traced back to the Resolution’s powerful pronouncements.
- The Resolution’s focus on the people of India as the source of authority is reflected in the Preamble’s opening words, “We, the People of India,” which emphasize popular sovereignty.
4. Resolving Contentious Issues:
- The Objectives Resolution helped to build consensus among the diverse members of the Constituent Assembly on fundamental principles, even amidst differing viewpoints on specific issues. It provided a common ground for navigating contentious debates and arriving at compromises.
- For instance, while there were debates on the inclusion of the term “socialist” in the Preamble, the Resolution’s emphasis on economic and social justice paved the way for its eventual inclusion in 1976.
5. Long-Term Impact:
- The Objectives Resolution, through its influence on the Preamble, has had a lasting impact on the interpretation and implementation of the Constitution. The Preamble serves as a guiding light for the judiciary, legislature, and executive, ensuring that their actions are in line with the core values and objectives of the nation.
- The Resolution’s emphasis on justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity continues to inspire social and political movements aimed at achieving a more just and equitable society.
In conclusion, the Objectives Resolution was not merely a statement of intent but a foundational document that profoundly influenced the drafting of the Preamble and the overall philosophy of the Indian Constitution. It provided a clear vision for a newly independent India and continues to guide the nation towards achieving its cherished ideals.