Q3.Consider the following statements about the Preamble of the Indian Constitution:
- It states the source of authority for the Constitution.
- It declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
- It cannot be amended under any circumstances.
- It provides the ideals that were to guide the Constitution makers.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: A [1, 2 and 4 only]
Explanation:Statement 1 is correct: The Preamble begins with the words “We, the people of India,” which clearly indicate that the ultimate source of authority of the Constitution lies with the people. It reflects the principle of popular sovereignty in a democratic polity.
Statement 2 is correct: The Preamble explicitly declares India to be a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic. These terms define the nature of the Indian state, its independence from external control, commitment to social justice, religious neutrality, democratic governance, and republican form of government.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Preamble can be amended under Article 368 of the Constitution. In the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), the Supreme Court held that the Preamble is part of the Constitution and can be amended, provided its basic structure is not violated.
Statement 4 is correct: The Preamble embodies the ideals, objectives, and philosophical foundations that guided the Constitution makers. It sets out the core values such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, which serve as guiding principles for constitutional interpretation and governance.