The term ‘preamble’ refers to the introduction or preface to the Constitution.
It consists of the ideals, objectives and basic principles of the Constitution.
It contains the summary or essence of the Constitution.
It has great value and has been described as the ‘key to the Constitution’.
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is based on the ‘Objective Resolution’, drafted by Jawaharlal Nehru, which was adopted by the Constituent Assembly on January 22, 1947.
It has been amended once by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976, which added three new words – socialist, secular and integrity.
The Preamble begins with the phrase
‘We, the People of India’. This clearly implies that the Constitution derives its authority from the People of India. Thus, we can say that the people of India are the source of our Constitution.
The Preamble of our Constitution states that India is a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic. Its aim is to secure to all Indian citizens Social, economic and political justice.
The Constitution guarantees Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship to all.
It gives Equality of status and of opportunity to all.
It wants to promote Fraternity among all Indians.
