Fundamental Structure of the Indian Constitution

Fundamental Structure of the Indian Constitution

• The Indian Constitution defines its fundamental structure through four key principles: federalism, secularism, fundamental rights, and democracy.
• Federalism is emphasized by the division of power between the central government and state governments, promoting a balance between central authority and regional autonomy.
• Secularism ensures the neutrality of the state towards religion, guaranteeing freedom of religion for all citizens, while also prohibiting the state from endorsing or favoring a specific faith.
• Fundamental rights are enshrined within the Constitution, guaranteeing essential freedoms to all citizens, including rights to equality, freedom of speech, and freedom of religion.
• Democracy, as a foundational principle, ensures that political power rests with the people, allowing for the free participation of citizens in the political process through fair and regular elections, promoting accountability and representation.

Safeguarding the Constitution

• The Indian Constitution ensures the protection of its foundational principles and the freedom of its citizens through the mechanism of judicial review.
• Judicial review grants the Supreme Court of India the power to examine laws and government actions for their compliance with the Constitution.
• This essential power empowers the judiciary to strike down any laws or actions deemed inconsistent with the constitutionally enshrined fundamental rights and principles, acting as a guardian of the Constitution's core values.
• The Supreme Court's role in upholding the Constitution's fundamental structure through judicial review ensures that the principles of federalism, secularism, fundamental rights, and democracy remain protected, safeguarding individual freedoms and the rule of law.

Explore the key principles that define the fundamental structure of the Indian Constitution, including federalism, secularism, fundamental rights, and democracy. Understand how these principles create a balanced and fair system of governance, ensuring the rights of citizens and the neutrality of the state.