Describe the salient features of indian constitution.

Question: Describe the salient features of indian constitution.

The Indian Constitution is renowned for its comprehensive and detailed nature. Here are some of its salient features:

1. Lengthiest Written Constitution

The Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world. It includes detailed provisions covering various aspects of governance and administration.

2. Drawn from Various Sources

The Constitution incorporates elements from various other constitutions around the world, including the British, American, Canadian, and Irish constitutions. This blend ensures it is well-rounded and adaptable.

3. Blend of Rigidity and Flexibility

While some parts of the Constitution can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, others require a special majority and, in some cases, ratification by at least half of the state legislatures. This balance allows the Constitution to be both stable and adaptable.

4. Federal System with Unitary Bias

India is a federal country with a strong central government. The Constitution divides powers between the central and state governments but allows the central government to assert more control in certain situations, such as during emergencies.

5. Parliamentary Form of Government

India follows a parliamentary system of government where the executive is responsible to the legislature. This system ensures a close relationship between the legislative and executive branches.

6. Integrated and Independent Judiciary

The judiciary in India is independent of the executive and legislative branches. It has the power to review laws and ensure they are in accordance with the Constitution.

7. Fundamental Rights

The Constitution guarantees certain fundamental rights to all citizens, such as the right to equality, freedom, and protection against exploitation. These rights are enforceable by the courts.

8. Directive Principles of State Policy

These principles guide the state in making policies and laws. Although they are not enforceable by the courts, they are considered fundamental in the governance of the country.

9. Fundamental Duties

The Constitution also lists the duties of citizens, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and national integrity.

10. Secularism

India is a secular state, meaning there is no official state religion. The Constitution ensures equal treatment of all religions by the state.

11. Universal Adult Franchise

Every citizen of India who is 18 years or older has the right to vote, ensuring a democratic process where the government is elected by the people.

12. Single Citizenship

Unlike some federal countries, India provides for single citizenship, meaning all citizens are citizens of India, regardless of the state in which they reside.

These features make the Indian Constitution a robust framework for governance, ensuring democracy, justice, and equality.