by Jawaharlal Nehru, as the first Prime Minister of India and a visionary leader of the Indian freedom movement, played a pivotal role in shaping the Indian Constitution. His leadership, vision, and contributions influenced the constitutional framework that laid the foundation for a democratic, secular, and inclusive India.
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Chairmanship of Key Committees:
Nehru was a member of the Constituent Assembly and chaired important committees, including the Union Powers Committee and the States Committee. These committees were instrumental in defining the structure of governance and the distribution of powers between the Union and the states. His leadership ensured a strong and centralized framework that balanced regional autonomy with national unity.
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Objective Resolution:
On December 13, 1946, Nehru introduced the Objective Resolution, which outlined the philosophical foundation and aspirations of the Constitution. This resolution emphasized sovereignty, justice, equality, liberty, and fraternity, encapsulating the vision for an independent India. The Objective Resolution later became the guiding principle for the drafting of the Preamble.
- Vision for a Secular State:
Nehru was a staunch advocate of secularism and worked to ensure that the Constitution upheld the principle of religious neutrality. He believed in fostering unity in diversity and was instrumental in embedding secularism as a core value of the Indian state, ensuring equal rights and protections for all religions.
- Advocacy for Social Justice:
Nehru emphasized social and economic justice in the constitutional framework. His vision guided provisions for affirmative action, particularly for marginalized sections such as Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and women. His approach aimed at reducing inequalities and promoting inclusivity.
- Commitment to Democracy:
As a firm believer in democracy, Nehru influenced the adoption of a parliamentary system of governance. He ensured that the Constitution upheld democratic values like universal adult suffrage, free and fair elections, and the accountability of representatives to the people.
- Focus on Fundamental Rights:
Nehru strongly advocated for the inclusion of fundamental rights in the Constitution to protect individual freedoms and dignity. He believed that the rights to equality, freedom of expression, and religious liberty were essential for building a just and progressive society.
- Role in Economic Planning:
Nehru’s socialist inclinations shaped provisions in the Directive Principles of State Policy, which advocate for economic justice and welfare. These principles, though non-justiciable, serve as a guiding framework for governance and development policies.
- Influence on Internationalism:
Nehru’s exposure to global ideologies and constitutions brought an international perspective to the Indian Constitution. His ideas inspired the incorporation of progressive principles and global values of human rights and justice.
- Building Consensus:
Nehru played a key role in maintaining harmony and resolving conflicts within the Constituent Assembly. His diplomatic skills and persuasive leadership ensured consensus on critical issues, facilitating the smooth drafting of the Constitution.
- Emphasis on Education and Scientific Temper:
Nehru’s vision extended to creating a Constitution that fostered education and a scientific outlook among citizens. This emphasis is reflected in the Directive Principles and other constitutional provisions aimed at promoting enlightenment and progress.
- Role in Shaping the Preamble:
Nehru’s philosophical and political ideas were central to the drafting of the Preamble, which reflects the core values of the Constitution. The ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity owe much to his influence.
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Symbol of Nation-Building:
Nehru’s role went beyond technical contributions. As a symbol of India’s aspirations, he inspired the Constituent Assembly to frame a Constitution that balanced tradition with modernity, regional interests with national priorities, and individual rights with collective welfare.
