Literature
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment: Adding Integrity to the Indian Preamble
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment: Adding 'Integrity' to the Indian Preamble
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution holds immense significance as it reflects the core values and principles upon which the Indian republic is built. In a significant constitutional change, the term 'integrity' was added to the Preamble through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment in 1976. This change was part of a series of amendments made during the Indira Gandhi regime, expanding the Preamble to include 'Socialist' and 'Secular' as well.
The Context of the 42nd Constitutional Amendment
The 42nd Amendment to the Indian Constitution was one of the most extensive legislative changes ever made in the country's history. It was adopted in 1976 under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, making significant changes to the Constitution. The impetus behind this amendment was rooted in two major events of that time: the state of emergency declared in 1975 and the lack of proper implementation of the previous constitutional provisions.
What was Added to the Preamble?
The 42nd Amendment added three new words to the preamble: 'Socialist', 'Secular', and 'integrity'. These additions were strategically placed to emphasize the government's intentions to establish a secular, socialist, and integrated nation. Each word carries a profound meaning and represents a critical value:
Socialist: Emphasizes the economic and social policies that aim to reduce economic disparities and promote social justice. Secular: Denotes the commitment to uphold religious neutrality and protect religious freedom for all citizens. Integrity: Represents the character, values, and principles that should guide the actions of individuals and the state.Implications of the Changes in the Preamble
The addition of 'integrity' in the Preamble aimed to enhance the moral and ethical framework of the nation. It underscores the need for every citizen and the state to act with honesty, transparency, and fairness. Furthermore, the Preamble's expansion to include socialist and secular principles reflects the government's strategic intent to build a more inclusive and just society. These changes were not merely symbolic but were designed to guide the operations of the government, the judiciary, and every individual in the society.
Historical Significance
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment stands as a landmark in India's constitutional history. It marked a shift from the previous liberal and parliamentary tendencies to a more centralized and socialist orientation. This period was marked by the state's increasing intervention in the socio-economic life of the country and a move towards centralized planning and control.
Conclusion
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment, particularly the addition of 'integrity' to the Preamble, was a defining moment in shaping the modern Indian Constitution. It reflects the aspirations of the nation for a society that is socially just, economically inclusive, and ethically strong. For students of Indian constitutional history and for those interested in understanding the evolution of the Constitution, this amendment remains a pivotal point.