The case of Dr. Balram Singh and Others vs Union of India and Another (2024) raised a significant constitutional question regarding the inclusion of the terms “secular” and “socialist” in the Preamble of the Constitution. The petitioners contested the legitimacy of these words, arguing that they were not part of the original Constitution and imposed limitations on government policy.
The Supreme Court upheld the validity of the 42nd Amendment, which introduced these terms during the Emergency in 1976. The ruling asserted that “secular” and “socialist” are essential components of the Constitution, reinforcing India's commitment to equality and the establishment of a welfare state.
The addition of “secular” and “socialist” to the Preamble aimed to underscore India's dedication to religious equality and social justice. Secularism emphasizes respect for all religions, while socialism focuses on the pursuit of economic and social welfare for all citizens.
The petitioners argued that the framers of the Constitution intentionally left out these terms. They claimed that including them retrospectively distorted the original intent and curtailed the policy flexibility of elected governments.
The Court defended the inclusion of these terms by stating that the Constitution functions as a “living document,” which adapts to societal changes. It affirmed that the amendment made under Article 368 was valid and that the terms enhanced the constitutional ethos of India.
In the Indian context, secularism ensures that the state neither endorses nor opposes any religion. It guarantees freedom of conscience and equal rights to practice, propagate, and profess any faith, as articulated in Articles 25 to 28 of the Constitution.
Socialism in India’s Constitution reflects a mixed economy model, aimed at reducing inequality and promoting social welfare. It strives to provide equal opportunities, prevent exploitation, and support private entrepreneurship.
This ruling is vital as it reiterates that amendments to the Preamble do not compromise the Constitution’s basic structure. Rather, they embody the evolving societal values of India, including justice, equality, and fraternity. The Court emphasized that “Justice thrives when constitutional ideals are upheld as beacons of equality and progress.”
Q1. What was the main argument in Dr. Balram Singh's case?
Answer: The main argument was against the inclusion of "secular" and "socialist" in the Preamble, claiming they were not part of the original Constitution and restricted governance.
Q2. How did the Supreme Court respond to the arguments?
Answer: The Supreme Court upheld the 42nd Amendment, asserting that the terms are integral to the Constitution and reflect India's commitment to equality and welfare.
Q3. Why were "secular" and "socialist" added to the Preamble?
Answer: These terms were added during the Emergency in 1976 to emphasize India's commitment to religious equality and social justice for all citizens.
Q4. What does secularism mean in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: Secularism in India ensures that the state maintains neutrality towards all religions, guaranteeing freedom of conscience and equal rights for all faiths.
Q5. What is the significance of the Supreme Court's ruling?
Answer: The ruling reinforces that amendments to the Preamble reflect India's evolving values and do not undermine the Constitution's basic structure.
Question 1: What was the primary issue in Dr. Balram Singh vs Union of India?
A) Inclusion of "secular" and "socialist" in the Preamble
B) Definition of fundamental rights
C) Powers of the Supreme Court
D) Role of the President
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: When were "secular" and "socialist" added to the Preamble?
A) 1947
B) 1976
C) 1982
D) 1992
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What does secularism guarantee in India?
A) Endorsement of one religion
B) Freedom of religion
C) Prioritization of certain faiths
D) Government control over religions
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: What does socialism aim to achieve in India?
A) Complete government control
B) Economic equality
C) Elimination of private property
D) Encouragement of monopolies
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is the significance of the 42nd Amendment ruling?
A) It restricts government powers
B) It affirms the Constitution's basic structure
C) It ignores societal changes
D) It prioritizes individual rights over collective rights
Correct Answer: B
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