Question

"India was made up of several different communities who spoke languages belonged to different religions and had distinct cultures".
How did the constituent assembly prepare the constitution while maintaining the respect for diversity and preserving unity?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

The members of the Constituent Assembly had a huge task before them. People in India spoke different languages, belonged to different religions, and had distinct cultures. Keeping in mind these, and various other factors relevant to that period of time, the Constituent Assembly prepared the constitution while maintaining the respect for diversity and preserving unity, through the following:

1. Federalism - A system of three-tier government (Centre/Union level, State level and Local level) was put in place, so that decisions could be made for a particular area and for the entire nation as well, depending on the issue.
2. Parliamentary Form of Government - The people of India were assured a direct role in electing their representatives, with the guarantee of universal adult suffrage for all adult citizens.
3. Separation of Powers - The Constitution separates the three organs of the Government - The Legislature, The Executive and The Judiciary, which exercise different powers. This acts as a power-checking mechanism and ensures balance of power.
4. Fundamental Rights - These protect citizens against the arbitrary and absolute exercise of power by the State. Right to Equality, Right to Freedom, Right against Exploitation, Right to Freedom of Religion, Cultural and Educational Rights and Right to Constitutional Remedies are the six basic fundamental rights guaranteed to the citizens.
5. Secularism - In a secular state, the state does not promote any one religion as the state religion for all citizens. Religious freedom is practised and promoted.

Regards.