Class 11 Polity Chapter 1: How was the Indian Constitution made?

The Indian Constitution, the bedrock of the world’s largest democracy, was meticulously crafted through a collaborative effort. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of how the Indian Constitution was made.

How was the Indian Constitution made?

The Indian Constitution was formulated by the Constituent Assembly, initially convened for undivided India. Its first session took place on December 9, 1946, and it reconvened as the Constituent Assembly for divided India on August 14, 1947. Assembly members were chosen through indirect election by members of the Provincial Legislative Assemblies established under the Government of India Act, 1935. The composition of the Constituent Assembly largely followed the plan outlined by the British Cabinet Mission.

Key aspects of the plan included:

• Allocation of seats to each Province and Princely State or group of States based on their respective populations, roughly in a ratio of 1:10,00,000. Provinces under direct British rule were to elect 292 members, while Princely States were allocated a minimum of 93 seats.
• Distribution of seats in each Province among the main communities (Muslims, Sikhs, and general) in proportion to their populations.
• Members of each community in the Provincial Legislative Assembly elected their representatives using proportional representation with a single transferable vote.
• The method of selecting representatives from Princely States was to be determined through consultation.

This process aimed to ensure representation from various regions and communities, laying the foundation for the democratic development of the Indian Constitution.

Formation and Composition

The Constituent Assembly, entrusted with the monumental task of drafting the Constitution, convened for the first time on December 9, 1946.

Originally intended for undivided India, it reconvened on August 14, 1947, following the partition.

Electoral Process

Members of the Constituent Assembly were not directly elected by the populace but rather selected through an indirect electoral process.

Provincial Legislative Assemblies, established under the Government of India Act, 1935, played a pivotal role in this selection process.

Representation and Allocation of Seats

The allocation of seats in the Constituent Assembly was based on a proportional representation system.

Each province and princely state, or group of states, were allocated seats relative to their population size, with a rough ratio of 1:10,00,000.

Communal Representation

To ensure fair representation, seats within each province were distributed among the three main communities: Muslims, Sikhs, and the general population.

This allocation was proportional to each community’s respective population, fostering inclusivity in the assembly.

Method of Selection

Members of each community in the Provincial Legislative Assembly elected their representatives through the method of proportional representation with single transferable vote.

This democratic process aimed to reflect the diverse voices of the Indian populace.

Princely States’ Representation

Incorporating the princely states into the constitutional process required careful consideration.

The method of selecting representatives from these states was determined through consultation, ensuring their inclusion in the assembly.

Conclusion

The making of the Indian Constitution was a remarkable feat of collective endeavor and visionary leadership. Through meticulous planning, inclusive representation, and democratic principles, the Constituent Assembly laid the foundation for a vibrant and progressive nation.

Today, the Indian Constitution stands as a beacon of democracy and social justice, embodying the aspirations of millions and serving as a testament to the power of unity in diversity.

How was the Indian Constitution made?- FAQs

How was the Constituent Assembly formed?

The Constituent Assembly was formed through an indirect electoral process, with members selected by Provincial Legislative Assemblies established under the Government of India Act, 1935.

What was the composition of the Constituent Assembly?

The assembly comprised representatives from provinces and princely states, allocated seats based on population size and communal representation, ensuring inclusivity among various communities.

What was the electoral method used in selecting members?

Members of the Constituent Assembly were elected through a proportional representation system with a single transferable vote, allowing for diverse voices to be heard in the constitutional drafting process.

How were seats distributed among different communities?

Seats within each province were distributed among Muslims, Sikhs, and the general population in proportion to their respective populations, promoting equitable representation.

How were representatives from Princely States chosen?

The method of selecting representatives from Princely States was determined through consultation, ensuring their participation in the constitutional process and fostering national unity.