Sources of the Indian Constitution
Although the basic framework (skeleton) of the Constitution of India was derived from the Government of India Act, 1935, several important features were borrowed from the Constitutions of different countries. These borrowed provisions were carefully adapted to suit the Indian political and administrative system.
Government of India Act, 1935
Structural Framework
The Government of India Act, 1935 served as the Blueprint (Foundation) of the Indian Constitution. Major features adopted include:
- Federal Structure
- Office of the Governor
- Emergency Provisions
- Administrative Framework
Constitution of Britain (United Kingdom)
Parliamentary Traditions
India adopted several features from the British Constitution, including:
- Rule of Law
- Parliamentary System of Government
- Law-making (Legislative) Procedure
- Single Citizenship
- Bicameral Legislature
- Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG)
Constitution of the United States of America (USA)
Democratic & Constitutional Features
The following provisions were borrowed from the U.S. Constitution:
- Independence of the Judiciary
- Judicial Review
- Fundamental Rights
- Preamble
- Impeachment/Removal Procedure of Supreme Court & High Court Judges
- Functions of the President and Vice-President
Constitution of Canada
Federal Features
India adopted the following features from the Canadian Constitution:
- Federal System with a Strong Centre
- Residuary Powers vested in the Centre
- Advisory Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court
Constitution of Ireland
Constitutional Principles
The following provisions were inspired by the Irish Constitution:
- Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs)
- Method of Presidential Election
- Nomination of Members to the Rajya Sabha by the President
Weimar Constitution of Germany
Emergency Provisions
The following feature was borrowed from the Weimar Constitution:
- Suspension of Fundamental Rights during a National Emergency
Constitution of Australia
Federal Legislative Features
India borrowed the following from the Australian Constitution:
- Concurrent List
- Freedom of Trade and Commerce
Constitution of South Africa
Constitutional Amendment & Representation
The following provisions were adopted from the South African Constitution:
- Amendment of the Constitution by a Two-Thirds Majority in Parliament
- Election of Rajya Sabha Members through the System of Proportional Representation
Constitution of France
Republican Ideals
The following ideals were inspired by the French Constitution:
- Republican Form of Government
- Principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity
Constitution of the Former USSR
Social & Constitutional Values
The following features were borrowed from the Constitution of the Former USSR:
- Fundamental Duties
- Ideals of Social, Economic, and Political Justice reflected in the Preamble.