Notes Class 7 Chapter 1 Civics Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – Civics Class 7

Introduction to our Constitution

1. Introduction

• Rules and norms help in organizing life in families, schools, villages, cities, and even countries.
• While families follow customs and norms, schools and local governance have specific rules.
• The administration of a country is carried out based on rules and laws that are more comprehensive and apply to everyone.
• These rules are documented in a special book called the Constitution.

2. Meaning of the Constitution

• A Constitution is a written document that contains all the rules and provisions regarding the administration of a country.
• It is the fundamental law that the government must follow.
• If the government makes any law against the Constitution, the Judiciary can declare it null and void (invalid).

3. Provisions in the Constitution

The Constitution contains provisions about:

✔ Citizenship – Who is a citizen of the country and their rights.
✔ Rights of citizens – Fundamental Rights that every citizen is entitled to.
✔ Relationship between citizens and the State – Duties and responsibilities of citizens and the government.
✔ Subjects of laws – Areas in which the government can make laws.
✔ Elections – Process of electing representatives in a democracy.
✔ Government restrictions – Limits on government power to prevent misuse.
✔ Jurisdiction of the State – The areas where the State has authority.

• Different countries have different Constitutions depending on their history, culture, and needs.

4. Necessity of a Constitution

Having a Constitution provides several advantages:

• Prevents misuse of power – Governments must function within rules, reducing the possibility of corruption or dictatorship.
• Protects citizens’ rights and freedoms – The government cannot take away the rights of the people.
• Ensures rule of law – No one is above the law, and all citizens are treated equally.
• Increases people’s trust in government – Citizens feel more involved and participate in democracy.
• Guides national policies and goals – Helps in achieving justice, peace, and human rights.
• Defines citizens’ duties – Ensures that people contribute positively to society.

5. Administration of a Country

The government makes laws on various subjects such as:

• Defense and security
• Education and employment
• Healthcare and sanitation
• Protection of weaker sections (women, children, and tribal communities)
• conomic development (trade, industries, etc.)
• pace research and environmental policies
• Implementing these laws ensures the smooth governance of the country.

6. Background to the Making of the Indian Constitution

• The process of making the Indian Constitution began in 1946.
• The leaders of the freedom movement wanted Independent India to be governed by laws made by Indians and not the British.
• A special committee was formed to draft the Constitution, called the Constituent Assembly.

7. The Constituent Assembly

• India became independent on 15th August 1947.
• Before independence, British India was divided into provinces (like Bombay, Bengal) and princely states (ruled by local kings).
• Representatives from provinces and princely states were included in the Constituent Assembly.
• The Assembly had 299 members, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad was its President.

7.1 Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar – The Architect of the Indian Constitution

• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee.
• He deeply studied the Constitutions of different countries to create the best Constitution for India.
• He presented the draft Constitution, answered questions, and made necessary changes to ensure it was flawless.
• Due to his enormous contribution, he is known as the ‘Architect of the Indian Constitution’.

8. Formation and Adoption of the Constitution

• The drafting of the Constitution took 2 years, 11 months, and 17 days.
• The final Constitution had:
  ✔ 22 Parts
  ✔395 Articles
  ✔ 8 Schedules
• The Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949, which is now celebrated as Constitution Day.
• The Constitution came into force on 26th January 1950, marking the beginning of the Republic of India.
• 26th January is celebrated as Republic Day.

9. Important Personalities in the Making of the Constitution

Some important members of the Constituent Assembly:

• Dr. Rajendra Prasad – President of the Constituent Assembly
• Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar – Chairman of the Drafting Committee
• Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad
• Sarojini Naidu
• J. B. Kripalani
• Rajkumari Amrit Kaur
• Durgabai Deshmukh
• Hansaben Mehta

Additionally, B. N. Rau was the Constitutional Adviser who provided legal guidance.