Notes Class 7 Chapter 1 Civics Maharashtra Board

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.