PartTitleArticle / ScheduleTitleIIIFundamental Rights13Laws inconsistent with or in derogation of the fundamental rights15Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth21ARight to education
[Inserted by the 86th Amendment in December, 2002 and passed by the Parliament in July, 2009. The provisions of the Act came into force from 1st April, 2010]28Freedom as to attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions30Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions

The Indian constitution, which came into effect on January 26, 1950, is a comprehensive document that lays down the framework for the political philosophy of India. It is guided by several core provisions that embody the principles of democracy, justice, equality, and secularism. These provisions are aimed at establishing a just and inclusive society and maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation.

1. Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic:
- The Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India to be a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic.
- Sovereignty vests in the people of India, who have the power to elect their representatives and make decisions through democratic processes.
- The constitution upholds the principles of socialism and aims to eliminate inequalities in society through the equitable distribution of resources.
- India is a secular country, guaranteeing religious freedom and maintaining a separation between religion and the state.

2. Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy:
- The constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, including the right to equality, freedom of speech and expression, and protection against discrimination.
- It also outlines Directive Principles of State Policy, which provide guidelines for the government to promote social justice, economic welfare, and the overall well-being of the people.

3. Federal Structure:
- The Indian constitution establishes a federal structure, with a division of powers between the central government and the states.
- It provides for a dual polity, where both the central and state governments have their own spheres of authority and responsibilities.

4. Fundamental Duties:
- The constitution includes a list of fundamental duties that are expected to be followed by every citizen.
- These duties include respecting the ideals of the constitution, promoting harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood, and protecting the environment.

5. Independent Judiciary:
- The constitution establishes an independent judiciary as a guardian of the constitution and protector of individual rights.
- The judiciary has the power of judicial review, which allows it to strike down any law or government action that violates the constitution.

6. Universal Adult Suffrage and Reserved Seats:
- The constitution provides for universal adult suffrage, ensuring that every citizen above the age of 18 has the right to vote.
- It also includes provisions for reserved seats in the legislature and government jobs to promote social justice and uplift marginalized sections of society.

7. Right to Education:
- The constitution recognizes education as a fundamental right for all children between the ages of 6 and 14.
- It mandates the state to provide free and compulsory education to ensure equal opportunities for all.

8. Protection of Minority Rights:
- The constitution guarantees various rights to religious and linguistic minorities, including the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.
- It prohibits discrimination based on religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

Overall, the political philosophy of the Indian constitution is rooted in democracy, justice, equality, secularism, and social welfare. It seeks to create a society that is inclusive, progressive, and respects the rights and dignity of every individual.