Worksheet Solutions: Constitution: Why and How? | Political Science Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks 

Q1: A Constitution is a set of fundamental ____________ that govern a country.
Ans: rules and principles
A constitution comprises fundamental rules and principles that define the structure of government and the rights and duties of citizens.

Q2: The Indian Constitution is often referred to as a "____________ Document."
Ans: Living Document
The Indian Constitution is called a "Living Document" because it can be amended and changed to adapt to evolving circumstances.

Q3: The authority of a Constitution derives from its recognition as the highest legal ____________ in a country.
Ans: authority
A constitution serves as the highest legal authority in a nation, and its provisions are legally binding.

Q4: The Indian Constitution was adopted on ____________ January 1950.
Ans: 26th
January 26, 1950, is the date on which the Indian Constitution was formally adopted, marking the transition to a republic.

Q5: The Constituent Assembly took approximately ____________ years to draft the Indian Constitution.
Ans: three
The Constituent Assembly of India worked for about two years to draft the Indian Constitution.

Q6: The fundamental commitments of the Indian Constitution include equality, liberty, democracy, sovereignty, and a cosmopolitan ____________.
Ans: cosmopolitan identity
The Indian Constitution upholds fundamental commitments such as equality, liberty, democracy, sovereignty, and a cosmopolitan identity, which means a commitment to diverse and inclusive principles.

Q7: The Indian Constitution is the world's largest ____________ constitution.
Ans: written
The Indian Constitution is the world's largest written constitution, meaning it is recorded in a formal document.
 
Q8: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution begins with "We the ____________."
Ans: People
The Preamble of the Indian Constitution starts with the phrase "We the People," indicating that the authority of the Constitution emanates from the citizens.

Q9: The concept of suspension of fundamental rights during an emergency rule was borrowed from the ____________ Constitution.
Ans: Weimar
The Indian Constitution borrowed the concept of suspending fundamental rights during emergencies from the Weimar Constitution of Germany.

Q10: The original copies of the Indian Constitution are kept in special helium-filled cases in the Library of the Parliament of ____________.
Ans: India
The original copies of the Indian Constitution are preserved in helium-filled cases in the Library of the Parliament of India to prevent deterioration.

Match the Column

Q1: Match the terms on the left with their corresponding descriptions on the right.

Ans:

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: The Indian Constitution is often referred to as a "Living Document."
Reason: It can be changed easily without any restrictions.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Both the assertion and reason are false.
Ans: (c)

• Assertion: The Indian Constitution is often referred to as a "Living Document."
  This is true because the Indian Constitution is dynamic and adapts to changing social, economic, and political circumstances through amendments.

• Reason: It can be changed easily without any restrictions.
  This is false because the amendment process in India is not "easy." The Constitution provides for a detailed procedure under Article 368, which includes different types of amendments—some require a simple majority, others require a special majority, and some need ratification by half of the state legislatures. This ensures that changes are made with deliberation and consensus, not arbitrarily.

Q2: Assertion: The Indian Constitution draws its authority from the fact that members of the Constituent Assembly engaged in public reason.
Reason: The Constituent Assembly debated every clause of the Constitution extensively.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Both the assertion and reason are false.
Ans: (a)

• Assertion: The Indian Constitution draws its authority from the fact that members of the Constituent Assembly engaged in public reason.
  This is true because the Constitution was drafted through rational discussions and inclusive debates, ensuring that it represented the diverse aspirations of the people.
• Reason: The Constituent Assembly debated every clause of the Constitution extensively.
  This is true because the Constituent Assembly meticulously examined and deliberated on each provision, engaging in lengthy discussions to ensure the robustness and legitimacy of the Constitution.

Q3: Assertion: The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th January 1950 to commemorate Purna Swaraj.
Reason: Purna Swaraj was officially demanded by Congress in Lahore session 1929.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Both the assertion and reason are false.
Ans: (a)

• Assertion: The Indian Constitution was adopted on 26th January 1950 to commemorate Purna Swaraj.
  This is true because 26th January was chosen as the date to honor the historic significance of the Purna Swaraj declaration, which symbolized India's resolve for complete independence.
• Reason: Purna Swaraj was officially demanded by Congress in Lahore session 1929.
  This is true because the Indian National Congress, during its Lahore session in December 1929, passed the resolution for Purna Swaraj (complete independence), and 26th January 1930 was observed as the first Independence Day.

Q4: Assertion: The Indian Constitution is a "borrowed bag."
Reason: It has borrowed provisions from the constitutions of various other countries.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.
(c) The assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Both the assertion and reason are false.
Ans: (a)

• Assertion: The Indian Constitution is a "borrowed bag."
  This is true because the Indian Constitution incorporates features and provisions inspired by the constitutions of various countries to suit India's unique needs and context.
• Reason: It has borrowed provisions from the constitutions of various other countries.
  This is true because the Indian Constitution adopted principles like parliamentary democracy from the British Constitution, fundamental rights from the U.S. Constitution, directive principles from the Irish Constitution, and many other features from various nations.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What are the fundamental commitments of the Indian Constitution?
Ans: The fundamental commitments of the Indian Constitution include equality, liberty, democracy, sovereignty, and a cosmopolitan identity.

Q2: Why is the Indian Constitution often referred to as a "Living Document"?
Ans: The Indian Constitution is referred to as a "Living Document" because it is flexible and can be amended to address changing times and circumstances.

Q3: Who was the first President of the Constituent Assembly of India?
Ans: Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha was the first President (temporary Chairman) of the Constituent Assembly when it met on 9 December 1946.

Q4: What is the significance of 26th January 1950 in the context of the Indian Constitution?
Ans: January 26, 1950, is the date on which the Indian Constitution was formally adopted, marking the transition to a republic.

Q5: What is the role of the Preamble in a constitution?
Ans: The Preamble of a constitution provides an introduction and sets out the guiding values and objectives of the constitution.

Q6: Which country's constitution had a significant influence on the concept of "procedure established by law" in the Indian Constitution?
Ans: The concept of "procedure established by law" in the Indian Constitution was influenced by the Constitution of Japan.

Q7: How long did the Constituent Assembly of India take to complete the Indian Constitution?
Ans: The Constituent Assembly of India worked for approximately two years, eleven months, and eighteen days to complete the Indian Constitution.

Q8: What is the purpose of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution?
Ans: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution outlines the guiding principles, objectives, and values of the Constitution, providing the context for the entire document.

Q9: Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly?
Ans: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar served as the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly, which was responsible for preparing the draft of the Constitution.

Q10: What is the total number of articles in the Indian Constitution?
Ans: The Indian Constitution originally had 395 articles, which have been amended over time.Currently, the number of articles has since increased to 448 due to 104 amendments since its enactment in 1950.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the significance of the Preamble in the Indian Constitution.
Ans: The Preamble of the Indian Constitution is crucial for understanding its purpose and values. It outlines the goals and aspirations of the Indian people, serving as a foundation for the Constitution's interpretation and application. Key aspects include:

• It expresses the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
• It sets the overall tone for the Constitution.
• It provides a framework for governance and the relationship between the state and its citizens.

Q2: Discuss the role of the Constituent Assembly in the making of the Indian Constitution.
Ans: The Constituent Assembly of India was crucial in drafting the Indian Constitution. It consisted of representatives from various backgrounds and regions, who engaged in extensive debates and discussions to create the Constitution. Key aspects addressed included:

• Fundamental rights
• Division of powers
• Preamble

The Assembly's collaborative efforts led to a comprehensive and inclusive Constitution, reflecting the diverse views of its members.

Q3: How does the Indian Constitution strike a balance between preserving core values and adapting to new circumstances?
Ans:The Indian Constitution maintains a balance between preserving core values and adapting to new circumstances through constitutional amendments. Key aspects include:

• Fundamental values and principles, outlined in the Preamble and fundamental rights, remain stable.
• The Constitution permits amendments to meet changing needs, ensuring flexibility.
• Amendments follow specific procedures and safeguards, protecting the core values and basic structure.
• This approach prevents any group from easily altering the Constitution.

Q4: Why is the Indian Constitution often referred to as a "Living Document"?
Ans:  The Indian Constitution is referred to as a 'Living Document' for several reasons:

• It is designed to be adaptable and amendable.
• The Constitution can be modified to meet new challenges and changing societal needs.
• This flexibility demonstrates its resilience and ability to respond to change.
• Despite its adaptability, it maintains its core values.

Q5: Describe the major influences on the Indian Constitution from other countries.
Ans: The Indian Constitution was influenced by various countries, incorporating elements that suited its unique context. Key influences include:.

• U.S. Constitution: Inspired the inclusion of fundamental rights, a federal structure, and the concept of judicial review.
• British Constitution: Introduced elements like parliamentary government and the rule of law.
• French Revolution: Emphasised principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
• Other constitutions, such as those of Ireland, Canada, and Australia, also contributed to its development.

Q6: What are the fundamental commitments of the Indian Constitution, as outlined in the Objective Resolution?
Ans: The Objective Resolution, introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru on January 22, 1947, outlined the core commitments of the Indian Constitution. It emphasised:

• Justice for all citizens
• Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship
• Equality of status and opportunity
• Fraternity among the people of India

These principles later formed the foundation of the Preamble of the Indian Constitution.

Q7: Explain the concept of "public reason" in the context of the Constituent Assembly's deliberations.
Ans: "Public reason" in the context of the Constituent Assembly's deliberations refers to the idea that the discussions and debates within the Assembly were based on reasoned arguments and not on personal or sectarian interests. Members of the Assembly engaged in public reasoning, deliberating on the provisions of the Constitution with the broader interests of the nation and its citizens in mind. This approach ensured that the Constitution was created through a rational, collective, and inclusive process.

Q8: What is the significance of 26th January 1950 in the context of the Indian Constitution and the declaration of Purna Swaraj?
Ans:  January 26, 1950, is a significant date in Indian history for two main reasons:

• It marks the day when the Indian Constitution came into force, transitioning India from a dominion to a republic.
• This date was chosen to honour the declaration of Purna Swaraj (complete independence), which was demanded by the Indian National Congress in 1929.

Purna Swaraj symbolised India's aspiration for full self-governance and independence from colonial rule.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Describe the process of making the Indian Constitution, including the role of the Constituent Assembly and the major committees involved.
Ans: The process of making the Indian Constitution was intricate and involved several key steps:

• Formation of the Constituent Assembly: Established in 1946, it included members from various regions and communities.
• Drafting the Constitution: This involved multiple committees, notably the Drafting Committee led by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar.
• Debates and Discussions: The Assembly held extensive discussions on different provisions of the Constitution.
• Adoption and Enforcement: The Constitution was officially adopted on January 26, 1950, marking the start of the Republic of India.

The Assembly met for 166 days over nearly three years, ensuring public access to its sessions. This collaborative effort aimed to create a Constitution that represented diverse interests and perspectives.

Q2: Discuss the effectiveness of a constitution, highlighting the three key factors that determine its effectiveness.
Ans: The effectiveness of a constitution is determined by various factors.
Three key factors include:

• Clarity and specificity of provisions: The constitution's provisions should be clear, specific, and unambiguous to avoid confusion and disputes.
• Protection of fundamental rights: Effective constitutions protect the fundamental rights of citizens, ensuring their liberties and equal treatment under the law.
• Mechanisms for change and adaptation: A constitution should have provisions for amendments and mechanisms to adapt to changing circumstances without compromising its core values.

Q3: Explain the concept of a "borrowed bag" regarding the Indian Constitution, providing examples of provisions borrowed from other countries.
Ans: The term 'borrowed bag' refers to the Indian Constitution's practice of drawing ideas from various sources. Here are some key examples of provisions that were adapted:

• Parliamentary system from the United Kingdom.
• Fundamental rights and judicial review from the United States.
• Directive Principles of State Policy from the Irish Constitution.
• Emergency provisions from the Weimar Constitution of Germany.
• Federal structure inspired by the Government of India Act 1935.

These provisions were carefully adapted to meet the unique needs of India.

Q4: Explore the role of the nationalist movement in shaping the principles and objectives of the Indian Constitution, with a focus on the Objective Resolution.
Ans: The nationalist movement played a crucial role in shaping the principles and objectives of the Indian Constitution, with the Objective Resolution serving as a key guiding document. Introduced by Jawaharlal Nehru on January 22, 1947, it outlined foundational commitments that influenced the Constitution's content. Key points include:

• Emphasis on justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, reflecting the ideals of the freedom struggle.
• Aspirations from the freedom movement, promoting independence, democratic governance, and social justice.
• A commitment to ensure that the Constitution would reflect the values and commitments of the Indian people, particularly those fought for during the nationalist struggle.

Thus, the Objective Resolution provided the framework for the Constitution, embedding the principles of democracy, equality, and justice.