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Basic Features of the Constitution of India

CBSE · Class 11 · Legal Studies

Quick revision notes for Basic Features of the Constitution of India — CBSE Class 11 Legal Studies. Key concepts, formulas, and definitions for last-minute revision.

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Key Topics to Revise

1

Meaning, Definition and Historical Perspective

  • The term 'Constitution' is derived from the Latin word 'constitutio' meaning 'to establish'.
  • Aristotle (384–322 BCE) defined Constitution as 'the way of life which the state has chosen for itself'.
  • Wade & Phillips define it as establishing fundamental organs of government, describing their structure, powers and functions, and regulating their relationship with citizens.
2

Salient Features of the Constitution of India

  • India is declared as a 'Union of States' under Article 1(1), not a 'Federation', to symbolize indissolubility and national unity.
  • The Constitution is the lengthiest written Constitution in the world, originally containing 395 Articles and 8 Schedules, now expanded to 12 Schedules.
  • It is a modern Constitution that assimilated best features from Constitutions of USA, UK, Ireland, Australia and others.
3

Preamble to the Constitution

  • The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Constitution, laying down guiding principles and philosophy.
  • The Supreme Court in Keshavananda Bharati v. Union of India (1973) held that the Preamble IS a part of the Constitution.
  • The Preamble is the guide to interpret provisions of the Constitution.
4

Fundamental Rights (Part III, Articles 12–35)

  • Part III (Articles 12–35) contains Fundamental Rights — basic human rights of a political and civil nature, enforceable by courts.
  • Fundamental Rights are JUSTICIABLE — they can be enforced through courts. Legislative/executive actions violating them are declared ultra vires.
  • Article 32 (Supreme Court) and Article 226 (High Courts) provide for writs to enforce Fundamental Rights.

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Full Notes

Key Concepts

The word 'Constitution' comes fromBefore independenceThe Preamble is the introductory statementFundamental Rights are basicWrits are judicial orders issued by

Frequently Asked Questions

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Key topics in Basic Features of the Constitution of India include Salient Features of the Constitution of India — Complete Overview, Salient Features of the Constitution of India — Complete Overview, Salient Features of the Constitution of India. These are the concepts CBSE Class 11 examiners draw on most — study them first, then practise related questions.
How to score full marks in Basic Features of the Constitution of India — CBSE Class 11 Legal Studies?
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Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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