How India's Constitution Was Made: The Assembly

May 3, 2025 - 21:49 Updated: May 5, 2025 - 12:48

This article delves into the pivotal Constituent Assembly and the intricate making of the Indian Constitution, a cornerstone of modern India. Understanding this historical process is crucial for grasping the foundations of the world's largest democracy.

1. The Vision of the Cabinet Mission: Setting the Stage for the Constituent Assembly

Following World War II, the British government recognized the growing demand for Indian self-rule. The Cabinet Mission Plan, a significant initiative, proposed the establishment of a Constituent Assembly. This assembly was envisioned as the body responsible for drafting a Constitution for India. The members of this crucial assembly were not directly elected by the entire population but rather chosen by the existing Provincial Legislative Assemblies.

2. Representation Based on Population: Crafting an Inclusive Assembly

The allocation of seats within the Constituent Assembly was meticulously planned to ensure fair representation. Each Province (of British India) and each Indian State (the princely states) were allotted seats roughly in proportion to their population. The guiding principle was approximately one seat for every million people. Furthermore, the seats assigned to each Province were distributed among the major communities recognized at the time: Sikh, Muslim, and General. This aimed to reflect the diverse social fabric of pre-independent India.

Also Read :- Evolution of Indian Constitution

3. Composition and Evolution of the Assembly: From Undivided India to the Dominion

Initially, the total number of members in the Constituent Assembly stood at 385. This included 93 representatives from the Indian States and 292 members from the Provinces (British India). However, the political landscape underwent a dramatic shift with the partition of India. Following this momentous event, the number of members in the Constituent Assembly was reduced to 299. Notably, on November 26, 1949, when the finally approved Constitution of India was signed, 284 members were actually present. The Constituent Assembly, initially elected for an undivided India, held its first meeting on December 9, 1946. It later reassembled on August 14, 1947, as the sovereign Constituent Assembly for the dominion of India, marking a new chapter in its crucial work.

4. The Time Taken: A Testament to Deliberation and Detail

The task of finalizing the Constitution was a monumental undertaking. The Constituent Assembly dedicated two years, eleven months, and eighteen days to this meticulous process, highlighting the extensive debates and considerations involved in shaping the foundational law of the nation.

5. The Objective Resolution: Guiding Principles for the Constitution

A pivotal moment in the making of the Constitution was the introduction of the Objective Resolution. Moved by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru during the first session of the Constituent Assembly on December 13, 1946, this resolution laid down the fundamental principles and aspirations that would guide the constitution-making process. After considerable deliberation and debate within the Assembly, the Objective Resolution was adopted on January 22, 1947. This resolution embodied key objectives such as establishing India as an independent sovereign republic and ensuring justice, liberty, and equality for all its citizens. The Objectives Resolution profoundly influenced the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, reflecting the core values envisioned by the framers.