Constitutional Design Class 9 Notes: CBSE Civics Chapter 2

What is a Constitution?

A constitution is a set of fundamental rules that govern how a nation operates. It defines the rights and responsibilities of citizens, the powers of the government, and how the government should function. As the highest law of the land, it ensures that all laws and policies align with these core principles. This chapter explores the role of a constitution and provides a thorough understanding of its significance in a country.

Apartheid

The racial discrimination that was imposed in South Africa by the White Europeans is termed as Apartheid. The White Europeans with arms and forces started ruling South Africa in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. They started Apartheid and divided people based on their skin colour. Under their rule, all non-whites were treated as inferiors and as slaves. Voting rights were not given to non-white citizens of the country, and they were also not allowed to stay in areas where white people were residing.

The black coloured and Indians started their fight against this discrimination in the year 1950 by forming an umbrella organisation which was named as African National Congress. Nelson Mandela was one of the leaders who was fighting against this struggle and was sentenced to imprisonment in 1964 in the context of his opposition to Apartheid.

Democratic Constitution in South Africa

Struggle Against Apartheid:

In South Africa, racial discrimination was enforced by white Europeans who settled there during the 17th and 18th centuries. The apartheid system, established by white rulers, divided the population based on skin colour, with whites considered superior. Non-whites were denied voting rights and restricted from living in white areas. The struggle against apartheid, which began in the 1950s, saw groups like the African National Congress (ANC) leading the fight. Nelson Mandela and other leaders were imprisoned for opposing the apartheid regime, with Mandela receiving a life sentence in 1964.

Formation of the New Constitution:

As resistance to apartheid grew stronger, the oppressive regime could no longer sustain its rule. The white government began to change its policies, repealing discriminatory laws, and lifting bans on political parties and media. Nelson Mandela was released from prison after 28 years. On April 26, 1994, apartheid officially ended, and a new multi-racial government was formed. This new democratic South Africa saw both the former ruling party and liberation movements collaborate to create a constitution that guaranteed extensive rights to all citizens, ensuring no one was excluded from the nation's progress.

Making of the Indian Constitution

India's Constitution was created under challenging conditions. The country emerged from a traumatic partition based on religious differences, leading to significant upheaval for both India and Pakistan. The British left the decision of merging princely states with either India or Pakistan or remaining independent, to the rulers of these states. This process of merger was fraught with difficulties and uncertainties. At the time the Constitution was drafted, India's future was not as stable as it is today.

The Path to the Constitution

A key advantage for the framers of the Indian Constitution was the consensus on democratic principles that had already developed during the freedom struggle. In 1928, Motilal Nehru and other Congress leaders drafted a preliminary constitution for India, and the 1931 Karachi session of the Indian National Congress outlined the core features of an independent India’s Constitution. These documents proposed fundamental elements such as the Universal Adult Franchise, the Right to Freedom and Equality, and protections for minority rights. These foundational values were widely accepted even before the Constituent Assembly convened. Consequently, the Indian Constitution incorporated many institutional details and procedures from colonial laws, like the Government of India Act of 1935. Influences from the French Revolution, British parliamentary democracy, and the U.S. Bill of Rights also shaped the new Constitution.

Why a Constitution?

The example of South Africa illustrates the need for a constitution. It provides a framework for protecting rights and ensuring justice, especially in the wake of systemic oppression. A constitution helps unify a diverse society by establishing common principles and rules that govern all aspects of national life.

philosophy. Start by examining the perspectives of key leaders on the Constitution and reviewing what the Constitution itself articulates about its guiding principles. This understanding is encapsulated in the Preamble.

The Dream and the Promise

Many members of the Constituent Assembly were inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s vision of an India free from inequality. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, who played a pivotal role in drafting the Constitution, shared this aspiration but had a different approach to addressing social inequalities compared to Gandhi's vision.

Philosophy of the Constitution

The values that inspired and guided India's freedom struggle, and were also shaped by it, form the core of India’s democracy. These values are embedded in the Preamble of the Indian Constitution and reflect the foundational principles of the nation's governance.

1. We, the People of India:

The Constitution of India was created and enacted by the people through their elected representatives, not imposed by a monarch or external powers. This emphasises the democratic principle of self-governance.

2. Sovereign:

India holds supreme authority over its internal and external affairs. No foreign entity has the right to influence or control the Government of India.

3. Socialist:

The principle of socialism underlines that wealth should be generated and shared by society as a whole. The government is responsible for regulating land and industry to reduce economic inequalities and promote fair distribution.

4. Secular:

Indian citizens are free to practise any religion. The state maintains neutrality in religious matters and treats all religions equally, without endorsing any particular religion.

5. Democratic:

India is governed by a system where people have equal political rights, participate in electing leaders, and hold them accountable. The government operates according to established rules and principles.

6. Republic:

In India, the head of state is elected, rather than inheriting the position through family lineage. This reinforces the democratic and non-hereditary nature of governance.

7. Justice:

The Constitution guarantees equality before the law and aims to eliminate discrimination based on caste, religion, or gender. It emphasises social justice and the welfare of disadvantaged groups.

8. Liberty:

Citizens have the freedom to express their thoughts, beliefs, and actions without unreasonable restrictions. This ensures personal freedoms and autonomy.

9. Equality:

The principle of equality ensures that all individuals are treated equally before the law and that traditional social inequalities are addressed. The government is tasked with providing equal opportunities for all.

10. Fraternity:

The Constitution promotes a sense of brotherhood among citizens, encouraging them to treat each other with respect and not as inferiors. This fosters unity and social cohesion.

Institutional Design

A Constitution is more than a set of principles; it also outlines the institutional framework necessary to implement these values. The Indian Constitution is a comprehensive and detailed document that requires regular updates through amendments to stay relevant. It specifies the procedures for electing leaders, defining their powers, and establishing governance structures. These arrangements ensure that the values enshrined in the Constitution are translated into effective governance and societal functioning.

5 Important Topics of Political Science Class 9 Chapter 2 You Shouldn’t Miss!

Importance of Chapter 2 Constitutional Design Class 9 Revision Notes

• Revision notes condense complex material into summaries, making it easier to understand core concepts and details. 

• They simplify challenging topics by presenting information in a more accessible format. 

• Regularly reviewing these notes strengthens memory and enhances information retention. 

• With all essential points gathered in one place, study sessions become more efficient and focused. 

• Revision notes emphasise key themes and concepts, helping students prioritise what is most important for their exams.

Tips for Learning the Class 9 Civics Chapter 2 Constitutional Design

• Familiarise yourself with the historical events that led to the drafting of the Indian Constitution, including the freedom struggle and the role of key leaders.

• Study the fundamental principles of the Constitution, such as democracy, secularism, and federalism, and understand their significance in shaping governance.

• Pay attention to the formation, functions, and contributions of the Constituent Assembly in the constitution-making process.

• Know the different fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution and the corresponding duties of citizens.

• Understand the purpose and significance of the Preamble, and how it reflects the core values and goals of the Constitution.

• Refer to revision notes to quickly review and reinforce important concepts, focusing on summaries and key points.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Class 9 Civics Chapter 2 Constitutional Design provides an insightful look into the creation and significance of the Indian Constitution. By understanding the historical context, key features, and the role of the Constituent Assembly, students gain an understanding of how the Constitution shapes governance and protects citizens' rights. The study of fundamental rights and the Preamble highlights the core values and principles that guide the country.

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