"Preamble is a part of the Indian Constitution." — Comment.
In short
The Preamble is part of the Indian Constitution, as the Supreme Court held in Kesavananda Bharati (1973), overruling Berubari (1960); it is amendable under Article 368 without altering the basic structure, but non-justiciable. It is the key to the Constitution's spirit, vesting sovereignty in "We, the People of India".
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 263 words
Amendability and Non-Justiciability
Kesavananda Bharati held it amendable under Article 368, provided the basic structure is preserved, as seen in the 42nd Amendment1 adding “socialist” and “secular.” However, the Preamble is not enforceable in courts, serving only as a guiding text without conferring legal rights or duties.
Berubari to Kesavananda Shift
Initially, in Berubari Union (1960), the Preamble was not considered part of the Constitution but an interpretative aid. Kesavananda Bharati (1973) overruled this, declaring it integral and foundational to the basic structure doctrine.
S.R. Bommai and Beyond
The Supreme Court in S.R. Bommai (1994) reaffirmed the Preamble’s role in upholding secularism as a basic feature, emphasizing its importance in constitutional interpretation and governance, influencing decisions on federalism and fundamental rights.
Ethical Compass
The Preamble declares sovereignty from “We, the People,” embodying justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, thus guiding lawmakers, administrators, and judges in aligning governance with constitutional ideals.
Social Transformation Catalyst
It inspires policies like affirmative action and protections against caste discrimination, which remain crucial in Andhra Pradesh and across India, promoting social justice and inclusive development.
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