Chapter 2: Constitutional Design
Democratic Constitution in South Africa
Nelson Mandela was tried for treason by the white South African government. He and seven other leaders were sentenced to life imprisonment in 1964 for daring to oppose the apartheid regime in his country.
Apartheid was the name of a system of racial discrimination unique to South Africa. The white Europeans imposed this system on South Africa.
Why Do We Need a Constitution?
A constitution is a set of written rules that are accepted by all people living together in a country. It generates a degree of trust and coordination that is necessary for different kind of people to live together.
- It specifies how the government will be constituted.
- It lays down limits on the powers of the government.
- It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.
Indian Constitution
The making of the constitution for a huge and diverse country like India was not an easy affair. The country was born through a partition on the basis of religious differences.
Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into effect on 26 January 1950.
Guiding Values
Justice: Social, economic and political.
Liberty: of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship.
Equality: of status and of opportunity.
Fraternity: assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation.