Polity

Preamble of the Indian Constitution Explained

The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Constitution. It begins with 'We, the People of India' and declares India a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic that secures Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. It was amended only once, by the 42nd Amendment in 1976.

Last reviewed 2026-10-15

Key words and objectives

Sovereign: India is independent and not under any external authority.
Socialist, Secular and Integrity: added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
Democratic and Republic: power rests with the people, and the head of state is elected, not hereditary.
Justice (social, economic, political), Liberty (of thought, expression, belief, faith, worship), Equality (of status and opportunity) and Fraternity (assuring dignity of the individual and unity and integrity of the nation).

Legal status

In the Berubari Union case (1960) the Supreme Court held that the Preamble is not a part of the Constitution.
In Kesavananda Bharati (1973) the Court reversed this and held that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and can be amended, without altering the basic structure.
The Preamble is neither enforceable in court nor a source of power, but it guides interpretation.
It is based on the Objectives Resolution moved by Jawaharlal Nehru on 13 December 1946 and adopted on 22 January 1947.

Frequently asked questions

Which amendment changed the Preamble?

The 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, which added the words Socialist, Secular and Integrity.

Is the Preamble a part of the Constitution?

Yes. The Supreme Court said so in Kesavananda Bharati (1973), overruling its earlier view in the Berubari case.

Can the Preamble be amended?

Yes, under Article 368, but not in a way that alters the basic structure.