75 Years Of The Indian Constitution: A Beacon Of Rights And Transformation

M.E.S.V. Krupakar, Research Scholar, Department of Law, University of Mumbai

ABSTRACT

Constitutions form the foundation of a nation’s legal and political framework, embodying its collective aspirations and guiding the functioning of its institutions. Yet, the sustained durability of constitutions is relatively rare, with many subject to frequent amendments or replacements. In this context, the Indian Constitution’s survival and continued relevance over 75 years is a noteworthy accomplishment. This paper investigates the historical context surrounding its drafting, highlighting the interplay of social, political, and ideological currents that shaped the vision of its framers. It further explores key developments in the Constitution’s evolution across four critical dimensions: the imposition of substantive limits on constitutional amendments, the advancement of social justice, the expansion of fundamental rights through judicial interpretation, and the consolidation of judicial independence to ensure institutional integrity. The entrenchment of amendment limitations has protected core democratic values such as the rule of law and separation of powers. Parallelly, innovations like public interest litigation have democratized access to justice, enabling the judiciary to interpret rights more broadly and inclusively, thereby empowering historically disadvantaged communities. Reforms in judicial appointments have reinforced the autonomy of the judiciary, safeguarding its impartiality. Through these lenses, the paper highlights the Indian Constitution’s resilience and adaptability, emphasizing its dual role as a source of continuity and an instrument of transformative change.