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Influence of Gandhian Thought on the Framing of the Indian Constitution

Author : Nur Mohammad Al Aman

Abstract :

The Indian Constitution, a comprehensive document reflecting the aspirations of a newly independent nation, was significantly influenced by the moral and philosophical ideals of Mahatma Gandhi. Though not a formal member of the Constituent Assembly, Gandhi's ideas rooted in truth, non-violence, decentralization, swaraj, and upliftment of the marginalized deeply permeated the minds of many constitution-makers. This paper explores how Gandhian philosophy played a vital role in shaping key constitutional principles such as fundamental rights, directive principles of state policy, village panchayats, and the socio-economic objectives of justice and equality. The study also evaluates the extent and limitations of Gandhian influence in the final draft of the Constitution.

Keywords :

Gandhism, Indian Constitution, Swaraj, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles.