Understanding the Original Structure of the Indian Constitution

The Constitution of India is the supreme law of India. It lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishing the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens. When it was originally adopted, the Indian Constitution had a specific structure regarding its Articles, Parts, and Schedules.

Genesis of the Indian Constitution Articles

The Constitution of India was drafted by the Constituent Assembly. After extensive deliberations, it was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950. At the time of its commencement, the Constitution was a comprehensive document designed to govern the newly formed Republic of India.

Let's look at the question again, which asks about the original number of Articles in the Indian Constitution. The options provided are 385, 395, 365, and 375. We need to determine which of these numbers correctly represents the original count of Articles.

Analysing the Original Composition

When the Constitution of India came into force on 26th January 1950, it was structured as follows:

• It consisted of a Preamble.
• It was divided into 22 Parts.
• These Parts contained a total of 395 Articles.
• It also had 8 Schedules.

This original structure is a key historical fact about the Indian Constitution. Over the years, the Constitution has been amended numerous times, which has led to the addition of new articles, parts, and schedules, and the deletion or modification of others. However, the question specifically asks about the original number.

Based on the historical records and the original text of the Constitution as adopted and enforced in 1950, the number of Articles was indeed 395.

Let's consider the given options:

• 385: This is not the correct original number of Articles.
• 395: This matches the historical record of the original number of Articles.
• 365: This is not the correct original number of Articles.
• 375: This is not the correct original number of Articles.

Therefore, the Indian Constitution originally consisted of 395 Articles.

Understanding the original structure is important context when studying the evolution of the Indian Constitution through its various amendments.

Revision Table: Indian Constitution Key Facts

Additional Information: Articles and Amendments

The Articles of the Indian Constitution are grouped into different Parts, each dealing with a specific aspect of the constitutional framework, such as Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, the Union Government, State Governments, etc.

Amendments to the Constitution are made under Article 368. These amendments can add, modify, or repeal articles. For instance, new articles like 21A (Right to Education) or new parts like Part IX-A (Municipalities) and Part IX-B (Co-operative Societies) have been added over time, changing the overall structure and number of operational articles and parts, although the last numbered article remains 395. Sub-clauses like 51A or 356A are added using letters (e.g., Article 51A, Article 356A, 243-A to 243-ZG), increasing the effective number of articles.

The Schedules provide details and lists referred to in the Articles, such as the list of states and union territories, allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha, lists of official languages, etc. Four schedules have been added since 1950.