Question 1 · 10 marks · 131 words written
Opening
Pratap Bhanu Mehta has referred to the Constitution of India as a 'Transformative Document' - one that would transform Indian society from a traditional to a modern one.
In doing so, Indian Constitution derives strength from its ability to accommodate disparate interests such as:
Body · points
• Provides for 'Freedom of Religion' (Art. 25-28) and secularism simultaneously. • Unitary features in Federalism but accommodation of Tribal autonomy (5th, 6th Schedule).
• Meritocratic republic (any one can become Head of state) but affirmative action for socio-economically backward classes/castes (OBC, SC, ST reservation, Women (PRIs)).
• Linguistic recognition to 22 languages (8th schedule).
• Freedom to form associations (Art. 19).
Close · a summary
The accommodation of India's diverse linguistic, ethnic, religion, racial, caste groups in such provisions guarantees that India has 'unity without uniformity' and 'diversity without difference'.