Constitution
Topic: Making of the Constitution: Constituent Assembly, Sources and Salient Features · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 9 "From the Rulers to the Ruled: Types of Governments"; Class 7, Ch 10 "The Constitution of India: An Introduction"; Class 9, Ch 6 "Democracy"; Class 11, Ch 1 "Constitution: Why and How?"
Meaning
A constitution is the set of basic rules by which a state is formed and run. It is usually one written document. It divides power among the organs of government (legislature, executive and judiciary) and puts limits on that power. It also states the goals of the society. It is the highest law of the land, so other laws must agree with it.
Example
India's Constitution came fully into force on 26 January 1950. Class 7 calls it a "rulebook", like the referee's rules in a kabaddi match. The President swears to "preserve, protect and defend" it.
Don't confuse with
- Constitutionalism: a constitution is the document of rules. Constitutionalism is the idea that a higher law really limits government power. Non-democracies also have constitutions, but they may not have constitutionalism.
Related concepts
- Functions of a constitution
- Codified and uncodified constitutions
- Constitutionalism
- Supremacy of the Constitution