I: Paper-III : Constitutional Law
Structured subject study centre with syllabus, unit-wise notes, quick references, important statutes and charts.
Subject introduction
Constitutional Law is a fundamental branch of public law that deals with the structure, powers and functions of the State and the relationship between the State and its citizens. In India, it is primarily governed by the Constitution of India, 1950, which is the supreme law of the country. The subject covers the Preamble, citizenship, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties, Union and State Governments, Parliament, State Legislatures, the judiciary, Centre–State relations, emergency provisions and constitutional amendment. It also examines important principles such as constitutional supremacy, rule of law, separation of powers, judicial review, federalism and the basic structure doctrine. Its central purpose is to limit governmental power, protect individual rights and ensure democratic, responsible and constitutional governance.
Syllabus
PAPER-III:
CONSTITUTIONAL LAW-I
Unit-I:
Constitution-Meaning and Significance - Evolution of Modern Constitutions - Classification of Constitutions- Indian Constitution - Historical Perspectives - Government of India Act, 1919-Government of India Act, 1935-Drafting of Indian Constitution - Role of Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly
Unit-II:
Nature and Salient Features of Indian Constitution - Preamble to Indian Constitution - Union and its Territories-Citizenship - General Principles relating to Fundamental Rights(Art.13) - Definition of State
Unit-III:
Right to Equality(Art.14-18) – Freedoms and Restrictions under Art.19 - Protection against Ex-post facto law - Guarantee against Double Jeopardy - Privilege against Self-incrimination - Right to Life and Personal Liberty - Right to Education – Protection against Arrest and Preventive Detention
Unit-IV:
Rights against Exploitation - Right to Freedom of Religion - Cultural and Educational Rights - Right to Constitutional Remedies - Limitations on Fundamental Rights(Art.31-A,B and C)
Unit-V:
Directive Principles of State Policy – Significance – Nature – Classification - Application and Judicial Interpretation - Relationship between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles - Fundamental Duties – Significance - Judicial Interpretation
Suggested Readings:
1. M.P.Jain, Indian Constitutional Law, Wadhwa & Co, Nagpur
2. V.N.Shukla, Constitution of India, Eastern Book Company, Lucknow
3. Granville Austin, Indian Constitution-Cornerstone of a Nation, OUP, New Delhi
4. H.M.Seervai, Constitutional Law of India (in 3 Volumes), N.M.Tripathi, Bombay
5. G.C.V.Subba Rao, Indian Constitutional Law, S.Gogia & Co., Hyderabad
6. B.Shiva Rao: Framing of India’s Constitution (in 5 Volumes), Indian Institute of Public Administration, New Delhi
7. J.N.Pandey, Constitutional Law of India, Central Law Agency, Allahabad