Introduction

The Indian Constitution adopted on January 26, 1950, is one of those basic documents describing the structural structure, powers, and functions of the different establishments of India. It had absorbed principles from many constitutional bodies around the world. Still, its outstanding characteristics made it stand unique among many other constitutions needed to serve a diversified country. It differs from several others, yet it remains similar at times.

Accepted Traits

Most of the features of the Indian Constitution borrowed from other constitutions. It adopted parliamentary system from UK under Article 79, fundamental rights from the US from Articles 12-35, ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity from France in the Preamble, federal structure from Canada from Articles 1 to 4, Directive Principles of State Policy from Ireland from Articles 36 to 51, and socio-economic justice principles from USSR.

Unique Features:

1. Length and detail: The world’s longest written constitution, comprising 470 articles, covers many issues in detail.

2. Constitutional Sovereignty: As opposed to other countries, Parliament cannot abrogate the Constitution but only modify it (Article 368).

3. Fundamental Rights Conditioned: They are available with reasonable restrictions, an adaptation suited to India’s complex social landscape (Articles 12-35).

4. Federalism with Unitary Bias: Though federal in character, it permits central authority to become stronger in times of emergency (Article 356).

5. Integrated Judiciary: Under this, the integrated judiciary contains both central and state laws (Articles 124-147).

6. Vast DPSPs: With an emphasis on socio-economic justice, DPSPs frame state policies on welfare, social, and economic matters. Conclusion: In conclusion, the Indian Constitution, though inspired from many sources, is outstanding in its adaptability, depth, and vision tailored especially for India’s diversified requirements. The insight of the framers has made the constitution, though rooted in universal principles, distinctly Indian in spirit and application.

Introduction

Pressure groups are a well-coordinated group of individuals holding common interests in achieving public policy, decision-making powers, and legislation. Many are usually representing parts of the society or sectors with specified interests and operate in finding policies that benefit them in their objectives. Pressure groups, unlike political parties, don’t seek to seize power but influence the power structure.

Examples of Pressure Groups

FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry): Represents India’s business and industry interests.

ASSOCHAM – Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India: The pro-trade and commerce policy framework.

India Against Corruption: A grassroot movement that picked up momentum on an anti-corruption platform.

Methods Employed by the Interest Groups

1. Shaping Public Perception: Pressure groups do send information for changing public opinion. For instance, public consciousness about the Kaiga project was increased by numerous reports that discussed the nuclear energy impact.

2. Lobbying: They regularly lobby lawmakers to influence policies. ASSOCHAM lobbied for wage support for MSMEs and managed to attract media attention over policy formation.

3. Public Interest Litigations: Organisations file PILs about issues. The Narmada Dam case was by Medha Patkar and went on to prove the impact that legal action has on the government’s project plans.

4. Protest and Demonstrations: Peaceful protests like the 2021 farmers’ protests over Farm Laws bring attention to their causes, asking the government to reconsider policies.

5. CSOs: In Chipko and Appiko movements, how grassroots groups are organized for environmental cause can be seen.

6. Party Financing: Pressure Groups may fund political parties so that they are aligned to their interests.

7. Mass media mobilization: A pressure group will mobilize more people through media campaigns. Conclusion: Pressure groups are very essential in a democracy since they represent various interests and bring accountability to policy-making. They provide a tool for the public to raise their concerns, thereby making sure that there is representation in governance.