Roadmap for Answer Writing

1. Introduction

• Briefly mention the Indian National Movement as a crucial political development.
• State that the ideals of democracy, secularism, social justice, and equality, which emerged during the freedom struggle, are enshrined in the Indian Constitution, influencing civil liberties today.

2. Foundations of Democratic Polity

• Key Idea: The Indian National Movement laid the groundwork for a democratic system by introducing civil libertarian and democratic traditions.
• Example: Gandhi’s focus on grassroots democracy through Panchayati Raj influenced the 73rd Amendment of the Constitution (1992), institutionalizing local self-governance.

3. Religious Freedom and Secularism

• Key Idea: The movement strongly committed to secularism and religious freedom, ensuring equal rights for all faiths.
• Example: The Karachi Session (1931) of the Indian National Congress emphasized religious freedom, influencing Articles 25-28 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee freedom of religion.

4. Advocacy for Social Justice

• Key Idea: The Indian National Movement was at the forefront in fighting the caste system and untouchability.
• Example: The efforts of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Gandhi against untouchability contributed to the adoption of Articles 14-18 of the Indian Constitution, ensuring equality and abolishing untouchability.

5. Legacy of Peaceful Protests and Non-Violence

• Key Idea: The movement’s emphasis on non-violence and peaceful assembly is reflected in civil liberties related to protests and public gatherings.
• Example: Gandhi’s Salt March (1930), which was a peaceful protest, inspired Article 19(1)(b) of the Indian Constitution, granting the right to assemble peacefully.

6. Universal Adult Suffrage

• Key Idea: The movement advocated for universal voting rights for all citizens, regardless of gender or social status.
• Example: The Women’s Indian Association (WIA) led by Sarojini Naidu and Annie Besant fought for women’s right to vote. This principle was later reflected in Article 326 of the Indian Constitution.

7. Conclusion

• Summarize the enduring influence of the Indian National Movement on the civil liberties enjoyed today.
• State that the principles of democracy, equality, secularism, and non-violence continue to shape India’s political and legal landscape, ensuring rights for all citizens.

Relevant Facts for the Answer

1. Gandhi’s Grassroot Democracy: Gandhi’s belief in decentralization and self-rule is seen in the 73rd Constitutional Amendment (1992), which empowered rural local governance through Panchayati Raj.
2. Religious Freedom: The Karachi Session of 1931 passed a resolution ensuring religious freedom, which later found a place in Articles 25-28 of the Constitution.
3. Fight Against Caste System and Untouchability: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Gandhi’s efforts led to Articles 14-18, which prohibited discrimination on the basis of caste, religion, or sex and abolished untouchability.
4. Peaceful Protests and Non-Violence: Gandhi’s Salt March (1930), a key non-violent protest, influenced Article 19(1)(b), which grants the right to assemble peacefully.
5. Universal Adult Suffrage: The Women’s Indian Association (WIA), led by Sarojini Naidu and Annie Besant, fought for women’s voting rights, which were later incorporated into Article 326 of the Constitution.