Constitution

CONSTITUTION OF INDIA

The Constitution of India is the supreme law of the country, laying the foundation for its democratic governance and legal framework. Adopted on 26 November 1949, and coming into effect on January 26, 1950, it is the longest written constitution in the world. It is a living document, continuously evolving through amendments and judicial interpretations to meet contemporary challenges. With over 100 amendments and landmark judicial pronouncements shaping its interpretation, the Constitution of India remains a powerful instrument of governance.

The Drafting Committee of the Indian Constitution was established by a resolution of the Constituent Assembly on 29 August 1947, with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar appointed as its Chairman. The drafting process spanned two years, eleven months, and seventeen days, culminating in the adoption of the Constitution on 26 November 1949. It officially came into force on 26 January 1950, laying the foundation for independent India's governance.

On 26 November 2024, India celebrated 75 years since the adoption of its Constitution—a momentous milestone in the nation's democratic journey. To mark this occasion, the Bombay High Court Judges' Library has developed two specialized databases:

1. Constituent Assembly Debates — Ready Reckoner
2. Constitutional Amendments — Ready Reckoner

These resources provide a comprehensive and accessible reference for users of the Bombay High Court Judges' e-Library, facilitating research and study on the evolution of constitutional law in India.