India’s Constitution, adopted on January 26, 1950, has undergone 106 amendments to address the ever-changing needs of the nation’s democracy. This adaptability makes it the most amended Constitution globally. Celebrating the 76th Republic Day in 2025, we reflect on the Constitution's profound impact on India’s governance, upholding values of freedom, equality, and unity.
Crafted over nearly four years, India's Constitution is the longest written in the world, a monumental effort by the likes of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and other key freedom fighters such as Subhas Chandra Bose, Bhagat Singh, and Mahatma Gandhi. The Constitution’s evolution demonstrates India’s resilience, growing alongside the nation’s social, political, and economic transformations.
Among the 106 amendments, several stand out for their lasting impact. The 7th Amendment (1956) restructured states based on linguistic lines, paving the way for better governance. The 24th Amendment (1971) gave Parliament the power to amend fundamental rights, while the 39th Amendment (1975) shielded elections of top officials from judicial scrutiny during the Emergency. The 42nd Amendment (1976) introduced socialist, secular, and integrity ideals to the Preamble, marking a major shift in India’s constitutional framework.
Other significant changes include the 86th Amendment (2002) establishing education as a fundamental right, the 101st Amendment (2016) introducing GST, and the most recent 106th Amendment (2023) reserving one-third of seats in legislatures for women, a major step toward gender equality.
These amendments underscore India’s commitment to a dynamic, inclusive democracy that remains responsive to its people’s needs.
