What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January, 1950?
A
A Democratic Republic
B
A Sovereign Democratic Republic
Correct Answer
C
A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic
D
A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic
Explanation
Option (B) is correct because the original Preamble, as adopted on 26th January 1950, defined India specifically as a "Sovereign Democratic Republic." Option (D) is a common misconception as it reflects India's current status; however, the terms "Socialist" and "Secular" were only inserted later by the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976. The core concept being tested is the historical evolution of the Preamble and the specific changes made to the Constitution over time.
Indian PolityPreamble of the Constitution / Constitutional Status26th January 1950PreambleSovereignDemocraticRepublicSecularSocialist42nd Amendment Act