The question (10 marks)
"The Preamble is the key to the Constitution, but it is not itself the lock." Explain the objectives and values enshrined in the Preamble, and discuss, with reference to Berubari Union, Kesavananda Bharati and S.R. Bommai, whether the Preamble is a part of the Constitution and what use a court may make of it.
MU essay pattern on the Preamble; built on the Unit 1 Preamble chapter, the official Constitution text, and the Berubari, Kesavananda and Bommai readings.
Plan your answer on paper before you look at the authorities — issue first, then the rule, then apply it to these facts.
It tests Unit 1 · Philosophy, History, Preamble, Salient Features and Citizenship of Constitutional Law – I.
Authorities you will need
- Preamble to the Constitution; Constitution (Forty-second Amendment) Act 1976
- In re Berubari Union (1960)
- Kesavananda Bharati v State of Kerala (1973)
- A.K. Gopalan v State of Madras (1950)
- S.R. Bommai v Union of India (1994)
- St. Xavier's College v State of Gujarat
How an answer is marked
A full-marks answer names the issue in one line, states the rule with its section, cites the authority, applies it to these facts and concludes — in that order. The app's model answer for this question is written in exactly that shape, with a checklist to mark your own attempt against.