Part XXII: Short Title, Commencement, Authoritative Text in Hindi, and Repeals

Article 394: Commencement

Original Article:

Article 394 provides for the commencement of this Constitution, with specific provisions coming into effect immediately, and the remaining provisions commencing on 26 January 1950.

Explanations:

Article 394 sets out the timeline for the commencement of the Indian Constitution. Key articles essential for governance were enacted immediately, while the full Constitution came into force on Republic Day, 26 January 1950, marking a significant milestone in India's journey as an independent republic.

Clause-by-Clause Explanation:

Immediate Activation of Essential Articles

Articles such as 5-9 (Citizenship), 60 (President’s Oath), and 324 (Election Commission) were enacted immediately to facilitate the transition to democratic governance.

Full Constitution on Republic Day

The remaining provisions of the Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950, chosen for its symbolic importance as the anniversary of the Purna Swaraj declaration of 1930.

Legislative History:

The phased commencement of the Constitution was a carefully considered decision, ensuring essential governance mechanisms were operational while honoring the symbolic significance of 26 January.

Historical Significance:

The date 26 January commemorates India’s declaration of Purna Swaraj in 1930, aligning the adoption of the Constitution with the nation’s independence movement.

Real-Life Examples:

The immediate activation of citizenship provisions under Article 394 ensured clarity on citizenship status, a key requirement for the first general elections in India.

References:

• Constitution of India, Article 394
• Historical accounts of the Constituent Assembly debates
• Records on the Purna Swaraj declaration of 1930