Actual Article
Article 394: Commencement
This article and Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 60, 324, 366, 367, 379, 380, and 388 shall come into force at once, and the remaining provisions of this Constitution shall come into force on the twenty-sixth day of January, 1950, which day is referred to in this Constitution as the commencement of this Constitution.
UPSC Notes for Article 394
Explanation:
- Immediate Effect: Specifies that certain articles of the Constitution, including this one, come into force immediately.
- Commencement Date: Establishes January 26, 1950, as the date when the remaining provisions of the Constitution come into force.
- Significance of January 26: This date is celebrated as Republic Day in India, marking the day the Constitution was fully implemented.
Key Points:
- Immediate Articles: Lists specific articles that came into force immediately upon the adoption of the Constitution.
- Historical Significance: January 26 was chosen to honor the declaration of Purna Swaraj (complete independence) made in 1930.
- Legal Framework: Ensures a clear timeline for the implementation of the constitutional provisions.
Important Cases and Commissions Related to Article 394
Cases:
- No landmark Supreme Court cases specifically interpreting Article 394, as it deals primarily with the commencement dates of the Constitution.
Commissions:
- Various Constitutional Commissions: Have discussed the historical context and significance of the Constitution’s commencement date.
Important Reports Related to Article 394:
- Reports by the Constituent Assembly: Highlight the rationale behind choosing January 26, 1950, for the commencement of the Constitution.
Previous Year Prelims Questions Related to Article 394
- What does Article 394 of the Indian Constitution provide for?
A. Establishment of new constitutional bodies
B. Commencement of certain articles immediately and the remaining on January 26, 1950
C. Powers of the President during an emergency
D. Special provisions for the financial administration of States Correct Answer: B. Commencement of certain articles immediately and the remaining on January 26, 1950 - Which date is referred to as the commencement of the Constitution in Article 394?
A. August 15, 1947
B. January 26, 1950
C. January 1, 1950
D. November 26, 1949 Correct Answer: B. January 26, 1950 - According to Article 394, which articles came into force immediately?
A. Articles 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5
B. Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 60, 324, 366, 367, 379, 380, and 388
C. Articles 50, 60, 70, 80, and 90
D. Articles 100, 200, 300, and 400 Correct Answer: B. Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 60, 324, 366, 367, 379, 380, and 388
Previous Year Mains Questions Related to Article 394
- Discuss the significance of January 26, 1950, as the commencement date of the Indian Constitution. How does Article 394 establish this date?
- Evaluate the importance of immediately implementing certain articles of the Constitution. How did Article 394 ensure a smooth transition to the new constitutional framework?
- Analyze the historical context and implications of choosing January 26 for the commencement of the Constitution. How does this choice reflect the aspirations of the Constituent Assembly?
Additional Insights:
- Historical Context: January 26, 1950, was chosen to honor the 1930 declaration of independence from British rule, making it a symbolic date for the nation.
- Framework for Implementation: By specifying immediate and later commencement dates, Article 394 provides a structured approach for the transition to the new constitutional order.
- National Celebration: The commencement date marks Republic Day, a major national holiday celebrating the adoption of the Constitution and India’s status as a republic.
Understanding Article 394 is crucial for UPSC aspirants as it provides insights into the constitutional provisions for the commencement and implementation of the Constitution. This knowledge is essential for both preliminary and main examinations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms ensuring the effective transition to the new constitutional framework within the Indian Constitution.