How was the Indian Constitution prepared?

The Indian Constitution was prepared by the Constituent Assembly, which was set up in 1946 to frame the laws for independent India. The Assembly first had 389 members and, after Partition, its strength became 299. Fifteen women were members of the Assembly. The process involved careful discussion and drafting of provisions over several years.

• Rajendra Prasad was the Chairman of the Constituent Assembly and presided over its sessions.
• B.R. Ambedkar headed the Drafting Committee which prepared the detailed text of the Constitution.
• The Constitution was debated and finalised over about three years and was adopted on 26 November 1949.

It came into effect on 26 January 1950, the day now celebrated as Republic Day.