Write a detailed description of the features of the Indian Constitution.

The important features of the Indian Constitution are:

a) Adoption of Universal Adult Franchise: All Indians above the age of 21 were granted the right to vote, irrespective of their social, educational or financial backgrounds. In many other countries, the right to vote had been granted in stages- to property-owning men, then educated men and finally women. However, in India, all citizens were granted the right to vote immediately after independence.

b) Equality before Law: Indian citizens were granted equality before law and equal protection of law. This was done despite the demands of making India a Hindu state. It recognises and accommodates the religious diversity of India in a perfect manner.

c) Special privileges for the poorest: The government provided positive support to the poorest and the most disadvantaged community. Consequently, untouchability was abolished and reservations were provided to SCs and STs in government jobs, legislatures and educational institutions.

d) Federal Structure: The constitution provides for a federal structure of governance. The power is shared between the central and state governments. This power sharing is embedded in the constitution through the provision of Union, State and Concurrent lists.