Question

Who coined the term Indian Constitution as a 'social document'?

• A. Granville Austin
• B. M. V. Pylee
• C. Upendra Baxi
• D. Rajni Kothari

Hint:

Granville Austin also famously described Indian federalism as "Cooperative Federalism".
Knowing these key academic quotes is essential for higher-level polity exams.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Scholars often analyze the Indian Constitution not just as a set of laws, but as a framework intended to bring about social change and equity.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Granville Austin, a distinguished American historian and authority on the Indian Constitution, famously described it as a 'social document'.
In his influential book, "The Indian Constitution: Cornerstone of a Nation", he argued that the core of the document—the Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy—is aimed at achieving a social revolution.
He believed the primary aim of the Constitution was to set the stage for a society that fulfills the basic needs of its people and eliminates traditional hierarchies.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The term was coined by the historian Granville Austin.