The correct option is January 26, 1950.
Explanation
The process of framing the Indian Constitution culminated in its adoption by the Constituent Assembly in 1949. However, a specific later date was chosen for its full commencement to hold historical significance related to the freedom struggle.
Option Analysis:
- August 15, 1947: Incorrect. This is the date India attained independence from British rule. On this date, the Indian Independence Act, 1947 came into effect, but the country was governed under the provisions of the Government of India Act, 1935 (with modifications) until the new Constitution was enforced.
- November 26, 1949: Incorrect. This is the date on which the Constituent Assembly adopted, enacted, and gave to themselves the Constitution. While certain provisions relating to citizenship, elections, and the provisional parliament came into force immediately on this date, the major part of the Constitution did not. This day is celebrated as Constitution Day (Samvidhan Divas).
- January 26, 1950: Correct. This is the date of the commencement of the Constitution. On this day, the Constitution formally came into full force, and India became a Republic. This date was specifically chosen to commemorate the declaration of Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) celebrated on January 26, 1930, following the Lahore Session of the Congress.
- December 13, 1946: Incorrect. This date marks the moving of the historic 'Objectives Resolution' by Jawaharlal Nehru in the Constituent Assembly, which laid down the fundamentals and philosophy of the constitutional structure.
Key Takeaway:
The Constitution was adopted on November 26, 1949, but it formally came into force on January 26, 1950 (Republic Day).