With reference to the sources of the Indian Constitution, which of the following concepts was borrowed from the French Constitution?

Correct Option

The correct option is The Principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.

Explanation

The Constitution of India is often described as a "bag of borrowings" because its drafters incorporated administrative details and philosophical principles from various other constitutions. The ideals enshrined in the Preamble reflect the influence of major global historical events, particularly the French Revolution.

Option-wise Analysis

• The Principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity is Correct: The ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, as well as the concept of a Republic, were borrowed from the French Constitution. These principles form the philosophical bedrock of the Indian Preamble.
• The idea of Residual Powers is Incorrect: The idea of Residual Powers vesting with the Centre (a federal system with a strong central government) was borrowed from the Canadian Constitution.
• The Institution of the Speaker is Incorrect: The Institution of the Speaker and their role, along with the parliamentary form of government and rule of law, were borrowed from the British Constitution.
• Directive Principles of State Policy is Incorrect: The Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP) were borrowed from the Irish Constitution (which had copied it from the Spanish Constitution).

Key Takeaway: The French Constitution is the specific source for the ideals of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity found in the Preamble, whereas the structural details of federalism and parliamentary procedures are derived largely from Canada and Britain, respectively.