Indian courts have used which interpretive methodology to give expansive meaning to Preamble values like justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity?
- Strict originalism only
- Living constitutionalism with purposive interpretation
- Textualism without context
- Deference to executive interpretation only
Answer: Living constitutionalism with purposive interpretation
Interpretive methodology in Indian constitutionalism: (a) Living constitutionalism: Constitution adapts to changing societal needs while preserving core values; Preamble values guide interpretation of ambiguous provisions, (b) Purposive interpretation: Courts interpret provisions to advance constitutional purpose (justice, liberty, equality, fraternity) rather than narrow textual meaning, (c) Applications: (i) Maneka Gandhi (1978): Expanded Article 21 through purposive interpretation of 'life and personal liberty', (ii) Puttaswamy (2017): Privacy recognized as intrinsic to dignity through purposive reading of Articles 14, 19, 21, (iii) Navtej Singh Johar (2018): Equality and dignity interpreted to protect LGBTQ+ rights, (d) Balance: Adaptation without abandonment — core values constant, application evolves. Illustrates dynamic constitutionalism: Preamble as compass for navigating contemporary challenges.