Topic Details (Notes format)

Basic Structure Doctrine

Subject: Polity

Book: Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth

Propounded by the Supreme Court in the 1973 “Keshavananda Bharati” case, the doctrine holds that while Parliament can amend most parts of the Constitution, it cannot alter its “basic structure” or essential features. Though not exhaustively defined, key elements include judicial review, federalism, secularism, and the parliamentary form of government. Subsequent judgments expanded the list to include rule of law, freedom, and judicial independence. This doctrine safeguards democracy from potential legislative overreach and preserves constitutional identity. It signifies the judiciary’s pivotal role in maintaining India’s constitutional ethos by striking down amendments that violate core principles.

Practice Questions

Which of the following provisions of the Indian Constitution is related to the financial emergency?

Who is the first citizen of India?

किस संविधान संशोधन ने संसद में महिलाओं के आरक्षण का प्रस्ताव रखा?

संसद सत्रों का आयोजन किसके द्वारा किया जाता है?

संघीय परिषद का प्रावधान किस अनुच्छेद में है?

भारतीय संविधान में मौलिक कर्तव्यों का प्रावधान किस अनुच्छेद में है?

What is the minimum age for a person to become the Chief Minister of a state in India?

Who was the first woman Chief Minister in India?

कार्यपालिका के प्रमुख की नियुक्ति में न्यूनतम अनुभव में निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा आवश्यक नहीं है?

भारत में निर्वाचन आयोग का गठन किस आधार पर होता है?