11 NCERT CBSE Political Science Chapter 9: CONSTITUTION AS A
LIVING DOCUMENT
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Theme Analysis
Main ThemeIndian Constitution as a Living Document
Subject CategoryPolitical Science / Civics
Key Concepts
Question FocusQuestions cover the nature of the Indian Constitution as a dynamic document, various amendment procedures, the role of different institutions (Parliament, Judiciary, States), and key historical amendments and doctrines like the Basic Structure. Emphasis is placed on conceptual understanding, application of rules, and analysis of constitutional evolution.
What does it mean for the Indian Constitution to be considered a 'living document'?
Hint: Think about how the Constitution has remained relevant over many decades despite societal changes.
Answer
The Indian Constitution is considered a 'living document' because it evolves and responds to changing societal needs and circumstances, adapting through amendments and interpretations while maintaining its basic framework.
Explanation
The text states that the Constitution 'keeps evolving and responding to changing situations' and 'responds to experience,' making it dynamic and durable. This adaptability is the core characteristic of a living document.
Which of the following provisions in the Indian Constitution can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament, without recourse to Article 368?
Hint: Recall the examples given for articles modified 'by law'.
Answer
Provisions like the admission or establishment of new states (Article 2) can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament.
Explanation
Articles 2 and 3, concerning the admission of new states or changing state boundaries, specifically use the wording 'by law,' indicating that they can be modified by Parliament using a simple majority, similar to ordinary legislation, without invoking the special procedure of Article 368.
The Indian Constitution is described as a combination of 'flexible' and 'rigid' characteristics. What does this combination primarily aim to achieve?
Hint: Consider the balance the Constitution makers sought regarding amendments.
Answer
The combination of 'flexible' and 'rigid' characteristics aims to protect the Constitution from unnecessary and frequent changes while allowing for necessary modifications according to the needs of society.
Explanation
The Constitution makers wanted to strike a balance: the Constitution must be amended if required, but it must also be protected from unnecessary and frequent changes. Flexibility allows adaptation, while rigidity safeguards core principles and the federal structure.
In the Lok Sabha (total strength 545 members), if 400 members are present and vote on a constitutional amendment bill, how many members must support the bill for it to pass, considering both conditions for special majority?
Hint: Remember the two conditions for special majority: half of total strength AND two-thirds of those present and voting.
Answer
For a constitutional amendment bill to pass in the Lok Sabha with 400 members voting, it requires a minimum of 273 members in favour.
Explanation
Special majority requires two conditions: 1) at least half of the total strength of the House (545/2 = 272.5, so 273 members for Lok Sabha), and 2) two-thirds of those present and voting (2/3 of 400 = 266.67, so 267 members). Both conditions must be met. Since 273 is greater than 267, the bill requires 273 affirmative votes to satisfy both criteria.
Where can amendments to the Indian Constitution be initiated?
Hint: Consider the body responsible for legislative processes at the national level.
Answer
All amendments to the Indian Constitution are initiated only in the Parliament (either House).
Explanation
The text clearly states, 'Note that all amendments to the Constitution are initiated only in the Parliament.' This means State Legislatures cannot initiate constitutional amendments.
What is the President of India's power regarding a constitutional amendment bill after it has been passed by Parliament?
Hint: Think about how amendment bills differ from ordinary bills in this aspect.
Answer
The President has no power to send a constitutional amendment bill back for reconsideration; assent is mandatory after it has been passed by Parliament.
Explanation
The document specifies that an amendment bill, unlike other bills, 'goes to the President for his assent, but in this case, the President has no powers to send it back for reconsideration.' This highlights the finality of Parliament's decision in the amendment process.
The Basic Structure Doctrine, established in the Kesavananda Bharati case, has significantly impacted the evolution of the Indian Constitution. Which of the following best describes its primary effect?
Hint: Consider what the doctrine protects within the Constitution.
Answer
The Basic Structure Doctrine set specific limits on Parliament's power to amend the Constitution, prohibiting any amendment that would violate its basic features.
Explanation
The text explicitly states that the Basic Structure Doctrine 'has set specific limits to Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution. It says that no amendment can violate the basic structure of the Constitution.' This ensures that while the Constitution is flexible, its fundamental identity remains protected.
In which landmark case did the Judiciary advance the theory of the basic structure of the Constitution?
Hint: Recall the specific case mentioned as the origin point of this doctrine.
Answer
The Judiciary advanced the theory of the basic structure of the Constitution in the famous Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973.
Explanation
The document clearly states, 'You know already that the Judiciary advanced this theory in the famous case of Kesavananda Bharati.' This case, decided in 1973, is foundational to understanding the limits of parliamentary amending power.
How has the Judiciary contributed to the evolution of the Constitution without formal amendments?
Hint: Think about how courts clarify and apply laws.
Answer
The Judiciary has contributed to the evolution of the Constitution by interpreting existing provisions, leading to new understandings and principles, such as the basic structure doctrine or the creamy layer concept.
Explanation
The text explains that the Basic Structure Doctrine 'has emerged from judicial interpretation. Thus, the Judiciary and its interpretation have practically amended the Constitution without a formal amendment.' It also cites examples like 'creamy layer' and interpretations regarding rights to education, life, and liberty.
Why do some constitutional amendments in India require ratification by legislatures of half the states, in addition to a special majority in Parliament?
Hint: Consider the nature of India's federal system.
Answer
Ratification by state legislatures is required for amendments modifying articles related to the distribution of powers between the States and the central government, or representation, to prevent the central government from unilaterally altering federal provisions.
Explanation
The text states that for articles related to the 'distribution of powers between the States and the central government, or articles related to representation,' State consent is necessary. This provision 'ensured this by providing that legislatures of half the States have to pass the amendment bill' to protect the federal nature of the Constitution.
Which period in India's political history saw a large number of controversial amendments, including the 38th, 39th, and 42nd Amendments?
Hint: Recall the timeline associated with the internal emergency.
Answer
The period between 1970 and 1980, particularly around the internal emergency, saw a large number of controversial amendments, including the 38th, 39th, and 42nd Amendments.
Explanation
The text explicitly mentions, 'amendments during the period 1970 to 1980 generated a lot of legal and political controversy. ... The 38th, 39th and 42nd amendments have been the most controversial amendments so far. These three amendments were made in the background of internal emergency declared in the country from June 1975.'
What was the primary purpose of the 43rd and 44th Amendments to the Constitution?
Hint: Consider the context of the post-Emergency period.
Answer
The primary purpose of the 43rd and 44th Amendments was to cancel most of the changes effected by the controversial 38th, 39th, and 42nd Amendments and restore constitutional balance.
Explanation
Following the defeat of the ruling party in 1977 after the Emergency, the new government 'thought it necessary to reconsider these controversial amendments and through the 43rd and 44th amendments, cancelled most of the changes that were effected by the 38th, 39th and the 42nd amendments. The constitutional balance was restored by these amendments.'
Despite a relatively difficult amendment method, India has seen 106 amendments in 74 years. Which of the following is NOT presented as a primary reason for this high number?
Hint: Recall the three groups of amendments discussed.
Answer
The Constitution being entirely flawed and needing constant overhauling is NOT presented as a primary reason for the high number of amendments. The text suggests the Constitution is robust and farsighted.
Explanation
The text classifies amendments into three groups: technical/administrative, those arising from differing interpretations, and those based on political consensus. It also mentions that the Constitution is 'very robust' and 'farsighted,' countering the idea that it is fundamentally flawed. Therefore, constant overhauling due to inherent flaws is not a stated reason.
Which of the following is given as an example of a technical or administrative amendment that made no substantial difference to the original provisions?
Hint: Look for examples of minor modifications or clarifications.
Answer
The amendment increasing the retirement age of High Court judges from 60 to 62 years (15th amendment) is given as an example of a technical or administrative amendment.
Explanation
The text states, 'This is true of the amendment that increased the age of retirement of High Court judges from 60 to 62 years (15th amendment).' It categorizes this as an amendment 'of a technical or administrative nature and were only clarifications, explanations, and minor modifications etc. of the original provisions.'
In a parliamentary democracy like India, Parliament represents the people. How does the concept of 'rule of law' interact with parliamentary supremacy, according to the text?
Hint: Think about the checks and balances within a democracy.
Answer
The rule of law ensures that parliamentary supremacy operates within the framework provided by the Constitution, balancing the will of the people's representatives with constitutional limits.
Explanation
The text explains, 'In a parliamentary democracy, the Parliament represents the people and therefore, it is expected to have an upper hand over both Executive and Judiciary. At the same time, there is the text of the Constitution and it has given powers to other organs of the government. Therefore, the supremacy of the Parliament has to operate within this framework. Democracy is not only about votes and people’s representation. It is also about the principle of rule of law.'
Which amendment is cited as an example of changes made as a result of consensus among political parties, even during a period of coalition politics?
Hint: Look for an amendment mentioned in the 'Amendments through Political Consensus' section.
Answer
The Anti-defection Amendment (52nd Amendment) is cited as an example of changes made as a result of consensus among political parties.
Explanation
The text states, 'Starting with the anti-defection amendment (52nd amendment), this period saw a series of amendments in spite of the political turbulence.' It highlights this as an instance where evolving consensus led to amendments, even during coalition governments.
What are the two distinct conditions that define a 'special majority' required for most constitutional amendments in India?
Hint: Recall the specific numerical requirements mentioned for amendment bills.
Answer
A 'special majority' requires two conditions: support of at least half of the total strength of that House, and two-thirds of those who actually take part in voting.
Explanation
The text defines special majority: 'those voting in favour of the amendment bill should constitute at least half of the total strength of that House. Secondly, the supporters of the amendment bill must also constitute two-thirds of those who actually take part in voting.' Both conditions must be met separately in both Houses.
Dr. Ambedkar's quote, 'If those who are dissatisfied with the Constitution have only to obtain a 2/3 majority and if they cannot obtain even (that)..., their dissatisfaction with the Constitution cannot be deemed to be shared by the general public,' suggests which principle behind the amending procedure?
Hint: Consider what 'shared by the general public' implies in a democratic context.
Answer
Dr. Ambedkar's quote suggests that broad support among political parties and parliamentarians, reflecting public opinion, is the basic principle behind the amending procedure.
Explanation
The text explains Dr. Ambedkar's statement: 'He refers to ‘sharing (of the views) by the general public’. This indicates that behind the majority there is the principle of public opinion that governs decision-making.' It further elaborates, 'So, the basic principle behind the amending procedure is that it should be based on broad support among the political parties and parliamentarians.'
The document compares the Indian Constitution's durability with that of the Soviet Union and France. What common trend is observed in the constitutional history of the Soviet Union and France?
Hint: Recall how many constitutions each country had over a specific period.
Answer
Both the Soviet Union and France frequently rewrote their constitutions in response to political upheavals and changed circumstances, unlike India which has largely maintained the same constitution.
Explanation
The text notes, 'The Soviet Union had four constitutions in its life of 74 years' and adopted a new one after disintegration. Similarly, 'France had numerous constitutions in the last two centuries,' undergoing 'continuous experimentation' and forming new republics with new constitutions (1793, 1848, 1875, 1946, 1958). This contrasts sharply with India's single, enduring Constitution.
Which of the following was a significant change introduced by the 42nd Amendment?
Hint: Think about the major additions made during the Emergency period.
Answer
The 42nd Amendment introduced Fundamental Duties in the Constitution.
Explanation
The text explicitly states, 'In the chapter on Rights, you have read about Fundamental Duties. They were included in the Constitution by this amendment act.' The 42nd Amendment was known for its wide-ranging changes, including the addition of Fundamental Duties.
The 'basic structure' theory is described as an 'invention of the Judiciary.' How does the text justify the Judiciary's role in inventing such a non-existent thing and its acceptance by other institutions?
Hint: Consider the deeper meaning the court sought to uphold.
Answer
The text justifies the Judiciary's invention of the basic structure theory by highlighting the distinction between the 'letter' and the 'spirit' of the Constitution, emphasizing the intent behind the document over its mere text.
Explanation
The text states, 'Therein lies the distinction between letter and spirit. The Court came to the conclusion that in reading a text or document, we must respect the intent behind that document. A mere text of the law is less important than the social circumstances and aspirations that have produced that law or document.' The Basic Structure is seen as something without which the Constitution cannot be imagined.
How does the Basic Structure Doctrine further consolidate the balance between rigidity and flexibility in the Indian Constitution?
Hint: Think about what the doctrine protects and what it permits.
Answer
The Basic Structure Doctrine consolidates the balance by declaring certain parts unamendable (underlining rigidity) while allowing amendments to all other parts (underlining flexibility).
Explanation
The text explains, 'In a sense, the basic structure doctrine has further consolidated the balance between rigidity and flexibility: by saying that certain parts cannot be amended, it has underlined the rigid nature while by allowing amendments to all others it has underlined the flexible nature of the amending process.'
In the year 2000, a commission was appointed to review the working of the Constitution. Who chaired this commission?
Hint: Recall the name of the retired Chief Justice mentioned in the context of the review commission.
Answer
The commission appointed in the year 2000 to review the working of the Constitution was chaired by Justice M.N. Venkatachaliah.
Explanation
The text states, 'In the year 2000 a commission to review the working of the Constitution was appointed by the Government of India under the chairmanship of a retired Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Justice Venkatachaliah.'
Despite political controversy surrounding the 2000 review commission, it 'stuck to the theory of basic structure.' What does this indicate about the basic structure doctrine?
Hint: Consider the consequence of the commission adhering to the doctrine.
Answer
The commission's adherence to the basic structure theory indicates that it holds significant and accepted importance in India's constitutional practice, even amidst political debate.
Explanation
The text mentions, 'While a lot of political controversy surrounded this commission, the commission stuck to the theory of basic structure and did not suggest any measures that would endanger the basic structure of the Constitution. This shows the significance of the basic structure doctrine in our constitutional practice.' This highlights its deep entrenchment and acceptance.
According to the text, what common vision of India did leaders and people share at the time of the Constitution's making?
Hint: Recall the core values and aspirations mentioned by the founding fathers.
Answer
Leaders and people shared a common vision of India encompassing dignity and freedom of the individual, social and economic equality, well-being of all people, and unity based on national integrity.
Explanation
The text states, 'In the Constituent Assembly also, all the leaders mentioned this vision: dignity and freedom of the individual, social and economic equality, well-being of all people, unity based on national integrity.' This vision forms the bedrock of the Constitution's enduring respect and authority.
The conclusion states that 'politics in a democracy is necessarily full of debates and differences.' How does this relate to the process of constitutional amendment?
Hint: Think about the role of 'compromises and give-and-take' in democratic politics.
Answer
The statement highlights that debates are a sign of democratic health, and constitutional amendments often arise from resolving these differences through compromise and finding a common minimum ground.
Explanation
The text says, 'That is a sign of diversity, liveliness and openness. Democracy welcomes debates. At the same time, our political parties and leadership have shown maturity in setting limits to these debates... politics demands that everyone is prepared to moderate their extreme views, sharp positions and reach a common minimum ground. Only then democratic politics becomes possible.' This implies amendments are part of this dynamic, compromise-driven process.
What is the 'dual role' of the Constitution that leads to difficult questions about its status, as described in the text?
Hint: Consider the Constitution's function in reflecting societal values and guiding future governance.
Answer
The dual role of the Constitution is that it reflects the dreams and aspirations of society while also providing a framework for democratic governance for the future.
Explanation
The text states, 'It is true that the constitution reflects the dreams and aspirations of the concerned society. It must also be kept in mind that the constitution is a framework for the democratic governance of the society. In this sense, it is an instrument that societies create for themselves. This dual role of the constitution always leads to difficult questions about the status of the constitution.'
When was the Constitution of India adopted, and when did its implementation formally start?
Hint: Recall the specific dates mentioned at the beginning of the chapter when India's Constitution came into being.
Answer
The Constitution of India was adopted on 26 November 1949, and its implementation formally started from 26 January 1950.
Explanation
The text clearly states, 'The Constitution of India was adopted on 26 November 1949. Its implementation formally started from 26 January 1950.' These are foundational dates in Indian constitutional history.
What is the primary function of Article 368 of the Indian Constitution?
Hint: Recall the section titled 'How to Amend the Constitution'.
Answer
The primary function of Article 368 of the Indian Constitution is to lay down the procedure for amending the Constitution.
Explanation
The section 'How to Amend the Constitution' begins by quoting Article 368 and explicitly states that it outlines the procedure for Parliament to 'amend by way of addition, variation or repeal any provision of this Constitution in accordance with the procedure laid down in this article.'
The period between 2001 and 2003 saw many amendments despite being an era of coalition politics. What conclusion does the text draw from this observation?
Hint: Consider the role of shared understanding across political divides.
Answer
The text concludes that many amendments during 2001-2003 were based on an evolving consensus on certain issues, transcending the challenges of coalition politics.
Explanation
The text notes the 'peculiarity that even when there were coalition governments, this period saw so many amendments? The reason is because many of these amendments were based on an evolving consensus on certain issues.' This highlights that consensus can drive amendments even when a single party doesn't hold a vast majority.
Besides the principle of special majority, what other principle is popular among many modern constitutions for amending the constitution?
Hint: Recall the examples of Switzerland, Russia, and Italy.
Answer
Besides the principle of special majority, the principle of people's participation in the process of amending the constitution (e.g., through referendums) is popular among many modern constitutions.
Explanation
The text states, 'Two principles dominate the various procedures of amending the constitutions in most modern constitutions. ... The other principle that is popular among many modern constitutions is that of people’s participation in the process of amending the constitution. In Switzerland, people can even initiate an amendment. Other examples of countries where people initiate or approve amendment to the constitution are Russia and Italy, among others.'
How have 'political practice' and 'judicial rulings' contributed to the Indian Constitution being a 'living document'?
Hint: Think about how these factors enable adaptation and responsiveness.
Answer
Both political practice and judicial rulings have shown maturity and flexibility in implementing and interpreting the Constitution, allowing it to adapt to changing needs and remain a living document.
Explanation
The text explains, 'In the actual working of the Constitution, there has been enough flexibility of interpretations. Both political practice and judicial rulings have shown maturity and flexibility in implementing the Constitution. These factors have made our Constitution a living document rather than a closed and static rulebook.'
If Parliament wishes to amend a clause related to citizenship, which amendment procedure would most likely be required, based on the general principles outlined in the text?
Hint: Consider if it affects federal distribution of power or is a core national provision.
Answer
Amending a clause related to citizenship would most likely require a special majority in Parliament only, as it is a significant but not a federal provision.
Explanation
The text outlines three amendment types. Simple majority is for specific articles like state formation. Special majority + state ratification is for federal provisions. Most other significant provisions, like citizenship, fall under the special majority in Parliament (Article 368) category, as they are not explicitly listed for simple majority and do not directly alter the federal balance or representation of states.
The period between 1970 and 1975 frequently saw Parliament making amendments to overcome adverse interpretations by the judiciary. What was a key area of conflict during this time?
Hint: Recall the three issues of difference mentioned in the text.
Answer
A key area of conflict between Parliament and the judiciary during 1970-1975 was the relationship between fundamental rights and directive principles.
Explanation
The text states, 'In the chapter on the Judiciary, you have already studied the issues of difference between the Judiciary and the Parliament: one was the relationship between fundamental rights and directive principles, the other was the scope of right to private property and the third was the scope of Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution.'
The amendment procedure in India underlines an important principle: 'only elected representatives of the people are empowered to consider and take final decisions on the question of amendments.' What is this principle known as?
Hint: Think about the body where elected representatives primarily make laws.
Answer
The principle that only elected representatives are empowered to decide on amendments is known as parliamentary sovereignty.
Explanation
The text states, 'This makes the amendment procedure relatively simple. But more importantly, this process underlines an important principle: only elected representatives of the people are empowered to consider and take final decisions on the question of amendments. Thus, sovereignty of elected representatives (parliamentary sovereignty) is the basis of the amendment procedure.'
What is identified as the answer to the 'riddle' of the Constitution's durability, even after many societal changes?
Hint: Recall the core characteristic of a 'living document'.
Answer
The answer to the Constitution's durability is its ability to be dynamic, open to interpretations, and responsive to changing situations.
Explanation
The text states, 'Even after so many changes in the society, the Constitution continues to work effectively because of this ability to be dynamic, to be open to interpretations and the ability to respond to the changing situation.' This inherent flexibility and responsiveness ensure its longevity.
The Constitution makers provided for different ways of amending the Constitution. What was a key consideration leading to this differentiation?
Hint: Think about the varying importance of different constitutional provisions.
Answer
A key consideration for different amendment procedures was to allow for easy correction of mistakes and temporary provisions, while simultaneously protecting core federal principles and other essential features from arbitrary change.
Explanation
The text explains that makers wanted to easily amend mistakes or temporary provisions, but also recognized that 'rights and powers of the States could not be changed without the consent of the States' and 'some other features were so central to the spirit of the Constitution that the Constitution makers were anxious to protect these from change.' This led to differing levels of rigidity.
Which amendment brought down the minimum age for voting from 21 to 18 years?
Hint: Recall the amendment number mentioned for the change in voting age.
Answer
The 61st Amendment brought down the minimum age for voting from 21 to 18 years.
Explanation
The text mentions this as an example of amendments through political consensus: 'these amendments include the 61st amendment bringing down the minimum age for voting from 21 to 18 years.'
How did the political leadership demonstrate maturity regarding the Basic Structure Doctrine after the Kesavananda case and the Minerva Mills case?
Hint: Consider the long-term acceptance of the doctrine.
Answer
The political leadership demonstrated maturity by accepting the idea of an inviolable basic structure, even when there was talk about reviewing the Constitution.
Explanation
The text notes that 'Political parties, political leaders, the government, and Parliament, accepted the idea of inviolable basic structure. Even when there was talk about ‘review’ of the Constitution, that exercise could not cross the limits set by the theory of the basic structure.' This signifies a mature acceptance of judicial limits.
What was one of the ways the 42nd Amendment affected the Judiciary?
Hint: Recall the controversial nature of the 42nd Amendment and its attempts to assert parliamentary supremacy.
Answer
The 42nd Amendment put restrictions on the review powers of the Judiciary.
Explanation
The text states, 'The 42nd amendment also put restrictions on the review powers of the Judiciary.' This was part of the controversial changes made during the Emergency period, aiming to assert parliamentary supremacy over judicial scrutiny.
The Supreme Court introduced the idea of 'creamy layer' for reservations. This is an example of which of the following?
Hint: Think about how the courts clarify and define existing provisions.
Answer
The Supreme Court's introduction of the 'creamy layer' concept for reservations is an example of an informal amendment through judicial interpretation.
Explanation
The text explains, 'in the case involving reservations for other backward classes, the Supreme Court introduced the idea of creamy layer and ruled that persons belonging to this category were not entitled to benefits under reservations. In the same manner, the Judiciary has contributed to an informal amendment by interpreting various provisions...' This shows how judicial rulings shape constitutional meaning without formal legislative changes.
The text notes that 'constitutional changes are very closely linked to political developments.' What does this imply about the amendment process?
Hint: Consider the examples of frequent changes in France or the periods of high amendments in India.
Answer
This implies that political circumstances, power dynamics, and the ability to forge consensus often drive the need for and the success of constitutional amendments.
Explanation
The text links constitutional changes to 'political developments,' citing France's numerous constitutions after revolutions and Napoleon, and India's periods of high amendments during Congress domination and later coalition politics. This demonstrates that political realities significantly influence the amendment trajectory.
The original Constitution assumed the President would normally abide by the advice of the Council of Ministers. What did a later amendment to Article 74(1) clarify regarding this?
Hint: Recall the clarification made about the President's role in a parliamentary government.
Answer
A later amendment to Article 74(1) clarified that the advice of the Council of Ministers will be binding on the President.
Explanation
The text states, 'This was only reiterated by a later amendment when Article 74 (1) was amended to clarify that the advice of the Council of Ministers will be binding on the President (President shall act in accordance with the advice of the Council of Ministers).' This amendment formalized an existing practice.
If Parliament intends to amend a provision regarding the representation of States in Parliament, which amendment procedure would be necessary?
Hint: Consider if the amendment impacts the federal structure or state powers.
Answer
Amending a provision regarding the representation of States in Parliament would require a special majority in Parliament and ratification by legislatures of half the states.
Explanation
The text specifies that 'When an amendment aims to modify an article related to distribution of powers between the States and the central government, or articles related to representation, it is necessary that the States must be consulted and that they give their consent.' This implies the procedure involving ratification by half the states.
The Judiciary insisted that pro-people measures should not bypass legal procedures, arguing that bypassing laws, even with good intentions, can lead to arbitrary use of power. What essential aspect of democracy does this highlight?
Hint: Think about the balance between achieving public good and maintaining legal safeguards.
Answer
This highlights the essential democratic aspect of checks on arbitrary use of power and adherence to the rule of law, ensuring that even well-intentioned actions follow established legal procedures.
Explanation
The text explains, 'The Judiciary insisted that all this has to take place within the framework provided by the Constitution and pro-people measures should not bypass legal procedures, because, once you bypass laws even with good intentions, that can give an excuse to the power holders to use their power arbitrarily. And democracy is as much about checks on arbitrary use of power as it is about the well-being of the people.'
Compared to nations like the Soviet Union and France, which frequently rewrote their constitutions, the Indian approach is characterized by:
Hint: Consider the core message of 'Constitution as a Living Document'.
Answer
The Indian approach is characterized by maintaining the same basic framework of the Constitution while allowing for amendments and interpretations to adapt to changing needs.
Explanation
The text contrasts India's single enduring Constitution with countries that rewrote theirs. It highlights that India has managed to be 'governed by the same Constitution' for over 69 years because 'the Constitution has remained intact and its basic premises have not changed' despite 'many such amendments' and its ability to evolve.
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