Unit 2 Flashcards
(83 cards)
When you do any change in the constitution of India where would it be reflected, in which Article?
Article 368
How Many Articles are there currently in COI?
470 Articles
25 Parts
12 Schedule
What does the Basic Structure of the Indian Constitution signify?
It signifies core principles that cannot be changed, even by Parliament.
These principles serve as the foundation of the Constitution.
What happens if Parliament tries to amend the Constitution?
Parliament can amend the Constitution, but cannot alter its Basic Structure.
This principle was established in the Kesavananda Bharati case.
Which case established the concept of the Basic Structure in the Indian Constitution?
The Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973.
This case was pivotal in defining the limits of Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution.
True or False: Parliament can destroy the Basic Structure of the Constitution.
False.
The Supreme Court ruled that while Parliament can amend the Constitution, it cannot destroy its Basic Structure.
Fill in the blank: The Basic Structure of the Indian Constitution acts as a _______.
[foundation or backbone]
These principles support the integrity and identity of the Constitution.
What type of system does India’s Constitution create?
A federal system, meaning power is shared between the Centre (Union) and the States.
What are the key features of a federation included in India’s Constitution?
- Two governments (Centre and States)
- Division of powers
- Written Constitution
- Supreme authority of the Constitution
- Constitution is rigid (can’t be changed easily)
- Independent courts
- Two houses of Parliament (bicameralism)
How many governments are there in India’s federal system?
Two governments: the Centre and the States.
What is meant by the division of powers in India’s Constitution?
Powers are divided between the Centre and the States.
What type of Constitution does India have?
A written Constitution.
What is the supreme authority in India’s legal framework?
The Constitution.
Is India’s Constitution rigid or flexible?
It is rigid, meaning it can’t be changed easily.
What role do independent courts play in India’s Constitution?
They ensure the rule of law and protect rights.
What is bicameralism in the context of India’s Parliament?
India has two houses of Parliament.
Is India a pure federation?
No, India is not a pure federation.
What are some unitary features of India?
India has several unitary features, including:
1. The Centre is more powerful than states.
2. Only one Constitution for both Centre and States.
3. Only one citizenship for all Indians.
4. The Centre appoints the Governor of each state.
5. Emergency provisions make the Centre more powerful.
6. One judiciary for the whole country.
7. All-India Services (like IAS, IPS) are controlled by the Centre.
Is the word ‘federation’ used in the Constitution?
No, the word ‘federation’ is not used anywhere in the Constitution.
What does Article 1 call India?
Article 1 calls India a ‘Union of States’.
What does ‘Union of States’ imply about the formation of India?
It implies that India was not formed by an agreement between states.
Can states leave or break away from India?
No, states cannot leave or break away from India.
What system does India follow?
India follows the British Parliamentary System, not the American Presidential System.
Where is the parliamentary system used in India?
This system is used both at the Centre (Parliament) and in the States (State Assemblies).