The Chief Justice of India has declined to discuss the Basic Structure Doctrine during a public event, opting instead to express his views through judicial rulings. The Basic Structure Doctrine, established by the Supreme Court in the 1973 Kesavananda Bharati case, asserts that certain fundamental features of the Indian Constitution cannot be altered by Parliament. It has evolved over time, serving as the foundation for judicial review of constitutional amendments. Notably, it was a response to a series of amendments aimed at expanding parliamentary power. The doctrine safeguards key principles like the separation of powers, judicial review, and the rule of law.
Facts/Terms for UPSC Prelims
- Kesavananda Bharati Case: This landmark 1973 Supreme Court case, also known as the Fundamental Rights Case, established the Basic Structure Doctrine and limited Parliament’s power to amend certain fundamental features of the Constitution.
- Fundamental Rights: These are constitutional rights guaranteed to Indian citizens, and they include individual freedoms and protections from government intrusion.
- Minerva Mills Case: The Minerva Mills case (1980) is significant because it invalidated a provision in the 42nd Amendment Act that sought to exclude judicial review of constitutional amendments. This reaffirmed the importance of judicial review as a basic feature of the Constitution.
- Waman Rao Case: The Waman Rao case (1981) clarified that the Basic Structure Doctrine applies to constitutional amendments enacted after April 24, 1973, the date of the Kesavananda Bharati judgment.
- Components of the Basic Structure: These are essential elements of the Indian Constitution that cannot be altered by Parliament. Some of these components include the separation of powers, judicial review, the principle of equality, and the independence of the judiciary, among others.