India Exam Junction
15. The implied meaning of 'basic structure' doctrine as established by the Supreme Court is:
The power to define 'basic structure' is vested with the state legislative assemblies only
Process prescribed in the Articles 368 and 369 cannot be altered
Article 368 does not enable Parliament to alter the 'basic structure' of the constitution
The Supreme Court is within its powers to alter the 'basic structure‟ of the constitution on its own
Correct Answer :
Article 368 does not enable Parliament to alter the 'basic structure' of the constitution
Solution
The 'basic structure' doctrine, established by the Supreme Court of India in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), asserts that while Parliament has the power to amend the Constitution under Article 368, it cannot alter the basic structure or essential features of the Constitution. These features include principles like democracy, rule of law, separation of powers, and fundamental rights.