What was the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)?a)It...
The Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973) was a landmark judgment that introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine, which safeguards essential features of the Constitution from being amended. This doctrine ensures that core elements such as the supremacy of the Constitution, democratic values, secularism, federalism, and judicial independence remain intact and cannot be altered through amendments. The case significantly impacted the constitutional landscape of India by establishing limits on the amending power of the Parliament and reinforcing the foundational principles of the Constitution.
What was the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)?a)It...
Significance of the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
The Kesavananda Bharati case is a landmark judgment by the Supreme Court of India that has shaped the constitutional framework and governance in the country.
Establishment of the Basic Structure Doctrine
- The case introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine, which asserts that certain fundamental features of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed by any amendment.
- This doctrine serves as a safeguard against the arbitrary use of power by the Parliament, ensuring that the core values of democracy, federalism, secularism, and the rule of law remain intact.
Impact on Parliamentary Power
- The judgment delineated the limits of Parliament's power to amend the Constitution, establishing that while amendments are permissible, they cannot infringe upon the Basic Structure.
- This has led to a more balanced distribution of power between the legislature and the judiciary, reinforcing the role of the latter as the guardian of the Constitution.
Judicial Review and Constitutional Supremacy
- The ruling reaffirmed the principle of judicial review, empowering the judiciary to review amendments made by Parliament to ensure they do not violate the Basic Structure.
- It reinforced the supremacy of the Constitution over parliamentary legislation, thus promoting a culture of constitutionalism.
In summary, the Kesavananda Bharati case is significant due to its establishment of the Basic Structure Doctrine, which protects the fundamental principles of the Constitution from potential legislative overreach. This case remains a cornerstone in the interpretation and application of constitutional law in India.