Worksheet Solutions: Constitution as a Living Document | Political Science Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: The Soviet Union had ______ constitutions during its existence.
Ans: four
The text mentions that the Soviet Union had four constitutions, indicating that it underwent multiple constitutional changes.

Q2: The Constitution of India was adopted on __________.
Ans: 26 November 1949
The Constitution of India was adopted on this specific date, as stated in the text.

Q3: The Indian Constitution is considered a ______ document.
Ans: living
The Indian Constitution is described as a "living" document in the text because it can adapt to changing circumstances.

Q4: Article 368 pertains to the ______ power of the parliament.
Ans: amending
Article 368 deals with the amendment process of the Indian Constitution, as mentioned in the text.

Q5: The Indian Constitution is both ______ and ______.
Ans: flexible and rigid
The text discusses how the Indian Constitution strikes a balance between flexibility and rigidity, allowing for necessary changes while safeguarding against unnecessary ones.

Q6: To amend the Constitution, ______ types of special majorities are required.
Ans: two
The text specifies that two types of special majorities are needed for amending the Constitution, as detailed further in the text.

Q7: In cases related to the distribution of powers, it is mandatory to consult with the ______.
Ans: states
The text highlights that in cases related to federalism and the distribution of powers, the states must be consulted for their consent before amendments can be made.

Q8: The theory of basic structure emerged from ______ interpretation.
Ans: judicial
The concept of the basic structure of the Constitution was developed through judicial interpretation, as clarified in the text.

Q9: Democracy is not only about electing representatives but also about the ______.
Ans: rule of law
The text emphasizes that democracy is not just about elections but also about adhering to the rule of law.

Q10: Political institutions must be ______ to the people.
Ans: accountable
The text underscores the importance of political institutions being accountable to the people, a fundamental aspect of democracy.

Match the Column 

Q1: Match the following terms to their definitions:

Ans: 1. Special Majority - c. The ultimate authority to determine if an amendment violates the fundamental structure of the Constitution. 
A special majority, in the context of constitutional amendments, refers to a requirement that goes beyond a simple majority vote. It typically means that to pass certain types of amendments, a higher threshold of support is necessary. This higher threshold ensures that fundamental or core aspects of the Constitution cannot be easily altered. It is the ultimate authority to safeguard the basic structure of the Constitution from hasty or ill-considered changes.
2. Parliamentary Sovereignty - e. The principle that only elected representatives of the people have the power to make final decisions on amendments. 
Parliamentary sovereignty is a fundamental concept in a parliamentary democracy. It means that the elected representatives in the legislature (parliament) have the ultimate authority to make and amend laws, including changes to the constitution. This principle emphasizes that the power to make final decisions, including constitutional amendments, rests with elected officials who represent the will of the people.
3. Basic Structure - a. The ultimate authority to determine if an amendment violates the fundamental structure of the Constitution.
The Kesavananda Bharati case in India is a landmark legal decision that introduced the concept of the "basic structure" of the Constitution. It established that there are certain core principles and features of a constitution that cannot be amended or altered. These fundamental elements form the basic structure of the constitution, and any amendments that violate or undermine these principles can be deemed unconstitutional.
4. Amendment Process - b. Process of changing, adding, varying, or repealing provisions of the Constitution. 
The amendment process is the formal procedure through which changes are made to a constitution. This process typically involves specific steps, such as proposing amendments, gaining the necessary majority support, and often subjecting the amendments to legal review or public scrutiny. It allows for the modification, addition, variation, or repeal of provisions within the constitution.
5. Democracy - f. A form of government where the people elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. 
Democracy is a system of government in which the citizens of a country have the right to vote and elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. It is characterized by the participation of the people in the decision-making process and the protection of individual rights and freedoms.
6. Judicial Interpretation - a. The principle that all political institutions should be accountable to the people and maintain a balance with one another. 
Judicial interpretation refers to the role of the judiciary (courts) in interpreting and applying the law, including the constitution. Courts play a vital role in ensuring that laws and constitutional provisions are consistent with legal principles and fundamental rights. While it may not directly relate to the definition provided, it's essential for upholding the rule of law and checking the constitutionality of amendments.
7. Flexibility - d. A balance between flexibility and rigidity in the Constitution. 
Flexibility, in the context of a constitution, refers to the capacity of the constitution to be amended or changed relatively easily. A flexible constitution can adapt to changing circumstances and needs without excessive hurdles. It's typically contrasted with rigidity, which implies that the constitution is more difficult to amend.
8. Rigidity - g. A key concept established by the Kesavananda Bharati case.
Rigidity, in the context of a constitution, means that the constitution is not easily amendable. It often requires a special majority or a complex amendment process to make changes. The balance between flexibility and rigidity is crucial in ensuring that a constitution can evolve when necessary while also protecting its fundamental principles.
9. Rule of Law - h. The principle that all political institutions should be accountable to the people and maintain a balance with one another. 
The rule of law is a fundamental principle that emphasizes that all individuals, including those in political institutions, are subject to and accountable under the law. It ensures that no one, including government officials, is above the law. While it doesn't directly relate to the provided definition, it's an essential concept for maintaining the balance and accountability of political institutions.
10. Federalism - i. A system where power is divided between a central government and individual states or regions. 
Federalism is a system of government in which political power is divided between a central or national government and individual state or regional governments. This division of power allows each level of government to have specific responsibilities and authority, often outlined in the constitution. Federalism aims to strike a balance between centralization and regional autonomy.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: The Indian Constitution is considered a living document.
Reason: It can be easily modified to accommodate changes.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The Indian Constitution being a living document is accurately stated in the assertion. The reason provided correctly explains why it is considered a living document - its ability to accommodate changes.

Q2: Assertion: Amendments to the Indian Constitution require broad consensus and the participation of states.
Reason: States are not involved in the amendment process.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (b)
The assertion is true as amendments indeed require consensus and state participation. However, the reason is false, as states are involved in the amendment process.

Q3: Assertion: Judicial interpretation has impacted our understanding of the Indian Constitution.
Reason: The Constitution explicitly defines the basic structure.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion correctly states that judicial interpretation has influenced our understanding of the Constitution. The reason correctly explains why this is the case - the basic structure is not explicitly defined in the Constitution.

Q4: Assertion: Democracy is better than the old feudal system.
Reason: Democracy ensures more equality among the people.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion accurately states that democracy is preferable to feudal systems. The reason correctly explains why this is the case - democracy promotes greater equality among the people.

Very Short Answers Type Questions

Q1: How many constitutions did the Soviet Union have?
Ans: The text mentions that the Soviet Union underwent multiple constitutional changes, leading to four different constitutions.

Q2: When was the Constitution of India adopted?
Ans: The specific date of the adoption of the Indian Constitution is provided in the text.

Q3: What is the primary question raised about the Indian Constitution's longevity?
Ans: The text discusses the question raised about the robustness of the Indian Constitution and its need for changes.

Q4: Explain the concept of a "living document" in the context of the Indian Constitution.
Ans: The text defines the Indian Constitution as "living" due to its adaptability to changing circumstances.

Q5: What does Article 368 pertain to?
Ans: Article 368 is associated with the amending power of the Indian Parliament.

Q6: Define the terms "flexibility" and "rigidity" in the context of constitutions.
Ans: The text defines flexibility and rigidity in the context of constitutions.

Q7: Why is it important for the Constitution to be amendable?
Ans: The text explains that amendments are necessary to correct errors or shortcomings in the Constitution.

Q8: In what cases is it mandatory to consult with the states for amendments?
Ans: The text highlights the need to involve states in amendments related to federalism.

Q9: How many types of special majorities are required to amend the Constitution?
Ans: The text specifies that two types of special majorities are needed for amending the Constitution.

Q10: What is the fundamental principle underlying the amending process of the Constitution?
Ans: The text emphasizes the need for broad consensus and support for amendments to the Constitution.

Short Answers Type Questions

Q1: Explain the balance between flexibility and rigidity in the Indian Constitution.
Ans: The Indian Constitution strikes a balance between flexibility and rigidity by allowing amendments through a prescribed process. Some provisions require a special majority, ensuring rigidity to protect the core structure, while others can be amended by a simple majority, providing flexibility for adapting to changing needs.

Q2: Describe the process of amending the Indian Constitution, including the role of the Parliament.
Ans: The process of amending the Indian Constitution involves a proposal by either house of Parliament, followed by a two-thirds majority vote in each house. The President's approval is necessary. Parliament plays a central role in the process, reflecting the principle of parliamentary sovereignty.

Q3: Why is the protection of fundamental rights important in the amendment process?
Ans: Protecting fundamental rights is vital in the amendment process to prevent arbitrary changes that might infringe on citizens' liberties. Fundamental rights act as a safeguard, making it more difficult to amend provisions that could compromise individual freedoms.

Q4: What is the theory of basic structure, and how has it affected the Constitution's evolution?
Ans: The theory of basic structure, established by the Kesavananda Bharati case, holds that certain core features of the Indian Constitution are immune to amendments. This doctrine has preserved the Constitution's essential values and prevented radical alterations.

Q5: Discuss the role of judicial interpretation in shaping the Constitution.
Ans: Judicial interpretation, particularly by the Supreme Court, has played a significant role in shaping the Indian Constitution. Through landmark decisions, the judiciary has clarified and expanded constitutional provisions, ensuring their relevance and adaptability to modern challenges.

Q6: How does parliamentary democracy relate to the Constitution as a living document?
Ans: Parliamentary democracy in India makes the Constitution a living document. Elected representatives in Parliament continually engage in lawmaking and amendments, allowing the Constitution to evolve and adapt to the needs and aspirations of the people.

Q7: Explain the significance of involving states in amendments related to federalism and fundamental rights.
Ans: Involving states in amendments related to federalism and fundamental rights is crucial to maintain a balance of power and preserve the federal structure. States' consent or recommendations help ensure that amendments do not disproportionately centralize power or undermine the rights of individual states.

Q8: Why has the Indian Constitution undergone a high number of amendments, and what are some significant amendments in recent years?
Ans: The Indian Constitution has undergone numerous amendments due to changing societal needs and evolving political scenarios. Some recent significant amendments include the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act, which transformed the tax system, and the abrogation of Article 370, which altered the special status of Jammu and Kashmir. These amendments reflect the evolving nature of the Indian Constitution.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Describe the concept of a "living document" in the context of constitutions and provide examples of how the Indian Constitution has demonstrated its adaptability.
Ans: The Concept of a "Living Document" in the Indian Constitution:

• The Indian Constitution is often described as a "living document" because it possesses the unique ability to adapt and respond to the changing needs of society and the nation as a whole. This adaptability is rooted in the far-sightedness of the Constitution makers who provided solutions for a multitude of future situations. However, the concept of a living document also embraces the necessity of modifications to accommodate changing requirements.
• The Indian Constitution's living nature is evident in its ability to evolve over time. Unlike a static and rigid rulebook, the Indian Constitution is flexible and dynamic, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Indian society and polity. Its flexibility allows it to accommodate changes and new challenges that were unforeseen when it was initially adopted.
• For example, the 73rd and 74th amendments to the Constitution, introduced in the 1990s, decentralized governance by empowering local self-government institutions. This change was necessary to address the growing demands for local participation and autonomy. Similarly, amendments have been made to address issues related to reservation policies, citizenship, and more, responding to the evolving needs and demands of the people.
• The flexibility of interpretations in the actual working of the Constitution has allowed for both political practice and judicial rulings to demonstrate maturity and adaptability in implementing the Constitution. This is why the Indian Constitution is considered a living document, one that can respond to new eventualities rather than being a closed and static rulebook. It is this ability to evolve and adapt that makes it relevant to the changing landscape of India, ensuring that it continues to serve as the guiding framework for the nation's governance.

Q2: Discuss the need for a balance between flexibility and rigidity in the Constitution, and how the Indian Constitution achieves this balance.
Ans: Balance between Flexibility and Rigidity in the Indian Constitution:

• The Indian Constitution strikes a delicate balance between flexibility and rigidity, a balance that is crucial for the stability of the legal framework while also allowing for necessary adaptations to changing circumstances. Flexibility, in this context, refers to the Constitution's ability to accommodate changes, amendments, and reforms, while rigidity implies resistance to frequent and unnecessary changes that could destabilize the governance structure.
• The Indian Constitution's flexibility is evident in its provisions for amendments. It allows for the modification, addition, variation, or repeal of any provision through its constituent power, as outlined in Article 368. This flexibility is necessary to keep the Constitution relevant and responsive to emerging issues and challenges. For instance, amendments have been made to expand the scope of reservations, change the minimum voting age, and address various socio-political issues.
• However, this flexibility is carefully balanced with rigidity. The Constitution should not be easily amenable to constant changes, as this could lead to instability and political uncertainty. To safeguard against unnecessary and frequent changes, certain safeguards are in place. For instance, some amendments require a special majority in the Parliament, which means a significant level of support among political parties and parliamentarians is necessary. Additionally, for amendments related to the distribution of powers between the central government and the states or fundamental rights, the consent of states is mandatory. These safeguards ensure that the core principles and structures of the Constitution remain stable and resistant to arbitrary modifications.
• This balance between flexibility and rigidity is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the Constitution while allowing it to evolve when necessary. It prevents hasty and politically motivated amendments while permitting thoughtful and consensual changes that are in the best interest of the nation.

Q3: Explain the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati case and its impact on the Indian Constitution's basic structure.
Ans: Significance of the Protection of Fundamental Rights in the Amendment Process:

• The protection of fundamental rights is a cornerstone of any democratic constitution, including the Indian Constitution. These rights are essential to safeguard individual liberties, promote social justice, and ensure equality. In the context of the amendment process, the significance of protecting fundamental rights becomes even more pronounced.
• When amending the Constitution, especially when the amendments affect fundamental rights, it is crucial to ensure that these rights are not easily infringed upon. Fundamental rights are the bedrock of a just and democratic society, and they provide citizens with essential protections against government overreach and arbitrary actions. Therefore, their protection is paramount.
• Amendments to fundamental rights should not be taken lightly, as they have the potential to impact the core principles of the Constitution. Consequently, it is essential to have specific safeguards and requirements for such amendments. For instance, amendments that affect fundamental rights require not only a special majority in the Parliament but also the consent of states in certain cases.
• This dual requirement ensures that fundamental rights are not diluted or altered without the broad consensus of political parties, parliamentarians, and the states. It upholds the sanctity of these rights and prevents their misuse for political or ideological purposes. This safeguard is in line with the democratic principles of justice, liberty, and equality, which the Constitution aims to protect and promote.
• In summary, the protection of fundamental rights in the amendment process is a critical aspect of the Indian Constitution, as it maintains the integrity of these rights and ensures that they are not compromised without due diligence and consensus among stakeholders.

Q4: Analyze the challenges and criticisms related to the high number of amendments to the Indian Constitution and provide insights into the reasons behind these amendments.
Ans: Impact of the Kesavananda Bharati Case on the Constitution's Basic Structure:

• The Kesavananda Bharati case is one of the most significant and far-reaching judicial decisions in the history of the Indian Constitution. This landmark case has had a profound impact on the Constitution's basic structure and the scope of parliamentary powers.
• In the Kesavananda Bharati case, the Supreme Court of India ruled that while the Parliament possesses the authority to amend the Constitution, it cannot do so in a manner that violates or destroys the Constitution's "basic structure."
  This decision had a series of significant implications:
  • Limitation on Parliament's Authority: The case placed a fundamental limitation on the scope of parliamentary power to amend the Constitution. It means that the Parliament can make changes to the Constitution, but it cannot alter its core principles, fundamental features, or the essential framework that defines the Constitution.
  • Preservation of Core Principles: The Kesavananda Bharati case ensured that key principles and values enshrined in the Constitution, such as democracy, secularism, federalism, and the separation of powers, remain intact. It prevents any attempt to subvert or undermine these fundamental aspects of the Constitution.
  • Supreme Court's Authority: The case also established that the judiciary has the ultimate authority to determine whether an amendment violates the basic structure. This means that the judiciary plays a critical role in upholding the integrity and sanctity of the Constitution.
  • Stability and Continuity: The Kesavananda Bharati case brought stability and continuity to the Constitution. It ensures that while amendments can be made, they must respect the foundational principles that underpin the Constitution. This prevents arbitrary or sweeping changes that could disrupt the constitutional order.
  • Clarity in Amendment Process: The case introduced clarity into the amendment process. It delineated the boundaries within which amendments must operate and provided a mechanism for the judiciary to review the constitutionality of amendments.
• In summary, the Kesavananda Bharati case has fortified the Indian Constitution's basic structure and prevented any excessive or radical changes that could undermine the core principles of the Constitution. It has maintained the Constitution's stability and ensured that it remains true to its foundational values while permitting necessary and consensual amendments. This case is a testament to the robustness of the Indian Constitution and the resilience of its democratic framework.