Why have there been so many Amendments?

Are Constitutions Static?

Nations often rewrite their constitutions due to changing circumstances, societal shifts, or political upheavals. For instance, the Soviet Union had multiple constitutions during its existence, while Russia adopted a new constitution after its dissolution. In contrast, India’s Constitution, adopted in 1949 and implemented in 1950, has remained unchanged for over 69 years....

How To Amened the Indian Constitution?

The framers of our Constitution aimed to strike a delicate balance between flexibility and rigidity. They recognized the need for amendments to rectify errors or address temporary provisions while safeguarding against unnecessary and frequent changes. The Indian Constitution embodies both characteristics, being flexible in some aspects and rigid in others....

Why have there been so many Amendments?

On January 26, 2019, the Constitution of India celebrated 69 years since its adoption, having undergone 103 amendments by January 12, 2019. Despite the relatively challenging process for amending the Constitution, the frequency of amendments appears high. An examination of the history of amendments reveals interesting patterns: between 1970 and 1990, there was a notable surge in amendments, with two periods standing out—1974 to 1976 and 2001 to 2003—when ten amendments occurred within three years each....

Contents of Amendments Made so far

Technical or Administrative Amendments: These amendments clarify or modify original provisions but do not substantially alter them. Examples include increasing the retirement age of High Court judges and adjusting salaries of judges. Amendments to Address Judicial Interpretations: Amendments are made to underline specific interpretations of the Constitution conflicting with those of the judiciary. This arises from differing interpretations between the judiciary and the government, necessitating clarification through amendments. Amendments through Political Consensus: Amendments reflect evolving political philosophies and societal aspirations, often based on consensus among political parties. Instances include anti-defection amendments, lowering the voting age, and expanding reservations in jobs and admissions. Controversial Amendments: Amendments from 1970 to 1980 sparked legal and political controversies, particularly during the internal emergency from June 1975. Controversial amendments include the 38th, 39th, and 42nd amendments, which sought to make significant changes to the Constitution. The 42nd amendment, in particular, was viewed as a wide-ranging attempt to override Supreme Court rulings and rewrite parts of the Constitution. The 43rd and 44th amendments were later introduced to repeal most changes made by these controversial amendments, restoring constitutional balance....

Basic Structure & Evolution of the Constitution

The theory of the basic structure of the Constitution, established by the Judiciary in the Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973, has significantly influenced the evolution of the Indian Constitution. This theory:...

Constitution As A Living Document

The Indian Constitution is often referred to as a living document because, like a living being, it adapts and responds to changing circumstances over time. Despite evolving societal norms and experiences, the Constitution continues to function effectively due to its dynamic nature, openness to interpretation, and ability to address contemporary challenges. This characteristic is essential in a democratic framework where practices and ideas evolve, and the Constitution must accommodate these changes while safeguarding democratic principles....

Constitution as a Living Document- FAQs

Why are amendments necessary for the Constitution?...