UPSC Previous Year Question | Prelims GS | 2020

Consider the following statements: 1. The Constitution of India defines its 'basic structure' in terms of federalism, secularism, fundamental rights and democracy. 2. The Constitution of India provides for 'judicial review' to safeguard the citizens' liberties and to preserve the ideals on which the Constitution is based. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. 1 only
  2. 2 only
  3. Both 1 and 2
  4. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer

Correct Answer

2 only

Explanation

The Constitution nowhere defines the 'basic structure'. The doctrine was evolved by the Supreme Court (Kesavananda Bharati, 1973) and is open-ended, so statement 1 is wrong. Judicial review is expressly provided in the Constitution to protect fundamental rights and constitutional supremacy, so statement 2 is correct.

Topics: basic structure doctrine and judicial review, basic structure & judicial review, constitution - features & philosophy, polity & governance