GK Question

polity hard mcq

In which landmark case did the Supreme Court propound the 'Basic Structure Doctrine' limiting Parliament's amending power?

  1. Golaknath v. State of Punjab (1967)
  2. Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
  3. Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980)
  4. Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain (1975)

Answer: Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)

Kesavananda Bharati (1973): 13-judge bench held Parliament can amend any part of Constitution but cannot alter its 'basic structure'. Basic features include: supremacy of Constitution, republican/democratic form, secularism, federalism, separation of powers, judicial review, rule of law, individual dignity. Landmark judgment balancing parliamentary sovereignty with constitutional supremacy; foundation of Indian constitutionalism.

Topic Basic Structure Doctrine - Kesavananda Bharati Case
Exam Relevance Most important constitutional law case frequently asked in UPSC Mains and Judiciary exams
More in polity Back to all questions