GS-II · UPSC Mains PYQPolity 2019 15 Marks
“Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power.” In the light of this statement explain whether Par- liament under Article 368 of the Constitution can destroy the Basic Structure of the Constitution by expanding its amending power?
Microtheme: Amendments · Asked in UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination 2019.
Model Answer Approach
- Decode demand: Identify the directive verb (discuss / examine / critically analyse) and bound the scope to Amendments.
- Intro (40–50 words): Define the core concept; anchor with a definition, data point, or constitutional/historical reference.
- Body: 2–3 thematic sub-heads with crisp points, examples and counter-arguments. Add a relevant case study or committee/report.
- Conclusion (30–40 words): Forward-looking — recommendations, way forward, or a constitutional/ethical anchor.
Structure Checklist
- ✓ Definition / context in intro
- ✓ Minimum 1 data point or report
- ✓ Multi-dimensional arguments
- ✓ Counter-view / limitations
- ✓ Diagram, flowchart or map (if applicable)
- ✓ Way forward in conclusion
Keywords to Use
parliamentconstitutionlimitedenlargedabsolutestatementexplainwhether
Related UPSC Mains Questions
From the same microtheme — Amendments.
- Indian Constitution has conferred the amending power on the ordinary legislative institutions with a few procedural hurdles. In view of this statement, examine the procedural and substantive limitations on the amending power of the Parliament to change the Constitution.📅 2025 · 📌 15
- Explain the salient features of the constitution(One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough ‘to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services’?📅 2017 · 📌 15
