Legal Principle: The doctrine of basic structure in Constitutional jurisprudence means that the Constitution of India has certain basic features that cannot be taken away through amendments by the Parliament. The power of judicial review is a part of the basic structure and it helps the constitutional Courts to determine whether an amendment is against the basic structure or not.
Fact Situation: Parliament proposes an amendment limit the power of appeal against conviction for the offence of Sedition, to be exercised only by the Supreme Court of India.
Which of the following statements is the most appropriate in relation to the legal principle stated above?
Options
The proposed amendment is against the doctrine of the basic structure.
The proposed amendment is unconnected to the doctrine of the basic structure.
The proposed amendment can be reviewed and struck down by the Constitutional Courts.
The proposed amendment is beyond the power of the Parliament.
Solution
The proposed amendment can be reviewed and struck down by the Constitutional Courts.
Explanation:
Supreme Court has declared that the basic structure/ features of the constitution is resting on the basic foundation of the constitution. The basic foundation of the constitution is the dignity and the freedom of its citizens which is of supreme importance and can not be destroyed by any legislation of the parliament. Article 136 of the constitution stipulates for special leave petition. Meaning, any person aggrieved of any violation may without any restriction (whether the case is pending in some court, decided or whatever) can approach the Supreme Court under SLP. In addition, if SC finds substance in the SLP then it can hear and dispose of the case.
Hence "The proposed amendment can be reviewed and struck down by the Constitutional Courts." is most appropriate and the proposed amendment can be reviewed and struck down by the constitutional courts.
