Article 368 of the Indian Constitution is one of the most significant articles that deals with the amendment procedure of the Constitution. It is a crucial aspect of the Constitution, as it ensures that the document remains up to date and relevant.
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What is Article 368?
Article 368 is a provision in the Indian Constitution that outlines the procedure for amending the Constitution. It provides the power to the Parliament to amend any part of the Constitution according to the procedure mentioned in the article.
Procedure for Amendment
The amendment procedure mentioned in the Article consists of two stages. In the first stage, the Parliament has to pass an amendment bill by a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting. In the second stage, the President has to give his or her assent to the bill.
Scope of Amendment
Article 368 allows the Parliament to amend any part of the Constitution, including the fundamental rights and the directive principles of state policy. However, there are a few restrictions on this power. The Parliament cannot amend the basic structure of the Constitution, which includes the principles of democracy, secularism, federalism, and the rule of law.
Impact of Article 368
It has played a significant role in the development of the Indian Constitution. It has allowed the Constitution to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the country. Over the years, several amendments have been made to the Constitution through the procedure outlined in the Article.
Controversies Surrounding Article 368
There have been several controversies surrounding it. One of the most significant controversies is regarding the power of the Parliament to amend the Constitution. Some argue that this power can be misused by the ruling party to make changes that benefit them, rather than the country as a whole.
Conclusion
Article 368 is an essential provision in the Indian Constitution that provides the framework for amending the Constitution. It has played a crucial role in the development of the Constitution and has allowed it to evolve over the years. However, it is also important to ensure that the power provided is not misused and that any amendments made are in the best interests of the country.
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