Which constitutional amendment is known as the "Mini Constitution"?
- AOption (a)
52nd Amendment
- BOption (b)
44th Amendment
- COption (c)
42th Amendment
- DOption (d)
24th Amendment
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Correct answer
42th Amendment
Why this answer is correct
The correct answer is 42nd Amendment.
Key Points
- The 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 is popularly referred to as the "Mini Constitution" due to its vast and comprehensive changes to the Constitution of India.
- It was enacted during the Emergency period under the leadership of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
- This amendment brought significant changes to the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP).
- The words "Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity" were added to the Preamble, redefining India's identity as a nation.
- It also curtailed the powers of the judiciary, giving more authority to the Parliament.
Additional Information
- Preamble Amendments: The terms "Socialist," "Secular," and "Integrity" were introduced to strengthen India's commitment to democracy and pluralism.
- Fundamental Duties: The amendment introduced ten Fundamental Duties under Article 51A, emphasizing the moral obligations of citizens.
- Judiciary vs. Legislature: It attempted to reduce the independence of the judiciary by limiting its power to review constitutional amendments.
- Directive Principles: The amendment gave precedence to the Directive Principles of State Policy over Fundamental Rights, emphasizing socioeconomic justice.
- Emergency Powers: It extended the duration of the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies during a National Emergency from five to six years.