The Supreme Court of India propounded the doctrine of "Basic Structure of the Constitution" in which of the following cases?

Correct option is D

Ans. (d)
The Keshavananda Bharti case (1973) introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine, limiting the Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution in a way that would alter its fundamental principles. The Supreme Court held that while Parliament has wide powers under Article 368, it cannot change the Constitution's basic structure, such as secularism, democracy, and rule of law.
Information Booster
1. Shankari Prasad case (1951): Upheld Parliament’s power to amend fundamental rights.
2. Sajjan Singh case (1965): Reiterated Shankari Prasad’s ruling.
3. Golaknath case (1967): Held that Parliament could not amend fundamental rights, reversing earlier rulings.
4. Keshavananda Bharti case (1973): Defined the Basic Structure Doctrine, creating a balance between amendment power and constitutional integrity.
5. Minerva Mills case (1980): Strengthened the doctrine by further protecting the Constitution's basic structure.
6. The doctrine ensures that key principles, such as judicial review, federalism, and secularism, remain inviolable.
7. It is a cornerstone of Indian constitutional law, ensuring democratic governance.
Additional Knowledge
· Shankari Prasad case (1951): First case addressing constitutional amendments.
· Golaknath case (1967): Preceded the Basic Structure Doctrine but limited amendment power.
· Keshavananda Bharti case (1973): Landmark judgment shaping constitutional jurisprudence.
· Minerva Mills case (1980): Expanded on the Basic Structure Doctrine, emphasizing harmony between fundamental rights and directive principles.