Class 11 Political Science - ODISHA
Constitution as a Living Document
The chapter 'Constitution as a Living Document' explores how the Indian Constitution is not a static text, but a dynamic document that adapts to the changing needs of society. It discusses the flexibility of the Constitution through the amendment process under Article 368, balancing continuity with change. Students learn about different types of amendments, why our Constitution makers made it amendable yet difficult to change drastically, and landmark judicial interpretations that have shaped Indian democracy. For Odisha BSE board exams, this chapter is crucial as it tests conceptual understanding of constitutional flexibility, the basic structure doctrine, and the role of the judiciary.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
Living Document
A Constitution that responds to changing times and societal needs, acting like an open, growing framework rather than a rigid set of rules.
Article 368
The specific article in the Indian Constitution that outlines the procedure and powers of the Parliament to amend the Constitution.
Basic Structure Doctrine
A judicial principle established in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973) stating that Parliament cannot amend certain fundamental features of the Constitution.
Types of Amendments
Amendments can be made by simple majority, special majority, or special majority combined with ratification by half of the state legislatures.
Judicial Review
The power of the courts to examine constitutional amendments and executive actions to ensure they do not violate the basic structure.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
This chapter typically carries around 6-8 marks in the Odisha (BSE) Class 11 Political Science examinations. Common question types include short answer questions on Article 368 and the Basic Structure Doctrine, very short answers on types of majorities, and long-answer descriptive questions explaining why the Indian Constitution is called a living document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Indian Constitution called a living document?
It is called a living document because it can be amended and interpreted over time to adapt to new situations and societal changes, just like a living organism.
What is the Basic Structure Doctrine and who created it?
It is a judicial rule formulated by the Supreme Court in the 1973 Kesavananda Bharati case, which prevents Parliament from altering the core foundational features of the Constitution.
Can all parts of the Constitution be amended by Parliament?
No, while Parliament has vast powers to amend the Constitution under Article 368, it cannot touch or destroy the 'basic structure' of the Constitution.
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