GS2 · 10 marks · 150 words

'Unique blend of flexibility and rigidity distinguish Indian constitution from that of the US constitution.' Discuss.

Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025

Comparative ConstitutionsConstitution and Basic Structure

Syllabus: Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries.

How toppers approached it

From all 5 answers · about 180 words · 20% drew a diagram.

Opening

  • No separate opening80%
  • A constitutional or legal provision20%

Body

  • Points and prose60%
  • Points40%

Close

  • A summary80%
  • No separate close20%

The toppers’ answers

Shakti DubeyAIR 1 · CSE 2024 · 138 wordsTheir whole copy

Opening

Granville Austin has called Indian model of Federalism as an example of Holding together Federation, which is Quasi federal in nature because of unique blend of Federal & Unitary provision.

Body · points and prose

Flexibility & Rigidity of Indian constitution

One such provision is the procedure related to Amendment of Indian constitution. It's a unique blend of:

Diagram
Flexibility & Rigidity of Indian constitution - Flexibility - The provisions can be amended easily by simple majority of the parliament - eg:- provisions that are related to general day to day functioning of polity - Rigidity - The amendment requires special majority - and in some cases also ratification of states - eg:- Amendment of federal provision impacting the interest of states

In contrast to this USA has a very rigid procedure for amendment:- (1) It is an example of coming together federation (2) state have their own rights which cannot be taken away (3) In almost two centuries of existence - American constitution has only been amended 25 times.

Close

While on the other hand India constitution has underwent 108 Amendments in it's 70 years of existence - some raise question on credibility while other appreciates that Indian constitution is a living document adapting to changes.

More on Comparative Constitutions

The Indian scheme set against other countries'.

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