Polity
Important Constitutional Amendments & Writs
Master important Indian Constitutional Amendments (Article 368) and the Five Writs (Articles 32 and 226) crucial for UPSC, SSC, and State PCS exams.
6 August 2026·
3 min read
Definition
Constitutional Amendments refer to the formal process of altering or modifying the provisions of the Indian Constitution under Article 368. Writs are extraordinary constitutional remedies issued by the Supreme Court (Article 32) and High Courts (Article 226) to protect the Fundamental Rights of citizens against violation.
Key Points
- Article 368: Outlines the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution and the specific procedures required.
- Types of Majorities: Amendments require a simple majority, special majority, or special majority with ratification by half of the state legislatures.
- Basic Structure Doctrine: Established in the Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973), holding that Parliament cannot alter the basic framework of the Constitution.
- Five Types of Writs: Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, and Quo-Warranto.
- Article 32: Described by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as the 'heart and soul' of the Indian Constitution.
Why Important for Exams
- Frequently asked questions in UPSC, SSC CGL, and State PCS regarding landmark amendment acts (e.g., 42nd, 44th, 86th, 103rd).
- Direct matching questions on the nature and Latin meanings of the five writs in banking and defence exams.
- Distinction between ordinary legislative bills and constitutional amendment bills.
- Understanding judicial review powers vis-a-vis parliamentary supremacy.
Important Facts / Landmark Case / Articles / Years
- 42nd Amendment Act (1976): Known as the 'Mini-Constitution'; added Socialist, Secular, and Integrity to the Preamble, and added Fundamental Duties (Article 51A).
- 44th Amendment Act (1978): Removed the Right to Property from Fundamental Rights and made it a legal right under Article 300A.
- 86th Amendment Act (2002): Made elementary education a fundamental right under Article 21A.
- 103rd Amendment Act (2019): Introduced 10% EWS reservation.
- Habeas Corpus: Literally means 'to have the body of'; protects against illegal detention.
Remember
Mnemonics for Writs: He Made Progress Creating Questions (Habeas Corpus, Mandamus, Prohibition, Certiorari, Quo-Warranto).
Related Topics
- Basic Structure Doctrine
- Fundamental Rights
- Judicial Review
- Parliamentary Procedure
- Emergency Provisions
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#Indian Polity
#Article 368
#Writs
#Supreme Court
#Fundamental Rights
#Basic Structure
#UPSC Polity