Question

Which of the following is a basic feature of the Indian Constitution as per the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973)?

• A. Judicial Review
• B. Secularism
• C. Federalism
• D. Preamble

Hint:

Kesavananda Bharati: Basic Structure Doctrine includes Judicial Review. Think: ``Basic Structure = Core constitutional safeguards."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

In the landmark *Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala* (1973) case, the Supreme Court established the Basic Structure Doctrine, which identifies certain fundamental features of the Indian Constitution that Parliament cannot amend under Article 368. Judicial Review, the judiciary’s power to review and invalidate laws or executive actions that violate the Constitution, was explicitly recognized as a core component of the basic structure. While secularism and federalism are also part of the basic structure, Judicial Review is a primary focus of the judgment. The Preamble, though a guiding principle, is not considered a basic feature in this context. The doctrine safeguards the Constitution’s core principles.