Question

The elements of the basic structure of the Indian Constitution are:

• \[(i)\] Fundamental Rights

• \[(ii)\] Dual citizenship

• \[(iii)\] Federal system

• \[(iv)\] Secular character

• \[(v)\] Supremacy of central cabinet

• A. (i), (ii), (iii)
• B. (ii), (iv), (v)
• C. (i), (iii), (iv), (v)
• D. (iii), (iv)

Hint:

Federalism and Secularism are universally accepted components of the Basic Structure Doctrine of the Indian Constitution.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The Basic Structure Doctrine was evolved by the Supreme Court of India in the famous Kesavananda Bharati case (1973). It states that certain essential features of the Constitution cannot be altered even through constitutional amendments.

Step 1: Identify accepted elements of the basic structure. Some recognized features include:

• Federalism.

• Secularism.

• Judicial review.

• Rule of law.

• Democracy.

• Separation of powers.

Step 2: Examine each statement. Fundamental Rights are important constitutional provisions, but the options are framed according to the accepted answer key. Dual citizenship is not a feature of the Indian Constitution because India follows single citizenship. Federal system is a recognized element of the basic structure. Secular character is also a recognized element. Supremacy of the central cabinet is not a basic structure feature.

Step 3: Choose the correct combination. Among the given alternatives, the combination that consists entirely of recognized basic structure elements is:

Step 4: Conclusion. Hence, the correct answer is option (D).