Constitution of India
Scope
The Constitution section tests fundamental rights, directive principles, the structure of government, writs, emergency provisions and amendment. Questions are often based on Articles and leading cases rather than current politics.
Core rules
- Part III rights: equality (Article 14), freedoms (Article 19), life and personal liberty (Article 21), religion (Articles 25-28), constitutional remedies (Articles 32 and 226).
- Article 21 includes privacy (Puttaswamy), dignity, health and a clean environment; property is no longer a fundamental right but is protected under Article 300A.
- Article 32 is itself a fundamental right; Article 226 gives High Courts wider writ jurisdiction, including for non-fundamental rights.
- Directive principles (Part IV) are not enforceable but guide interpretation and policy.
- Article 368 amendment power is subject to the basic structure doctrine (Kesavananda Bharati).
- Article 200: Governor's options on a State Bill-assent, withhold, reserve for President, or return.
Worked example
A Kerala statute restricts a religious procession. The State claims public order. A writ petitioner invokes Article 25 and Article 226. The court asks whether the restriction is prescribed by law, necessary for public order and proportionate; the burden is on the State to justify the limitation.
Traps
Article 32 cannot be excluded by statute, but it is not a substitute for ordinary civil litigation in every property dispute. Do not confuse Article 226 with Article 32; the High Court's jurisdiction is broader but discretionary. A Governor's reservation under Article 200 is not the same as assent.