Question

Compare how Indian Constitution is both rigid and flexible

Answer 1

The constitution is called rigid or flexible on the basis of procedure for its amendments. A rigid constitution is the one which cannot be amended easily. On the whole,a flexible constitution is the one which can be amended easily. The strength of a rigid constitution is that it is stable and is guarantee against hasty changes. A flexible constitution is considered progressive in nature and helpful in development of nation.The Constitution of India is a combination of rigid as well as flexible. It is not only a document, that is a framework for democratic governance but also an instrument that may require modifications. Accordingly, there are different ways for amendment such as :-

Amendment by simple majority

Amendment by special majority

Amendment by special majority and ratification

Answer 2

Indian Constitution is both rigid and flexible due to the following reasons:-

1. It is flexible so that the constitution can respond to the changes of the society and incorporate new legislation's from time to time easily.

2.The Indian constitution is the bulkiest and lengthiest constitution of the world.
 It is flexible because provisions may be amended or modified by ordinary legislative process.

3. Certain provisions can be amended by a two-third majority in Parliament and ratified by at least fifty percent of the states.

4. The remaining provisions can be amended by Parliament by two-third majority.

5. Certain provisions of the constitution can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament.

6. There are three kinds of flexibility:-
ordinary majority – amendments such as those relating to establishment of states or use of official language which only require a simple majority of Parliament. These amendments are considered outside the scope of Article 368 and hint at flexibility.

7. Thus, both rigidity and flexibility are characteristics of the Indian Constitution. 

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