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SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 76

SSC CHSL - 17 Nov 2025 - Shift 1 • General Awareness • Q76

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The 91st Amendment Act, 2003 of the Indian Constitution is related with which of the following?

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Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 1: The maximum limit on the size of the Council of Ministers.
Explanation:

  • The 91st Amendment Act of the Indian Constitution, 2003, was primarily enacted to limit the size of the Council of Ministers and to further strengthen the anti-defection law.
  • Limit on the Council of Ministers: Under this amendment, it was stipulated that the total number of ministers in the Union Council of Ministers—including the Prime Minister—shall not exceed 15% of the total membership of the Lok Sabha.
  • Rules for States: Similarly, in the states, the total number of ministers—including the Chief Minister—shall not exceed 15% of the total membership of that state's Legislative Assembly. However, for smaller states, a minimum number of 12 ministers has been prescribed.
  • Check on Defection: This amendment modified the 10th Schedule (the Anti-Defection Law). Previously, if one-third of a party's members defected, it was recognized as a 'split'; however, this threshold has now been raised to two-thirds.
  • Disqualification from Office: If a member is disqualified on the grounds of defection, they shall also be disqualified from holding the office of a minister.

Analysis of Other Options:

  • Option 2 (No increase in seats until 2026): This provision was established by the 84th Amendment Act, 2001.
  • Option 3 (Bifurcation of the SC and ST Commission): This was effected by the 89th Amendment Act, 2003, which led to the creation of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (Article 338) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (Article 338A).
  • Option 4 (Goa Legislative Assembly seats): Special provisions regarding Goa are associated with the 56th Amendment Act, 1987.

Important Questions for Upcoming Examinations:
Question: Which constitutional amendment limited the number of ministers to 15%?
Answer: The 91st Amendment Act, 2003.
Question: What is the minimum number of ministers required in a State Council of Ministers, including the Chief Minister?
Answer: 12. Question: In which Schedule of the Constitution is the Anti-Defection Law included?
Answer: The 10th Schedule.