Which Constitutional Amendment is popularly known as the "Mini-Constitution" because it brought about wide-ranging and transformative changes to the Indian Constitution?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act.
The 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1976 is widely known as the “Mini-Constitution” because it introduced the most extensive and transformative changes to the Indian Constitution. Enacted during the Emergency, it amended the Preamble, added the words Socialist, Secular, and Integrity, and strengthened Directive Principles while curtailing certain Fundamental Rights. It also enhanced the powers of the central government and attempted to reduce the judiciary’s authority by limiting judicial review.
Other options explained:
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44th Amendment (1978): Reversed many provisions of the 42nd Amendment and restored democratic balance.
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52nd Amendment (1985): Introduced the Anti-Defection Law.
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73rd Amendment (1992): Granted constitutional status to Panchayati Raj Institutions.