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Polity & Governance2013
Consider the following statements:
  1. An amendment to the Constitution of India can be
  2. If such an amendment seeks to make changes in the
federal character of the Constitution, the amendment also requires to be ratified by the legislature of all the States of India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Explanation

The correct option is "Neither 1 nor 2" because both statements are inaccurate regarding the amendment process of the Indian Constitution. Firstly, an amendment can be initiated by introducing a bill in either the Lok Sabha or the Rajya Sabha, not exclusively in the Lok Sabha. Secondly, regarding the federal character, while certain amendments do require ratification by at least half of the state legislatures, it is not mandatory for all states to ratify amendments affecting the federal structure. This understanding is crucial in UPSC Prelims as it emphasizes the specific procedures outlined in Article 368 of the Constitution, which details the processes and conditions for constitutional amendments.

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