Concept notes: The 42nd Amendment to the Indian Constitution, also known as the "Constitution (Forty-Second Amendment) Act, 1976," was a significant piece of legislation that made substantial changes to the Indian Constitution. It was passed during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who was in power from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 to 1984.
Explanation: The 42nd Amendment to the Indian Constitution, also known as the "Constitution (Forty-Second Amendment) Act, 1976," was a landmark piece of legislation that made significant changes to the Indian Constitution. It was passed during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, who was in power from 1966 to 1977 and again from 1980 to 1984. The amendment was introduced in the backdrop of the Emergency period (1975-1977), a time when the government had imposed a state of emergency and suspended many civil liberties.
The 42nd Amendment included several important changes to the Constitution. It added the terms "Socialist" and "Secular" to the Preamble, reflecting the government's commitment to socialism and secularism. It also made changes to the Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy, and introduced new provisions for the prevention of corruption and the promotion of good governance. Additionally, the amendment extended the term of the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the Indian Parliament) from five to six years during a national emergency.
The amendment was a controversial piece of legislation, as it was seen by many as an attempt by the government to consolidate power and limit the judiciary's ability to check the executive. However, it also included provisions aimed at strengthening the democratic process and ensuring the rule of law.
Understanding the context and the specific changes made by the 42nd Amendment is crucial for comprehending the evolution of the Indian Constitution and the political landscape of the 1970s. It is important to note that while the amendment was passed during Indira Gandhi's tenure, subsequent amendments have made further changes to the Constitution, reflecting the ongoing process of constitutional evolution in India.
In summary, the 42nd Amendment was a significant piece of legislation that was passed during the tenure of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, and it had a lasting impact on the Indian Constitution and political system.