Points to Remember:
- The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act of India.
- Its subject matter.
- Options related to citizenship, anti-defection, social welfare, and secularism.
Introduction:
The 91st Constitutional Amendment Act, enacted in 2003, is a significant piece of legislation in India. Understanding its core subject matter requires examining its provisions and comparing them to the options provided. The amendment deals with a specific aspect of governance and citizen rights within the Indian constitutional framework. It did not directly address citizenship, secularism, or broad social welfare programs in a comprehensive manner.
Body:
The Focus of the 91st Amendment:
The 91st Amendment primarily deals with (B) Anti-Defection. Its main purpose was to strengthen the provisions related to the prevention of defections by elected members of Parliament and State Legislatures. The amendment aimed to curb the practice of legislators switching parties for personal gain or political expediency, thereby enhancing the stability of governments and ensuring the mandate of the electorate is respected.
Why Other Options are Incorrect:
(A) Citizenship: The 91st Amendment did not address issues related to citizenship, which are dealt with under different articles of the Constitution. Amendments related to citizenship have been enacted separately.
(C) Social Welfare: While the amendment indirectly contributes to political stability, which can have positive social consequences, it does not directly address social welfare programs or schemes. Social welfare is a broader subject covered by numerous other constitutional provisions and legislation.
(D) Secularism: The amendment does not directly relate to the principle of secularism enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Secularism is a fundamental feature of the Indian state, addressed through various articles and interpretations by the judiciary.
Conclusion:
In summary, the 91st Constitutional Amendment Act primarily focuses on strengthening the anti-defection law in India. It did not directly address citizenship, social welfare, or secularism. The amendment’s significance lies in its contribution to political stability by curbing opportunistic defections and upholding the integrity of the electoral process. Moving forward, periodic reviews of the anti-defection law are crucial to ensure its effectiveness and address any unintended consequences. A balanced approach is needed to maintain the delicate balance between political stability and the rights of individual legislators while upholding the democratic principles enshrined in the Constitution. This ensures a more robust and representative democracy, promoting holistic development and good governance.
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