SHORT ANSWER:
The basic structure doctrine limits Parliament's power to amend the Constitution by ensuring that certain fundamental features cannot be altered.
DETAILS:
- Established by the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973).
- It protects essential elements like the rule of law, separation of powers, and federalism.
- Parliament can amend the Constitution but cannot change its basic structure.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- If Parliament attempts to amend the basic structure, such amendments can be struck down by the judiciary.
SOURCE:
- Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
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