SHORT ANSWER:
The basic structure doctrine protects fundamental rights by ensuring that certain essential features of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed by amendments.
DETAILS:
- Established by the Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973).
- It maintains the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law.
- Ensures that fundamental rights remain inviolable and cannot be infringed upon by legislative changes.
PUNISHMENT / IMPLICATIONS (if applicable):
- Any amendment violating the basic structure can be struck down by the Supreme Court.
SOURCE:
- Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, 1973 (Supreme Court Judgment)
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