Authentic Classroom Explanation by IAS Monk

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📍 The Question

As per Article 368 of the Constitution of India, the Parliament may amend any provision of the Constitution by way of:

1. Addition
2. Variation
3. Repeal

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

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✅ Correct Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

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🎯 Theme of the Question

Indian Polity | Constitutional Amendment | Parliament’s Constituent Power | Article 368

This question directly tests textual understanding of Article 368, a favourite UPSC zone for exact-wording traps.

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🧠 Classroom Explanation

Article 368(1) of the Constitution clearly lays down the scope of Parliament’s amending power.
It states:

“Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution, Parliament may in exercise of its constituent power amend by way of addition, variation or repeal any provision of this Constitution in accordance with the procedure laid down in this article.”

From this constitutional wording, three things are crystal clear:

• 🔹 Addition → Parliament can insert new provisions
• 🔹 Variation → Parliament can modify or alter existing provisions
• 🔹 Repeal → Parliament can delete existing provisions

All three modes are explicitly recognised by the Constitution itself.

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❌ Why partial options are incorrect

• Any option excluding addition, variation, or repeal contradicts the express language of Article 368(1).
• UPSC often frames such questions to test whether aspirants remember constitutional phrasing, not interpretation.

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📌 Important Constitutional Caveat (Prelims Insight)

Although Article 368 allows amendment by addition, variation, or repeal:

• This power is not unlimited
• It is subject to the Basic Structure Doctrine
  (Kesavananda Bharati case, 1973)

👉 But: Since the question asks “as per Article 368”, Basic Structure limitations are outside the scope here.

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🧩 Prelims Memory Hook

“368 = Add, Alter, Abolish.”

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🧭 IAS Monk Whisper

A written Constitution grants power with words — and guards itself with principles.