50th Anniversary of the 1975 National Emergency
Why focus: 50th Anniversary — ties to NCERT Class 11 Indian Constitution. Sets up classic trap options on 44th Amendment changes to Article 352 (GS2 Polity)
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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BEFORE: National Emergency could be declared on the vague grounds of 'internal disturbance'. NOW: It can only be declared on the specific grounds of 'armed rebellion' following the 44th Amendment.
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BEFORE: The President could proclaim an Emergency based on the Prime Minister's sole advice. NOW: The President requires a written recommendation from the Union Cabinet.
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BEFORE: Fundamental Rights under Articles 20 and 21 could be suspended during an Emergency. NOW: Articles 20 (protection in respect of conviction for offences) and 21 (right to life and personal liberty) cannot be suspended during any Emergency.
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BEFORE: A proclamation of Emergency could be approved by a simple majority in Parliament. NOW: It must be approved by a special majority of both Houses within one month.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements regarding the declaration of National Emergency under Article 352 is/are correct? 1. The 44th Constitutional Amendment Act replaced the term 'internal disturbance' with 'armed rebellion'. 2. The President can proclaim a National Emergency solely on the oral advice of the Prime Minister.