The procedure for amending the Indian Constitution is outlined in Article 368. The Constitution can be amended to meet the changing needs and aspirations of the society. Here are the key provisions related to the amendment process:
Amendment Procedure:
1. Initiation:
o An amendment to the Constitution can be initiated only by the introduction of a bill in either House of Parliament (Lok Sabha or Rajya Sabha).
2. Special Majority:
o The amendment bill must be passed by each House by a special majority. A special majority requires a majority of the total membership of the House and a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting.
3. Ratification by States:
o Some amendments require ratification by a majority of states. If an amendment affects the federal structure (Article 1 and the First Schedule), representation of states in Parliament, or the powers of the President under Article 3, it requires ratification by at least half of the states.
4. President's Assent:
o After being passed by Parliament, the amendment bill is presented to the President for assent. The President can either give their assent or withhold it. However, the President's assent is usually a formality.
