Basic structure doctrine sample question

Question

The basic structure doctrine is most closely associated with which Supreme Court case?

1. A. Golaknath case
2. B. Kesavananda Bharati case
3. C. Minerva Mills case
4. D. Maneka Gandhi case

Correct answer

Option B: Kesavananda Bharati case

The Kesavananda Bharati case is associated with the basic structure doctrine, which limits Parliament's power to amend the Constitution in a way that damages its basic framework.

Why the other options are wrong

• Golaknath is important for constitutional amendment history but is not the case most closely linked with the basic structure doctrine.
• Minerva Mills reinforced parts of the doctrine but did not originate the association.
• Maneka Gandhi is closely linked with Article 21 and due process expansion.

Solution method

1. Separate the name of the doctrine from later cases that applied or expanded it.
2. Recall the constitutional issue: the limit on Parliament's amending power.
3. Use the year and case association only after the principle is clear.

Concept boundary

Kesavananda Bharati is associated with articulation of the basic structure doctrine. Later cases are important because they applied or explained the doctrine, but that does not make them the originating association asked in this sample. In revision notes, store origin, later application and specific principle in separate rows.

Transfer practice

The basic structure doctrine primarily limits which constitutional power?

Practice tip

For landmark cases, remember the case name, constitutional issue and one-line principle.

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