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Question

Consider the following statements regarding the President’s role in the Constitutional Amendment process:

1. The President can withhold his assent to a Constitutional Amendment Bill.
2. The President can return a Constitutional Amendment Bill to Parliament for reconsideration.
3. The President is bound to give his assent to a Constitutional Amendment Bill duly passed by both Houses.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 2 and 3 only

Answer:

Option B: 3 only

Detailed Solution:

The correct answer is “3 only”.

Under Article 368, once a Constitutional Amendment Bill has been duly passed by both Houses of Parliament (and ratified by the state legislatures, if required), the President must give his assent. Unlike in the case of ordinary bills, the President has no power to withhold assent or return the bill for reconsideration. This provision emphasizes the limited role of the President in the constitutional amendment process, ensuring the supremacy of the Parliament in this matter.