“The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism.” Explain. How has this dynamism been manifested in the interpretation of the Constitution by the Supreme Court?

The Indian Constitution is a document that can change with the times. It is not something that is set in stone and never changes. The Indian Constitution is able to adapt to what’s happening in society and politics and the economy. This is because the Indian Constitution can be interpreted in ways, by judges. The judges help the Indian Constitution stay relevant and still keep the principles of the Indian Constitution intact.

How the Constitution is a Living Instrument

• The Constitution has some ideas that are not set in stone so people can understand them in different ways. The Constitution is like that because it has principles rather, than rigid rules, which means people can interpret the Constitution in a flexible way. This is what makes the Constitution special it is the Constitution that allows for interpretation.
• The thing about rules like Article 21 is that they use language that’s not very specific. This means that Article 21 can be used to add rights, for people as time goes on. Article 21 is an example of this because it does not have a lot of details so it can be interpreted in different ways. This is how Article 21 helps to expand the rights of people over time.
• The amendment process under Article 368 is really about finding a balance between keeping things the same and making changes. This process of amendment under Article 368 is what helps to balance continuity with the need, for change.

Role of the Supreme Court in Manifesting Dynamism

Expansive interpretation of Fundamental Rights:

Article 21 is really important because it now includes the right to be able to make a living have some privacy live in an environment and be treated with dignity. The Article 21 is very crucial as it talks about the right to livelihood, which’s essential for everyone and also the right to privacy which means people should be able to keep their personal life private. Furthermore Article 21 also includes the right to an environment, which is necessary for our health and well being and the right, to dignity which means people should be treated with respect.

Doctrine of Basic Structure:

• Ensures constitutional identity while allowing amendments, reflecting dynamic stability.

Judicial review and PILs:

The courts can now deal with problems related to governance. Help people who are marginalised. This means the courts can look into things when they are not being run properly and make sure that marginalised groups are protected. The courts are able to address these governance failures and help marginalised groups in a way.

Evolving federalism:

The way we think about the relationship between the Centre and the States has changed over time. Now we see the Centre and the States working together which is called federalism. At the time the Centre and the States also compete with each other and this is known as competitive federalism. The relationship between the Centre and the States is really, about the Centre and the States.

Significance for Democratic Governance

• Ensures constitutional relevance across generations.
• Balances individual liberty with collective interests.
• Acts as a moral compass during political or executive excesses.

The Supreme Court’s interpretative role has ensured that the Constitution remains dynamic yet principled. This balance between flexibility and restraint has allowed Indian democracy to survive, adapt, and deepen over time.

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About the Author: Jyoti Verma