The correct option is 2 and 3 only.
Explanation
The 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985, is widely known as the Anti-Defection Law. It was introduced to ensure stability in the parliamentary system by curbing the practice of legislators switching political parties for office or other considerations.
Statement-wise Analysis:
- Statement 1 is Incorrect: The voting age was lowered from 21 years to 18 years by the 61st Constitutional Amendment Act, 1988 (effective from 1989), not the 52nd Amendment.
- Statement 2 is Correct: The 52nd Amendment Act specifically dealt with anti-defection measures. It added the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution, which lays down the process and grounds for the disqualification of members of Parliament and State Legislatures on the grounds of defection.
- Statement 3 is Correct: This amendment was enacted against the backdrop of the "Aaya Ram, Gaya Ram" political culture, characterized by frequent floor-crossing and political instability. Despite this turbulence, the legislation reflected a broad political consensus and was passed unanimously by the Parliament to strengthen the fabric of Indian democracy.
Key Takeaway: The 52nd Amendment Act (1985) introduced the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution, institutionalizing the Anti-Defection Law to penalize legislators for defecting from their original political parties.