The correct option is 2 only.
Explanation
Article 368 of the Indian Constitution lays down the procedure for amending the Constitution. While some provisions can be amended by a simple majority, the core federal provisions are protected by a rigid amendment process to ensure that the federal balance of power is not altered unilaterally by the Centre. These provisions require a "Special Majority" in Parliament followed by ratification by State Legislatures.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Incorrect. The Parliament does not have the unilateral power to change the fundamental federal power-sharing arrangements. The Constitution ensures that provisions affecting the federal structure (such as the distribution of legislative powers in the Seventh Schedule) cannot be amended by Parliament alone. Such amendments require the participation of the States.
- Statement 2 is Correct. According to the proviso to Article 368(2), any amendment that seeks to change federal provisions requires:
- A Special Majority in both Houses of Parliament (majority of total membership and two-thirds of members present and voting).
- Ratification by the legislatures of not less than one-half of the States by a simple majority.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect. The Rajya Sabha is fully involved in the process of constitutional amendment. A Constitution Amendment Bill can be introduced in either House of Parliament. It must be passed by each House separately with a special majority. There is no provision for a joint sitting in case of disagreement on a constitutional amendment; therefore, the Rajya Sabha has equal powers with the Lok Sabha in this regard.
Key Takeaway: The federal features of the Indian Constitution are entrenched and protected under Article 368. They can only be amended through a double-check mechanism involving both a Special Majority in Parliament and ratification by at least 50% of the State Legislatures.