NCERT Class 11 Political Science — Chapter 9: Constitution as a Living document

The correct option is Special majority in Parliament plus a national referendum.

Explanation

Article 368 of the Constitution of India lays down the specific procedures for amending the Constitution. While Article 368 explicitly details two methods involving a special majority, certain provisions of the Constitution can also be amended through a simple majority, similar to the ordinary legislative process.

Analysis of Options

• Special majority in Parliament plus a national referendum is the correct answer (Not a method): The Indian Constitution does not prescribe a national referendum for any constitutional amendment. While referendums are used in constitutions like those of Switzerland or Australia, the Indian constituent power resides solely with the Parliament and State Legislatures.
• Special majority in Parliament for most articles is a valid method: A Special Majority of Parliament (majority of total membership of each House and a majority of two-thirds of members present and voting) is the standard requirement for amending most provisions, including Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
• Special majority in Parliament plus ratification by half the State legislatures is a valid method: For provisions that impact the federal structure (e.g., the election of the President, the Supreme Court, or the Seventh Schedule), the Constitution requires a Special Majority in Parliament plus ratification by the legislatures of at least half of the states.
• Simple majority in Parliament for certain articles is a valid method: Certain provisions, such as the formation of new states, abolition of legislative councils, or changes to the Second Schedule, can be amended by a Simple Majority of Parliament. These changes are technically not considered amendments under Article 368.

Key Takeaway: The Indian Constitution provides three ways to amend its provisions: Simple Majority, Special Majority, and Special Majority with State Ratification. It does not utilize direct democracy tools like referendums for constitutional amendments.