Why this matters now
Landmark cases are among the most-tested polity items — knowing the case name, the issue and the principle it laid down is essential for both prelims and GS-2 answers.
Basic structure & amendments
Kesavananda Bharati (1973) propounded the basic structure doctrine — Parliament can amend the Constitution but not its basic structure. Minerva Mills (1980) reinforced it and balanced FRs with DPSPs. Golaknath (1967) had earlier held FRs unamendable (later overruled).
Expanding rights
Maneka Gandhi (1978) widened Article 21 (due process, “procedure must be fair, just and reasonable”). Vishaka (1997) laid down guidelines against sexual harassment at work. K.S. Puttaswamy (2017) declared privacy a fundamental right. Navtej Johar (2018) decriminalised consensual same-sex relations (reading down Sec 377).
Democracy and federalism
S.R. Bommai (1994) curbed the misuse of Article 356 (President’s Rule) and affirmed federalism and secularism as basic structure. Indra Sawhney (1992) upheld OBC reservation with the 50% ceiling and the creamy-layer concept. Shankari Prasad/Sajjan Singh and Berubari are earlier markers in this evolution.
UPSC angle
Match case→principle: Kesavananda (basic structure), Golaknath/Minerva (amendments), Maneka (Art 21 due process), Bommai (Art 356/federalism), Indra Sawhney (reservation 50%), Vishaka, Puttaswamy (privacy), Navtej (377).
Frequently asked questions
What did the Kesavananda Bharati case establish?
The basic structure doctrine — Parliament can amend the Constitution but cannot alter its basic structure.
What was the significance of Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India?
It widened Article 21, requiring that any procedure depriving life or liberty be fair, just and reasonable (due process).
What did the Puttaswamy judgment hold?
That the right to privacy is a fundamental right protected under Article 21.
What did S.R. Bommai rule on President’s Rule?
It limited the misuse of Article 356, made its imposition subject to judicial review, and affirmed federalism and secularism as basic structure.