Question

What is the process of amending the constitution

Answer 1

If Americans wish to change the Constitution, they must follow two basic steps. It sounds simple but is quite difficult to achieve. The two main steps are:

Proposal—the amendment idea is officially presented for debate

Ratification—the amendment idea is passed and becomes part of the Constitution

The amendment process is a great example of federalism. The state and federal governments must work together to change the Constitution.

Twenty-six out of 27 amendments were ratified through the same process. Two-thirds of both houses of Congress voted in favor of each proposal. Then, three-fourths of the state legislatures voted to ratify. This made each amendment part of the Constitution. Each state legislature makes its own voting schedule. Therefore, a proposed amendment could wait months or years for ratification.

In one case, Americans decided an amendment they had ratified was a mistake. The 18th Amendment prohibited alcohol. They repealed this amendment by ratifying a new one, the 21st. This was the only amendment that was ratified through votes by special state conventions.

Step-by-step explanation:

Answer 2

Amending the Constitution of India is laid down in Part XX (Article 368) of the Indian Constitution. As the Constitution of India is flexible as well as rigid, it is evident that not all parts of it can be amended. For example the Basic structure laid down by the Supreme Court in the case of Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerela, is beyond amendment.

The amendment can be initiated only via the introduction of a bill in either of the house of the Parliament. The bill must then be passed in each House by a majority of the total majority of that house and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members present and voting. It is then ratified and assented by the President.