Tuesday, September 22, 2015

INTERPRETATION OF THE CONSTITUTION

INTERPRETATION OF THE CONSTITUTION :

The constitution is an organic instrument. It is the fundamental law. The general rule

adopted for construing a written constitution is the same as for construing any other statute. The

constitution should be interpreted so as to give effect to all its parts.

There are basically three types of interpretation of the constitution.

1. Historical interpretation

Ambiguities and uncertainties while interpreting the constitutional provisions can be

clarified by referring to earlier interpretative decisions.

2. Contemporary interpretation

The constitution must be interpreted in the light of the present scenario. The situation

and circumstances prevalent today must be considered.

3. Harmonious Construction

The Supreme Court held in Re Kerala Education Bill that in deciding the fundamental

rights, the court must consider the directive principles and adopt the principle of harmonious

construction so two possibilities are given effect as much as possible by striking a balance.

In Bhatia International v Bulk Trading SA, it was held that if more than one interpretation

is possible for a stature, then the court has to choose the interpretation which depicts the

intention of the legislature.

(i) Interpretation of the preamble of the Constitution :

The preamble cannot override the provisions of the constitution. In Re Berubari, the

Supreme Court held that the Preamble was not a part of the constitution and therefore it could

not be regarded as a source of any substantive power. In Keshvananda Bharthi’s case, the

Supreme Court rejected the above view and held the preamble to be a part of the constitution.

The constitution must be read in the light of the preamble. The preamble could be used for the

amendment power of the parliament under Art. 368 but basic elements cannot be amended.

(ii) General rules of interpretation of the constitution

1. It the words are clear and unambiguous, they must be given full effect.

2. The constitution must be read as a whole.

3. Principles of Harmonious construction must be applied.

4. The constitution must be interpreted in a broad and liberal sense.

5. The court has to infer the sprit of the constitution from the language.

6. Internal and External aids may be used while interpreting.

7. The Constitution prevails over other statutes.