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Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies

Published in Association with Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies

Current Volume: 59 (2025 )

ISSN: 0022-0043

Periodicity: Quarterly

Month(s) of Publication: March, June, September & December

Subject: Political Science

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The ‘Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies’ is a peer reviewed and refereed journal; contributions received for consideration for publication are reviewed by domain experts nominated on the Board of Reviewers.

The journal is intended to serve as an international forum to discuss the problems, processes and prospects of parliamentary democracy and legislative institutions in India and abroad and become a vehicle of advanced and specialized studies in comparative constitutional law and parliamentary procedures. The journal is not committed to any particular political ideology or party. It provides an objective and independent forum for expression of diverse viewpoints and perspectives.

Contributions for the journal are invited from persons belonging to different walks of life: legislators, jurists, political scientists, academicians and lawyers. Contributions should be sent through e-mail at 'journals-icps@sansad.nic.in'. A uniform pattern of footnotes as per Chicago style of referencing should be followed. Contributions simultaneously sent for publication elsewhere will not be entertained. Contributors must send the plagiarism check (similarity index) report generated by Turnitin software along with the manuscript. Manuscripts having similarity index as per the extant regulations will be accepted.
 

EBSCO

Editor -in -chief
Shri Gaurav Goyal

Managing Editor
Dr. Seema Kaul Singh

Members
Professor Sushma Yadav

Member, UGC and Pro Vice Chancellor,
Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh, Haryana


Professor Shri Prakash Singh

Professor of Political Science and Director, South Campus,
University of Delhi, Delhi


Professor Amarpal Singh

Vice-Chancellor,
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohiya
National Law University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh


Volume 59 Issue 3-4, SPECIAL ISSUE , (Jul- to Dec-2025)

The Constitution of India: A Bridge Between Memory and Hope

By: Justice (Retd.) Ranjan Gogoi , Roddam Prashanth Reddy

Page No : 127-136

Abstract
Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies 2025, Vol. 59 (3-4) 127-136 ISSN: 0022-0043 ©2025 ICPS This article conceptualises the Constitution of India as a bridge between collective memory and aspirational hope, arguing that its enduring significance lies in this dual function. It situates the Constitution within the historical context of colonialism, Partition, and entrenched social hierarchies, demonstrating how its provisions- particularly the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles- encode and acknowledge past injustices such as caste discrimination, gender inequality, and economic exploitation. In doing so, the Constitution performs a memorial role, refusing to erase historical wrongs. Simultaneously, the article highlights the Constitution’s aspirational dimension, emphasising its role in envisioning a just social order grounded in dignity, equality, and freedom. Judicial interpretation, especially the expansion of Article 21, is analysed to show how constitutional meaning evolves over time, adapting to new challenges. The framework of affirmative action further illustrates the Constitution’s commitment to substantive equality while anticipating a more just future. The article also examines inherent constitutional tensions- between equality and remediation, secularism and state engagement with religion, and federalism and centralisation- arguing that these tensions sustain democratic dynamism. Ultimately, the Constitution is presented as a living, dialogic framework that continues to guide India’s evolving democratic project.

Authors
Justice (Retd.) Ranjan Gogoi
: Former Chief Justice of India and Former MP (Rajya Sabha).
Roddam Prashanth Reddy : Advocate, Supreme Court of India.
 

Price: 101

The New Criminal Laws

By: Justice (Retd.) Madan B. Lokur

Page No : 137-156

Abstract
This article critically examines India’s recent overhaul of its criminal justice framework through the enactment of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, which replace colonial-era laws governing substantive offences, criminal procedure, and evidence. The study situates these reforms within the broader objective of decolonisation, modernisation, and alignment with constitutional values of justice, equity, and efficiency. It highlights key innovations, including the recognition of electronic evidence, digitisation of procedures, time-bound investigations and trials, victim-centric measures, and the introduction of reformative punishments such as community service. At the same time, the article undertakes a comparative analysis with prior statutes to reveal areas of continuity alongside significant structural and conceptual shifts. It also critically engages with emerging concerns, including expanded police powers, potential vagueness in provisions relating to state security, infrastructural limitations, and ambiguities in transitional application. The article argues that while these reforms mark a watershed moment in Indian criminal jurisprudence, their success depends on effective implementation, institutional capacity-building, and maintaining a balance between state authority and civil liberties.

Author
Justice (Retd.) Madan B. Lokur
: Former Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
 

Price: 101

Technology and Freedom of Speech: A Constitutional Conundrum

By: Justice (Retd.) R. S. Chauhan

Page No : 157-165

Abstract
This article examines the constitutional tensions arising from the rapid expansion of technology, particularly social media, and its impact on freedom of speech. It argues that while digital platforms have democratized expression and expanded access to information, they have simultaneously enabled the proliferation of hate speech, misinformation, and threats to social harmony. The author analyses the dual nature of technology as both empowering and disruptive, highlighting its effects on institutions, including the judiciary, media, and civil society. A comparative study of the American and Indian constitutional approaches reveals a divergence: the former prioritizes near absolute free speech subject to the “clear and present danger” test, while the latter permits reasonable restrictions under constitutional provisions to preserve public order and morality. The article further critiques the inadequacy of existing legal frameworks and their weak enforcement in curbing hate speech, especially in the digital sphere. It concludes by proposing a multi pronged regulatory approach involving legal reform, greater accountability of intermediaries, digital literacy, algorithmic transparency, and the use of artificial intelligence for content moderation, while emphasising the need to balance free expression with the protection of democratic values and social cohesion.

Author
Justice (Retd.) R. S. Chauhan
: Former Acting Chief Justice, High Court for the State of Telangana; Former Chief Justice, High Court of Uttarakhand
 

Price: 101

Dowry Prohibition Act 1961: An Analysis

By: Justice (Retd.) Mukta Gupta

Page No : 166-177

Abstract
This article critically examines the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 within the broader socio-legal context of dowry practices in India. It traces the historical evolution of dowry from ‘stridhan’, an instrument of women’s financial security, to a coercive and institutionalised system rooted in patriarchy and property exclusion. The study analyses the statutory framework of the Act alongside key judicial interpretations, highlighting the expansive definition of dowry, the penal provisions governing demand and exchange, and the evidentiary presumptions in dowry death cases under allied laws. It further explores the interplay between legal provisions such as Sections 304B and 498A IPC and the challenges posed by inconsistent application and alleged misuse. Despite a robust legislative and judicial framework, the persistence of dowry-related violence underscores systemic issues including weak enforcement, social stigma, underreporting, and delays in adjudication. The article argues that dowry is not merely a legal problem but a deeply entrenched socio-cultural phenomenon. It concludes by advocating a multi-dimensional approach combining legal reform, institutional strengthening, women’s economic empowerment, and societal attitudinal change to effectively combat dowry and uphold gender justice.

Author
Justice (Retd.) Mukta Gupta
: Former Judge, Delhi High Court
 

Price: 101

Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam: A Game Changer

By: Justice (Retd.) Poonam A. Bamba

Page No : 178-182

Abstract
This article analyses the transformative potential of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023 as a landmark step toward gender-inclusive governance in India. It situates the legislation within the historical trajectory of women’s political under-representation and the prolonged legislative struggle to secure reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies. Enacted through the 106th Constitutional Amendment, the Act mandates one-third reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State legislatures, thereby institutionalising affirmative action and advancing constitutional guarantees of equality and democratic participation. The article highlights the potential of increased female representation to enrich policymaking through diverse perspectives, particularly in areas of social welfare and inclusive development. At the same time, it critically examines structural and procedural challenges, including the linkage of implementation to delimitation and census processes, which may delay its operationalisation. While acknowledging these constraints, the study underscores the Act’s normative significance in transforming women’s political empowerment from a policy aspiration into a constitutional mandate. It concludes that the legislation represents a pivotal, though evolving, milestone in strengthening participatory democracy and gender justice in India.

Author
Justice (Retd.) Poonam A. Bamba
: Former Judge, High Court of Delhi.
 

Price: 101

From Vision to Legacy: Six Decades of Excellence, Scholarship, and Impact at the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies (ICPS)

By: Dr. Seema Kaul Singh

Page No : 183-220

Abstract
This article traces the six-decade journey of the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies (ICPS) as a pioneering institution dedicated to constitutional literacy, parliamentary research, democratic training, and public outreach in India. Established in 1965 under the visionary leadership of L. M. Singhvi, the Institute emerged as a bridge between constitutional theory and democratic practice, fostering informed engagement with parliamentary institutions and governance processes. The article examines the evolution of ICPS from its foundational years to its contemporary role as a national centre for constitutional studies, legislative drafting, capacity-building, and civic education. It analyses the Institute’s academic programmes, flagship training initiatives on legislative drafting and newly enacted criminal laws, research publications, collaborations with universities and legislatures, and its outreach efforts aimed at promoting constitutional values among youth and citizens. The study further highlights ICPS’s contribution to strengthening participatory democracy through scholarship, institutional partnerships, and democratic pedagogy. While acknowledging challenges relating to digital outreach, global visibility, and institutional expansion, the article argues that ICPS has successfully adapted to changing democratic and technological realities. It concludes that the Institute represents a vital institutional pillar in sustaining constitutional morality, democratic awareness, and informed governance in India, while positioning itself for a broader national and global role in the decades ahead.

Author  
Dr. Seema Kaul Singh
: Director, ICPS
 

Price: 101

Instruction to the Author

Guidelines for Contributors

Articles, addressed to the Editor of the journal, for publication in the journal are invited from persons belonging to different walks of life including legislators, jurists, political scientists, academicians, lawyers, etc. The contributions sent for publication in the journal should embody the results of original research giving evidence of scholarship. The contributors must adhere to the patterns of style and format being described below:

  • The contributions may be on any theme relating to the domain of the journal, viz. constitutional and parliamentary studies. References should be as per the Chicago Style and should be in the form of footnotes.
  • The contributions should be of approximately 5,000-6,000 words (not including notes and referencing) and must have an abstract not exceeding 200 words and 5 keywords.
  • The contributions should be typed in single space in the format of 10.5 point text single font -'Times New Roman' and preferably in ‘M.S. Word’ package in English.
  • A separate title page should contain the full title, the name(s) of the contributors and their full addresses and a running title of not more than 75 characters and spaces.
  • The contributions may be mailed to the Editor at ‘journals-icps@sansad.nic.in'. The contributors should indicate their official designation, if any, and contact details in the forwarding e-mail.
  • Contributions simultaneously sent for publication elsewhere, will not be entertained.
  • All contributions must accompany a statement by the contributor/s that the article including the data contained therein has not been wholly or partially published or sent for review to any other journal.
  • All contributions should accompany duly filled in and signed letter given overleaf.
  • Contributors must send the plagiarism check (similarity index) report generated by Turnitin software along with the article. Contributions having similarity index as per the extant regulations will be accepted.
  • Copyright of the contributions published vests in the Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies.
  • The contributors are required to furnish a declaration that provisions of The Copyright Act, 1957 as amended from time-to-time have been complied with and that the contributors shall be solely responsible for any issues arising out of copyright violations.

    Selection of Contributions
  • The journal is peer reviewed and refereed journal; contributions received for consideration for publication are reviewed by domain experts nominated on the Board of Reviewers. Board of Reviewers for the journal comprises of domain experts, professionals, and academicians of repute.
  • The Editorial Board takes a final decision on the contributions in the light of the recommendations of reviewers.

All correspondence related to contributions should be addressed to:
The Editor
Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies,
Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies,
18-21, Vithalbhai Patel House, Rafi Marg
New Delhi- 110001
E-mail: journals-icps@sansad.nic.in

 

To
The Editor
Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies
Institute of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies
18-21, Vithalbhai Patel House, Rafi Marg
New Delhi- 110001

Subject:      Submission of Article for Consideration for Publication

Sir,

Please find attached soft copy of my/ our article entitled: “………………………………………………………….” for consideration for publication in the Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies.

I/ We undertake that:

  1. The article is my / our original research work and has not been submitted for publication anywhere else in full or in part.
  2. The work of others used in this article has been duly acknowledged and the citations have been given in the required format.
  3. The article is free from plagiarism and does not violate the principles of intellectual propriety right or copyright as per the latest legal norms and guidelines.

    Thanking you

                                 (Author-1)                         (Author-2)                         (Author-3)

Names:                        …………..                        ……………..                    ………………..
Signatures:                  …………..                        ……………..                    ………………..
E-mail Address:          …………..                        ……………..                    ………………..
Mobile No.                  …………..                        ……………..                    ………………..
Designation:                …………..                        ……………..                    ………………..
Address:                      ……………………….     ……………………….     ………………………

                                    ……………………….     ……………………….     ………………………
 

 

The ‘Journal of Constitutional and Parliamentary Studies’ is intended to serve as an international forum to discuss the problems, processes and prospects of parliamentary democracy and legislative institutions in India and abroad and become a vehicle of advanced and specialized studies in comparative constitutional law and parliamentary procedures. The journal is not committed to any particular political ideology or party. It provides an objective and independent forum for expression of diverse viewpoints and perspectives.
 

Introduction:

Contributions for the journal are invited from persons belonging to different walks of life: legislators, jurists, political scientists, academicians and lawyers. For ?Guidelines for Contributors? and other details about the journal, kindly refer ?ICPS Journals? at the Institute?s Website (https://loksabhadocs.nic.in/ICPS/). All communications including forwarding of soft copies of the articles along with certificate of originality, plagiarism report may be forwarded at journals-icps@sansad.nic.in.

Topics:

Constitution of India, Comparative Constitutions, Parliamentary Institutions and Procedures, Governance, Elections, Public Policy, etc.

Subject Covered:

Political Science and Law

Submit Your Article:

journals-icps@sansad.nic.in

Frequency:

Quarterly (March, June, September and December)

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