Review of Statute needed -- Jethmalani

Review of Statute needed -- Jethmalani
EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE

Kochi, Jan 22: Any initiative to amend the Constitution need not be considered as an act of treason or against public interest. It will only help reinforce public faith in the Constitution, said Union Minister for Law, Justice and Company Affairs Ram Jethmalani.

Talking at the inauguration of a symposium on `Does the Constitution need any change, if so what and why' organised by the Indian Association of Lawyers, here this evening, Jethmalani said the need for a second look at the Constitution was being increasingly felt. ``And 50 years was the right time for stock-taking.''

``The Law Ministry has finalised the terms of reference, the time-frame and the composition of the proposed committee which will be entrusted with the task of constitutional review. This is pending clearance of the Prime Minister and the Cabinet.''

Pointing out that many a misconception existed about the envisaged review, the Minister said the basic features of the Constitution would not be tinkered with while undertaking a review. Some portray it as an exercise to recast the Constitution on the basis of Hindutva. This reflects a lack of proper understanding of Hindutva. Whenever a group feels that the proposed revamp would not be in its interest, a hue and cry is raised. They should understand that it's not the Constitution that has failed the country, but certain individuals heading the institutions mentioned in the Constitution, Jethmalani said.