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	Friday , June 30 , 2000

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Debate on Constitution review must -- Krishna Iyer

EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE

AHMEDABAD, JUNE 29: If the water of Narmada can quench the thirst of parched souls in Gujarat, the Narmada dam should be constructed. These were the words of Justice Krishna Iyer while addressing the gathering at the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry here in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

The function was organised by the GCCI to mark the completion of the 51st governing body's tenure under the leadership of Mukesh Patel.

Being an advocate of democracy, Iyer said, ``There should be an open debate between all those who are involved and each party should present its views and try to convince the gathering of their view.''

Iyer was invited to speak on `Indian Constitution, Why reforms, What Reforms?' He said there could be no review possible for the entire Constitution as it is a marvelously crafted Constitution.

However, he added that there should be amendments in the Constitution so that in future, Emergency could only be imposed by two-thirds majority of both the Houses.

He said Article 356 should be used judiciously as it hampers an indiviual's right to live. Iyer cited the instance of the Babri Masjid demolition when President's Rule was imposed in all the BJP-ruled states.

Other changes Iyer suggested pertained to international treaties such as WTO which affected the masses. He said such treaties should be approved by the houses of Parliament.

Iyer wanted serious amendments in the selection, appointment and transfer of judges. Iyer proposed setting up of a judicial committee to take decisions in such important matters which concern the fate of the entire nation. He, however, added that the committee should not be just another committee but should comprise of people with high integrity.

On the occasion, Pranlal Bhogilal, chief guest at the function, released a directory which had the names and telephone numbers of all the 600 women entrepreneurs associated with the Chamber.