So far as the constitutional development in the pre-independent India is concerned the year 1858 should be considered as the watershed. It was after the first war of independence (Sepoy Mutiny) in 1857, the transfer of power from the East India Company to the British crown was affected by the Government of India Act. 1858. It was subsequently followed by the Indian Councils Act, 1861 and the Indian Councils Act, 1892.
The President's role may at best be advisory; he may act as the guide, philosopher and friend to the Ministers, but cannot assume to himself the role of their master- a role which is assigned to the Prime Minister.
We shall examine here the usual procedures adopted for the purpose of amendment of written constitutions. Often the ordinary legislature is empowered to amend the constitution, subject to a special process like two-third majority or quorum. Some Indian constitutional provisions may be amended in this manner.