Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
- “The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India.” Discuss. (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- “The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Instances of President’s delay in commuting death sentences has come under public debate as denial of justice. Should there be a time limit specified for the President to accept/reject such petitions? Analyse. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
- The size of the cabinet should be as big as governmental work justifies and as big as the Prime Minister can manage as a team. How far is the efficacy of a government then inversely related to the size of the cabinet? Discuss. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
- Though 100 percent FDI is already allowed in non-news media like a trade publication and general entertainment channel, the Government is mulling over the proposal for increased FDI in news media for quite some time. What difference would an increase in FDI make ? Critically evaluate the pros and cons. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
Indian Constitution
Editor’s Pick
- Discuss the significance and limitations of the ‘doctrine of basic structure’ in the Indian Constitution. (200 words)
- Examine the role of the Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities in protecting the constitutional rights of linguistic minorities in India. (200 words)
- What were the primary objectives behind the introduction of the Ninth Schedule in the Indian Constitution? Is the Supreme Court permitted to review legislation included in the Ninth Schedule? Discuss with reference to relevant case laws. (200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- Indian Constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Do you think that Constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’ ? Explain. (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- The Indian Constitution has provisions for holding joint session of the two Houses of the Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this would normally happen and also the occasions when it cannot, with reason thereof. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note “Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir”, temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
- Discuss the possible factors that inhibit India from enacting for its citizens a uniform civil code as provided for in the Directive Principles of State Policy. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
- The ‘Powers, Privileges and Immunities of Parliament and its Members’ as envisaged in Article 105 of the Constitution leave room for a large number of un-codified and un-enumerated privileges to continue. Assess the reasons for the absence of legal codification of the ‘parliamentary privileges. How can this problem be addressed? (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
History of Constitution
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
Features of Indian Constitution
Editor’s Pick
- Discuss the importance of the Preamble to the Indian Constitution and examine whether it constitutes a part of the Constitution. (200 words)
- Define the term ‘secularism’ and discuss how the provisions of the Constitution of India embody secular values. (200 words)
- Discuss how the Indian Constitution has evolved over time to meet the changing needs and aspirations of society, and explain why it is considered a living document. ( 200 Words)
- What is the significance of a Constitution in a democratic nation such as India?(150 words)
- What is the concept of the rule of law, and how is it embodied in the Indian Constitution?(Answer in 200 words)
- Explain the principle of separation of powers. What are the provisions in the Indian Constitution that embody this principle? (150 words)
- The basic structure doctrine of the Indian Constitution is a judicial creation. Analyze its significance and implications.(Answer in 200 words)
- Although the Indian Constitution incorporates elements from various other countries’ constitutions, it possesses distinct characteristics that set it apart. Discuss. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- “The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society.” Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty. (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances? (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
- What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution? (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Amendments in Indian Constitution Provisions
Editor’s Pick
- The 42nd Amendment Act introduced several crucial changes to the Indian Constitution. Analyze these changes. (200 words)
- Given that poverty serves as a suitable indicator of lack that governmental intervention can alleviate through reservations to uphold the constitutional principles of equality and empowerment, analyze critically if the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act has the potential to redefine welfare in India. (200 words)
- Discuss the transfer of powers under the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts. In your opinion, has the process of devolution been satisfactory so far? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism? (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- “Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power.” In the light of this statement explain whether Parliament under Article 368 of the Constitution can destroy the Basic Structure of the Constitution by expanding its amending power? (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Explain the salient features of the Constitution (One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough “to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services”? (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics? (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Functions & Responsibilities of the Union & the States 2 tag
Editor’s Pick
- Although the Governors of states in India are vested with a broad range of powers, there are certain limitations on their authority. Discuss. (200 words)
- Examine the role of State Finance Commissions (SFCs) in strengthening local governments in India. What reforms are necessary to enhance their effectiveness? (200 words)
- Although the measures taken by the Central government have influenced state finances, the primary responsibility for the financial challenges faced by state governments lies with the states themselves. Discuss.( 200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
Federal Structure
Editor’s Pick
- To what extent do you believe asymmetry in India’s federalism is essential? (200 words)
- To what extent do you think India’s federal inter-governmental institutions serve as a vital platform for communication and dialogue between the Centre and states in addressing unresolved governance issues? (200 words)
- Compare and contrast ‘coming together federations’ and ‘holding together federations,’ providing examples for each.(Answer in 200 words)
- Identify the different challenges faced in maintaining cooperative federalism in India, and propose strategies to enhance it. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s. (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralization of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots? (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
- The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India. (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, ‘Principle of Federal Supremacy’ and ‘Harmonious Construction’ have emerged. Explain. (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force? (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
- Though the federal principle is dominant in our Constitution and that principle is one of its basic features, but it is equally true that federalism under the Indian Constitution leans in favour of a strong Centre, a feature that militates against the concept of strong federalism. Discuss. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
Separation of powers
Editor’s Pick
- Examine the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Election Commissioners (ECs) in India, in the context of the principles of separation of powers and judicial review. (200 words)
- Compare and contrast the concept of separation of powers as practiced in India, the USA, and the UK. ( 200 Words)
UPSC PYQs
- “The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court.” Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws. (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
- Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. In this context justify the filing of large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive authorities. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Resorting to ordinances has always raised concerns about violation of the spirit of the separation of powers doctrine. While noting the rationales justifying the power to promulgate ordinances, analyze whether the decisions of the Supreme Court on the issue have further facilitated resorting to this power. Should the power to promulgate ordinances be repealed? (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
Comparison of Constitutions
Editor’s Pick
- Although the British had a significant influence on the framing of the Indian Constitution, there are several key differences between the constitutional structures of India and the United Kingdom. Discuss. (200 words)
- How does the judicial system of India compare to those of the United States of America (U.S.A.) and the United Kingdom (U.K.)? (200 words)
- Compare and contrast the affirmative action policies in India and the United States. (200 words)
- How does the interpretation of the right to freedom of speech and expression in India differ from that in the United States? Discuss with reference to relevant case laws. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India. (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What can France learn from the Indian Constitution’s approach to secularism? (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- India and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based. (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
Ministries and Departments
Editor’s Pick
- Why are the Departmentally Related Standing Committees (DRSCs), often referred to as ‘Mini Parliament’, ineffective in fulfilling their responsibilities? ( 200 Words)
- Should the Government of India streamline its numerous ministries? Discuss with logical arguments. (Answer in 200 words)
UPSC PYQs
Parliament and State legislatures
Editor’s Pick
- What are parliamentary privileges, and why is there a need to codify them? (200 words)
- Evaluate the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight in ensuring the accountability of the Executive in India. What additional measures could be implemented to enhance this oversight? (200 words)
- “How does the lack of effective functioning hinder Parliament’s ability to carry out its role in deliberative lawmaking and holding the executive accountable? Discuss.” (200 words)
- Critically examine the argument that the anti-defection law has weakened democracy by restricting legislators’ freedom to make independent choices and limiting decision-making in legislatures to a select few who control political parties. (200 words)
- What are the issues associated with the census-based delimitation of Lok Sabha constituencies? (200 words)
- Given the concerns of prejudice and partisanship surrounding Speakers of State Legislative Assemblies, should the authority under the anti-defection law be removed from their control?
- How do the powers of the Lok Sabha differ from those of the Rajya Sabha? (200 words)
- Discuss the veto powers granted to the President of India.(200 words)
- Examine how Departmentally Related Standing Committees contribute to the strengthening of parliamentary democracy in India.(Answer in 200 words)
- Under what circumstances can President’s Rule be imposed in a state? Additionally, outline the procedure for its imposition and its implications. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- “The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially.” Comment. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalization of the Indian Parliament? (250 words) [UPSC 2023]
- Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
- .Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India? (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations. (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples. (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker’! Do you think this practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India? (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a ‘useless stepney tyre’ to the most useful supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Individual Parliamentarian’s role as the national law maker is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss. (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss, in this context, the role of the Estimates Committee. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- “Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government’s accountability to the people.” Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- “If amendment bill to the Whistleblowers Act, 2011 tabled in the Parliament is passed, there may be no one left to protect.” Critically evaluate. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
Judiciary
Editor’s Pick
- The timely resolution of court cases is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring access to justice. In this regard, analyze the factors contributing to judicial pendency and outline the measures taken to address this challenge. (200 words)
- Despite the principle of separation of powers between the Legislature and the Judiciary, judicial activism has often undermined this distinction. Discuss with reference to India. (200 words)
- “Discuss the importance of improving the administration of justice at the lower levels of the judiciary for enhancing the overall justice delivery system in India.” (200 words)
- Although tribunals in India were established to ease the burden on the judiciary, they have developed their own unique set of challenges. Discuss. (200 words)
- What are the key issues related to judicial accountability in India, and what measures can be taken to address them? (200 words)
- Highlight the key features of the Gram Nyayalayas Act, 2008, and discuss its importance for India. (200 words)
- The Supreme Court has recognized access to the Internet as a fundamental right, yet the government continues to impose frequent Internet shutdowns to preserve public order. Discuss. (200 words)
- How have the courts’ evolving interpretations expanded the scope of the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution? Discuss with reference to relevant case laws. (200 Words)
- What are the challenges hindering Online Dispute Resolution’s (ODR) potential to provide just, speedy, and effective resolution of disputes? (200 Words)
- The Supreme Court of India recently acknowledged that the right to protection from the harmful effects of climate change is closely linked to the right to life and equality. Discuss the judiciary’s role in the constitutionalization of environmental issues. ( 200 Words)
- How do the shortcomings in the Indian criminal justice system affect the human rights of undertrial prisoners? What reforms are needed to rectify these issues? ( 200 Words)
- How would you define judicial activism and judicial overreach? Additionally, what are the concerns related to these concepts? (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- “Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy.” Comment. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine. (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgment on the ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to the appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
Elections & Representation of People’s Act
Editor’s Pick
- Explain the importance of the Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1951, in ensuring the effective functioning of Indian democracy. (200 words)
- “Identify the challenges related to election funding in India and suggest potential solutions to address these issues.” (200 words)
- How effective do you think the Representation of the People Act, 1951 has been in strengthening India’s electoral system, considering the persistent issues of corruption in elections? (200 words)
- Examine the role of Section 8A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 in safeguarding the integrity of India’s electoral process. (200 Words)
- In your opinion, how can conducting simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies enhance overall governance in India? ( 200 Words)
- Outline the grounds for disqualification under the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Additionally, discuss the remedial measures available to those representatives who have been disqualified. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- “There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act”. Comment.(150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- On what grounds a people’s representative can be disqualified under the Representa- tion of Peoples Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification. (250 words) [UPSC 2019]
- In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India? (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
Constitutional Bodies
Editor’s Pick
- Examine the role of the Finance Commission in regulating the financial relationships between the Union and the states in India. (200 words
- It is claimed that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) is the most significant office within the Constitution of India because it guarantees the financial accountability and transparency of the government. Discuss this assertion. (200 words)
- Examine the provisions of the Indian Constitution that safeguard the independence of the Election Commission of India. (200 words)
- In a democracy, a system of checks and balances is essential to prevent the misuse of power by the government in office. With this in mind, examine the role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India. What reforms would enhance the effectiveness of the CAG in fulfilling its duties? (200 words)
- How do you think the recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission can help enhance accountability and promote effective governance at the grassroots level in India? (200 words)
- Examine the role of the Election Commission of India (ECI) in maintaining free and fair elections in the country. What impact will the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners Act, 2023 have on the ECI’s independence? (200 Words)
- Can you explain the functions of the UPSC and outline the constitutional provisions that protect its independence and impartiality? (200 words)
- What are tribunals, and how do Article 323A and Article 323B of the Indian Constitution differ? (Answer in 200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body. ( (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
- Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct. (250 words) [UPSC 2022]
- How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position? (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- “The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play. Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well an the range of powers he can exercise. (150 words) [UPSC 2018]
- How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss. (250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful? (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Exercise of CAG’s powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government’s policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Statutory, regulatory & various quasi-judicial bodies
Editor’s Pick
- Describe the composition of the Competition Commission of India and discuss its role in promoting fair competition and enhancing the business environment in the country. (200 words)
- Explain the roles and functions of the National Commission for Women (NCW). How does possessing civil court powers enhance the Commission’s ability to address women’s issues effectively? (200 Words)
- Examine the criticisms directed at the Enforcement Directorate (ED) regarding its effectiveness in investigating money laundering offences and violations of foreign exchange laws. ( 200 Words)
- What are the reasons behind the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) being unable to effectively perform its role as a human rights watchdog in India? What factors have hindered its accreditation by the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI)?
- List the composition and functions of the National Commission for Women (NCW) and highlight the initiatives undertaken by the Commission to promote women’s empowerment. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions. (150 words)[UPSC 2023]
- Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures. (250 words) [UPSC 2021]
- “Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commission”. Discuss. (150 words) [UPSC 2020]
- Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
- “The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of griev- ances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain. (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the tribunals in India.(250 words) [UPSC 2018]
- Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- What is a quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
- What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, of 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
- “For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous.” Discuss in the light of the experiences in recent past. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
- National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the accountability of a government. In light of the above observation assess the role of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in promoting and protecting human rights standards. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]
Pressure Groups & Other Associations
Editor’s Pick
- Considering the role of pressure groups in India, analyze whether their influence has grown over time. (200 words)
- Examine the development of trade unions in India and explore how their role is evolving in contemporary times. (200 words)
- What do you understand by pressure groups? Provide examples and explain the various techniques employed by these groups. (200 words)
UPSC PYQs
- “Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India.” Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies. (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
- What are the methods used by the farmers’ organisations to influence the policy- makers in India and how effective are these methods? (150 words) [UPSC 2019]
- How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years? (150 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Khap Panchayats have been in the news for functioning as extra-constitutional authorities, often delivering pronouncements amounting to human rights violations. Discuss critically the actions taken by the legislative, executive and the judiciary to set the things right in this regard. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
Fundamental Rights
Editor’s Pick
UPSC PYQs
- “Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute.” Comment. (150 words)[UPSC 2022]
- Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
- Does the right to a clean environment entail legal regulations on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and Judgement(s) of the Apex Court in this regard. (200 words) [UPSC 2015]
- What do you understand by the concept “freedom of speech and expression”? Does it cover hate speech also ? Why do the films in India stand on a slightly different plane from other forms of expression? Discuss. (200 words) [UPSC 2014]