Introduction 2.0 Flashcards
Indian polity introduction level up questions
In Constitutionalism, what does “Supremacy of the Constitution and Rule of Law” denote?
SELECT ONE
A. The government should operate based on the preferences of the ruling elite.
B. The government is free from any bias from any particular authority.
C. The government is governed by rules, not authority or powers.
D. The government should have unchecked authority to make decisions.
STATEMENT C IS CORRECT
Statement C is correct: The government is governed by rules, not authority or powers. “Supremacy of the Constitution and Rule of Law” emphasizes that the government must operate according to established rules and laws rather than being governed by arbitrary authority or unchecked powers.
Statement A is incorrect. Governments operating based on the preferences of the ruling elite are against Constitutionalism principles.
Statement B is incorrect. Sovereignty relates to the government being free from bias.
Statement D is incorrect.
Unchecked authority is contrary to the principles of Constitutionalism.
Consider the following statements regarding the Constitution:
1. The Constitution is defined as the collection of legal rules providing a framework for the People.
2. The Constitution is a document of people’s faith power and authority directly from aspirations.
3. The Constitution derives its power and authority directly from the Government.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
STATEMENT 1 IS CORRECT
Statement 1 is correct: The Constitution is defined as the collection of legal rules providing a framework for the government.
It reflects the dominant beliefs and interests or a few compromises between the conflicting beliefs and interests, which are the characteristics of the society.
Statement 2 is correct: It is a document of people’s faith and aspirations. The Constitution derives its power and authority directly from the people. The Constitution is the fundamental and supreme law of the land enjoying legal sanctity. Hence, it is above all the laws enacted by the Parliament.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Constitution derives its power and authority directly from the people. The constitution is a special document that sets out the role and functions of the principal organs of the government, namely the legislature, judiciary and executive and the relationships between them.
Consider the following statements regarding Constitutionalism:
1. Constitutionalism helps recognise the government’s need but insists upon limitations being placed upon governmental powers
2. A country may have Constitutionalism but not necessarily a Constitution.
3. The Constitutionalism should be permeated with the Constitution 4. Constitutionalism envisages checks and balances and puts the powers of the legislature and the executive under some restraints, not making them uncontrolled and arbitrary.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four
B. ONLY TWO
Statement 1 is correct: Constitutionalism helps recognise the government’s needs but insists upon limitations being placed upon governmental powers.
Statement 2 is incorrect: A country may have a Constitution but not necessarily Constitutionalism.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Constitution should be permeated with
Constitutionalism, and it should have some in-built restrictions on the powers conferred by it on governmental organs.
Statement 4 is correct: Constitutionalism envisages checks and balances and puts the powers of the legislature and the executive under some restraints not making them uncontrolled and arbitrary.
Consider the following statements regarding the interplay between constitutional amendments and constitutionalism:
1. The doctrine of ‘Constitutional Receptivity’ suggests that constitutions must have the flexibility to absorb and institutionalize the changing socio-political aspirations of a country.
2.’Constitutional Morality’ is the idea that individuals in positions of power must exercise their authority within the norms and spirit of the constitutional framework, beyond the mere text of the law.
3. The ‘Unconstitutional Constitutional Amendment’ theory posits that certain constitutional amendments can be deemed
unconstitutional if they undermine the intrinsic core values of the Constitution itself.
4. The ‘Frozen Constitution’ theory advocates for a constitution to remain entirely unchanged to preserve the framers’ original intentions indefinitely.
Which of the above statements is correct?
SELECT ONE
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1, 2, and 4 only
C. 2, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 3, and 4 only
The correct answer is (A) 1, 2, and 3 only.
Statement 1 is correct.
‘Constitutional Receptivity’ relates to the concept that constitutions should not be so rigid as to be unable to accommodate necessary and constructive changes reflecting society’s evolving values and circumstances.
Statement 2 is also correct.
‘Constitutional Morality’ is a term coined by Dr B.R. Ambedkar, which suggests that the individuals and institutions that wield power must do so within the ethical framework that the constitution aims to establish, respecting not just the letter but also the spirit of the law.
Statement 3 is accurate as well.
The ‘Unconstitutional Constitutional Amendment’ theory, as developed in the context of the basic structure doctrine in some jurisdictions, provides that amendments to the constitution that would affect the fundamental core or ‘identity’ of the constitution could be declared unconstitutional by the judiciary.
Statement 4 is incorrect.
While a ‘Frozen Constitution’ suggests an extreme form of constitutional rigidity, it is not a widely accepted or practical theory. Constitutions are generally meant to be living documents, though some can be more resistant to change than others. No established theory within constitutional law known as the ‘Frozen Constitution’ advocates for a completely unamendable constitution.
Consider the following statements about the features of
‘Constitutionalism’:
1. It necessitates adherence to the established legal framework by all citizens and the state.
2. It often includes checks and balances among the branches of government.
3. It protects fundamental rights against the whims of transient majorities.
4. It also allows for the unlimited accumulation of power by one government branch for efficiency.
Which of the above statements is correct?
SELECT ONE
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 2, 3, and 4 only
C. 1, 2, and 4 only
D. 1, 3, and 4 only
The correct answer is (A) 1, 2, and 3 only
Constitutionalism embodies the idea that government should operate within a framework of law and incorporates a system of checks and balances among the branches of government. It is also about protecting fundamental rights and ensuring that a majority cannot infringe upon them at their discretion.
Statement 4 is incorrect because constitutionalism inherently involves limiting the accumulation of power by any one branch of government to prevent tyranny and ensure a balance of power.
Which of the following statements correctly reflect the principles of Constitutionalism?
1. It upholds the principle of the separation of powers among the different organs of the state.
2. It implies that the powers of government officials and institutions are defined and limited by law.
3. It supports the idea of having a rigid constitution that cannot be amended or changed.
4. It advocates for regular, free, and fair elections to uphold the democratic principle.
Which of the above statements is correct?
SELECT ONE
A. 1, 2, and 4 only
B. 1, 3, and 4 only
C. 2, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
The correct answer is (A) 1, 2, and 4 only
Statement 1 is correct.
Constitutionalism entails the separation of powers to prevent the concentration of authority in one organ and to ensure a system of checks and balances.
Statement 2 is correct.
It defines and limits the powers of government officials and institutions through law.
Statement 3 is incorrect.
While constitutions may be rigid, they are not entirely immutable; they can be amended, though typically through a more demanding process than ordinary legislation, to adapt to changing circumstances.
Statement 4 is correct.
Constitutionalism also promotes democracy, which includes holding regular, free, and fair elections
Consider the following statements about the importance of Constitutionalism in a democratic country:
1. Constitutionalism prevents the state from abusing its power.
2. It ensures that the state is not bound by specific rules and
guidelines, allowing unrestricted exercise of power.
3. Constitutionalism is not crucial for democratic countries like India.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The correct answer is (A) Only one
Statement 1 is correct.
Constitutionalism prevents the state from abusing its power. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Constitutionalism does impose specific rules and guidelines on the government. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Constitutionalism is essential for democratic countries like India to protect the rights of their citizens and ensure proper governance.
Consider the following statements regarding the concept of Constitutionalism:
1. Constitutionalism places limitations on the power of the government.
2. Constitutionalism ensures that the government operates according to the rule of law.
3. Constitutionalism promotes the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals.
How many of the above statements are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The Correct answer is (B) Only two
Statement 1 is correct.
Constitutionalism indeed places limitations on the power of the government by setting rules and principles that the government must adhere to. This ensures that government power is not absolute.
Statement 2 is correct.
Constitutionalism ensures that the government operates according to the rule of law. This means that the government’s actions are subject to legal constraints, promoting fairness and justice.
Statement 3 is incorrect.
Constitutionalism aims to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals, not promote it. It seeks to distribute power and establish checks and balances.
Consider the following statements regarding the function of a constitution in allocating decision-making power:
1. In a democratic constitution, the power to decide rests with elected representatives.
2. Monarchical constitutions give decision-making authority to a monarch.
3. Democratic constitutions rely solely on direct voting by the people for decision-making.
How many of the above statements are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The correct answer is (B) Only two
Statement 1 is correct.
In a democratic constitution, the power to decide typically rests with elected representatives chosen by the people.
Statement 2 is correct.
Monarchical constitutions indeed give decision-making authority to a monarch, not the people.
Statement 3 is incorrect.
Democratic constitutions do not rely solely on direct voting by the people; they commonly use elected representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
Consider the following statements regarding the Constitution’s approach to addressing societal aspirations and goals:
1. The Constitution focuses solely on setting limits on government power.
2. The Constitution enables the government to take positive measures to achieve societal aspirations.
3. The Directive Principles of State Policy provide guidance on promoting social welfare.
How many of the above statements is/are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The correct answer is (B) Only two
Statement 1 is incorrect.
The Constitution does not solely focus on setting limits on government power; it also enables the government to take positive measures to achieve societal
aspirations and goals.
Statement 2 is correct.
The Constitution does enable the government to take positive measures to achieve societal aspirations.
Statement 3 is correct.
The Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution provide guidance on promoting social welfare, economic development, and social justice.
Which function of a constitution empowers the government to take positive measures to overcome societal inequality or deprivation?
SELECT ONE
A. Allocation of power
B. Limits on government power
C. Aspirations and goals of a society
D. Decision-making procedures
The correct answer is (C) Decision-making procedures
The aspirations and goals of a society empower the government to take positive measures to overcome forms of inequality or deprivation in society. It enables
the government to work towards achieving certain societal goals.
Consider the following statements regarding the functions of a constitution:
1. The Constitution provides a set of basic rules that allow people to live together with trust and coordination.
2. It specifies how the government will be constituted and who will have the power to make decisions for specific scenarios.
3. The Constitution reflects the aspirations of the people to create a just society.
How many of the above statements are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The correct option is (C) All three
Statement 1 is correct.
One of the functions of a constitution is to provide basic rules for people to coexist harmoniously.
Statement 2 is also correct.
The constitution does specify the structure of the government and the allocation of powers.
Statement 3 is correct.
Since a constitution often represents the values and aspirations of the society it governs.
Consider the following statements regarding the elements of Constitutionalism in India:
1. Sovereignty means that the government is free from any bias from any particular authority.
2. Separation of Power divides power into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial.
3. Civilian control of the military force implies that the military should have the authority to interfere in the democratic decision- making process of the country.
How many of the above statements are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
The correct option is (B) Only two
Statement 1 is correct.
Sovereignty ensures that the government is for the people and by the people, not influenced by external authorities.
Statement 2 is correct.
It accurately describes the division of power into three branches.
Statement 3 is incorrect.
Civilian control of the military ensures that the military does not interfere in democratic decision-making.
Consider the following statements:
Statement I: Constitutionalism serves as a safeguard against arbitrary actions by the legislature.
Statement II: Constitutionalism provides a system where the authority of government is absolute but is not circumscribed by a higher law the Constitution.
Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
SELECT ONE
A. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I
B. Both Statement I and Statement II are correct, and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I
C. Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
D. Statement I is incorrect, but Statement II is correct
The correct option is (C) Statement I is correct, but Statement II is incorrect
Statement I is correct.
Constitutionalism safeguards against arbitrary actions by the legislature and limitation of governmental powers advocated by Constitutionalism. The
constitution has powers and functions of government, potentially infringing on the rights of individuals.
Statement II is incorrect.
Constitutionalism provides a system where the authority of government is not absolute but is circumscribed by a higher law, namely, the constitution. This political and legal philosophy has been instrumental in protecting individual rights and freedoms and shaping democratic societies.
Providing a system of checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power Thi.s principle involves separation of governmental authority among different branches, such as the legislative, executive and judicial branches, and each branch has distinct powers and responsibilities.
Consider the following statements regarding features of constitutionalism:
1. Limited Government
2. Individual Rights
3. Rule of Law
4. Separation of Powers
How many of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. Only three
D. All four
The correct option is (D) All four
Statement 1 is correct.
Limitation of governmental powers advocated by Constitutionalism. The
constitution has powers and functions of government, potentially infringing on the rights of individuals.
Statement 2 is correct.
Constitutions include fundamental rights or bills of rights that protect individual freedoms and rights, including religion, protection against unwarranted searches, assembly and freedom of speech.
Statement 3 is correct.
Under the Rule of Law, Constitutionalism helps promote everyone’s idea that is subject to the law. This principle ensures no one is above the law and the law is applied consistently and fairly.
Statement 4 is correct.
Providing a system of checks and balances to prevent the abuse of power and this principle involves the separation of governmental authority among different branches, such as the legislative, executive and judicial branches, and each branch has distinct powers and responsibilities.
Consider the following statements regarding states introducing Diarchy in the Government of India Act of 1919:
1. Assam
2. Bengal
3. Central Provinces
4. United Provinces
5. Mysore
6. Madras
How many of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
SELECT ONE
A. Only three
B. Only four
C. Only five
D. All Six
The correct optio is (C) Only five
At the level of the provincial government -This Act introduced diarchy for the executive at the level of the provincial government.
Eight provinces implemented the diarchy.
Except for Statement 5, All Statements are correct
Central Provinces, Assam, Bombay, Bihar and Orissa, United Provinces, Bengal, Madras and Punjab.
Under the system of Dyarchy, the provincial governments were given more powers; the executive head of the province was the governor.
