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Concept and Salient Features of the Constitution

17 UPSC Prelims MCQs tagged "Concept and Salient Features of the Constitution". Free practice with answer keys, explanations, and timed mock tests on Anantam IAS.

  1. Consider the following Assertion and Reason:

    Consider the following Assertion and Reason:

    1. ABoth Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct and Reason (R) is the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
    2. BBoth Assertion (A) and Reason (R) are correct, but Reason (R) is not the correct explanation of Assertion (A).
    3. CAssertion (A) is correct, but Reason (R) is incorrect.
    4. DAssertion (A) is incorrect, but Reason (R) is correct.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    The Indian Constitution is indeed the longest written constitution in the world, and the Fundamental Rights chapter was modelled on the American Bill of Rights, so both statements are factually correct. The borrowing of Fundamental Rights from the US model has nothing to do with the document's length, which comes from its detailed federal, administrative and other provisions. The Reason doesn't explain the Assertion.
  2. Which of the following statements are correct about the Constitution of India? 1. Powers…

    Which of the following statements are correct about the Constitution of India? 1. Powers of the Municipalities are given in Part IX A of the Constitution. 2. Emergency provisions are given in Part XVIII of the Constitution. 3. Provisions related to the amendment of the Constitution are given in Part XX of the Constitution Select the answer using the code given below:

    1. A1 and 2 only
    2. B2 and 3 only
    3. C1 and 3 only
    4. D1, 2 and 3
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    * Powers of the Municipalities are given in Part IX A of the Constitution. - This statement is correct. Part IXA of the Indian Constitution (added by the 74th Amendment Act, 1992) deals with Municipalities and provides for their powers and functions.

    * Emergency provisions are given in Part XVIII of the Constitution. - This statement is correct. Part XVIII of the Indian Constitution (Articles 352 to 360) deals with 'Emergency Provisions' outlining situations like national emergency, state emergency, and financial emergency.

    * Provisions related to the amendment of the Constitution are given in Part XX of the Constitution - This statement is correct. Part XX of the Indian Constitution contains only Article 368, which deals with the power of the Parliament to amend the Constitution and the procedure for it.

    _Therefore, all three statements are correct._

  3. Which one of the following factors constitutes the best safeguard of liberty in a…

    Which one of the following factors constitutes the best safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy?

    1. AA committed judiciary
    2. BCentralization of powers
    3. CElected government
    4. DSeparation of powers
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    * The Separation of Powers between the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary constitute an important safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy.

    * The doctrine of Separation of powers entails the division of the legislative, executive, and judicial functions of government among different organs. This separation minimizes the possibility of arbitrary excesses by the government since all three organs act as checks and balances on the powers of each other. Therefore, none of the three organs can usurp the essential functions of other organs.

    * This demarcation prevents the concentration of excessive power by any branch of the Government. It thus helps to safeguard the liberty and rights of the people in a democracy.

  4. We adopted parliamentary democracy based on the British model, but how does our model…

    We adopted parliamentary democracy based on the British model, but how does our model differ from that model? 1. As regards legislation, the British Parliament is supreme or sovereign but in India, the power of the Parliament to legislate is limited. 2. In India, matters related to the constitutionality of the Amendment of an Act of the Parliament are referred to the Constitution Bench by the Supreme Court Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    1. A1 Only
    2. B2 Only
    3. CBoth 1 and 2
    4. DNeither 1 nor 2
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    Statement 1 is Correct: The key difference lies in Parliamentary Supremacy. In the British model, Parliament is considered sovereign. This means its legislative powers are supreme, and its laws cannot be challenged by any other body. In India, the Constitution is supreme. Parliament's power to legislate is limited by the Constitution. The judiciary can review laws passed by Parliament and strike them down if they violate the Constitution.

    Statement 2 is also Correct: This is a specific example of the limitation on Parliament's power in India. The Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court has the authority to review amendments made to existing laws (Acts) and determine if they are constitutional. This power of judicial review ensures the Constitution remains the supreme law.

  5. A Parliamentary System of Government is one in which

    A Parliamentary System of Government is one in which

    1. Aall political parties in the Parliament are represented in the Government
    2. Bthe Government is responsible to the Parliament and can be removed by it
    3. Cthe Government is elected by the people and can be removed by them
    4. Dthe Government is chosen by the Parliament but cannot be removed by it before completion of a fixed term
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    Option B is the correct answer. A parliamentary system of government is one in which the executive is responsible to the legislature. This responsibility means that the executive stays in power as long as it enjoys the confidence of the house. The moment the confidence is lost, it can be removed by Parliament by passing the no-confidence motion. This is the same feature which hampers the stability of the parliamentary system.

    ![Parliamentary System](https://d39jluplm5thpx.cloudfront.net//parliamentary_system_d5f3085f06.png)

    Options A and C are incorrect. Parliamentary system functions irrespective of whether all parties have representation. The government is not directly elected by the people but indirectly through their representative in Parliament. Therefore, the instrument to remove the government through public vote is not available in the parliamentary system; this is a feature found in direct democracies.

    Option D is incorrect. It goes against the fundamental principle of parliamentary democracy which requires an executive responsible to the legislature.

    Therefore the correct answer is B.

  6. Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of…

    Other than the Fundamental Rights, which of the following parts of the Constitution of India reflect/reflects the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)? 1. Preamble 2. Directive Principles of State Policy 3. Fundamental Duties

    1. A1 and 2 only
    2. B2 only
    3. C1 and 3 only
    4. D1, 2 and 3
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    The Preamble, Directive Principles of State Policy, and Fundamental Duties of the Constitution of India reflect the principles and provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948).

    1. Preamble: The Preamble outlines the philosophical foundations of the Indian Constitution which is closely aligned with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

    2. Directive Principles of State Policy: The Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines for the framing of laws by the government, aiming at creating a social order characterized by justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as outlined in the Declaration.

    3. Fundamental Duties: The Fundamental Duties, though primarily obligations of the citizens, also reflect the individual's duty towards the community as emphasized in the Universal Declaration.

  7. A constitutional government by definition is a

    A constitutional government by definition is a

    1. Agovernment by legislature.
    2. Bpopular government
    3. Cmulti-party government
    4. Dlimited government
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    A constitutional government is, by definition, a limited government. In a constitutional government, the powers of the government are restricted by a constitution. This document sets out the rules, principles, and framework within which the government must operate.

    One of the core features of a constitutional government is the separation of powers. This principle divides the governmental authority into distinct branches (legislative, executive, and judiciary) to ensure that no single branch gains too much power.

    It also guarantees fundamental rights, ensuring government actions remain within a legal framework.

    Thus, a constitutional government operates under checks and balances, preventing absolute power and upholding the rule of law.

  8. In India, separation of judiciary from the executive is enjoined by

    In India, separation of judiciary from the executive is enjoined by

    1. Athe Preamble of the Constitution.
    2. Ba Directive Principle of State Policy.
    3. Cthe Seventh Schedule
    4. Dthe conventional practice
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    Article 50 of the Indian Constitution recommends State take efforts to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State.

    Therefore the correct answer is B.

  9. Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the “Rule of…

    Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the "Rule of Law"? 1. Limitation of powers 2. Equality before law 3. People's responsibility to the Government 4. Liberty and civil rights Select the correct answer using the code given below :

    1. A1 and 3 only
    2. B2 and 4 only
    3. C1, 2 and 4 only
    4. D1, 2, 3 and 4
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    The Rule of Law is a fundamental principle of governance that ensures all individuals, institutions, and the State itself are subject to and accountable under laws that are publicly known, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated. Let's analyze each option in this context:

    Limitation of powers: The Rule of Law restricts arbitrary use of power by ensuring that no person or authority, including the government, is above the law. This maintains a system of checks and balances.

    Equality before law: A core principle of the Rule of Law is "equality before the law" (Article 14 of the Indian Constitution), ensuring that all individuals, irrespective of rank or status, are treated equally.

    People's responsibility to the Government: The Rule of Law primarily focuses on the government's accountability to the people, ensuring that it functions within the legal framework. It does not impose an obligation on citizens to be accountable to the government in the same way.

    Liberty and civil rights: The Rule of Law safeguards fundamental rights, protecting individual freedoms, justice, and civil liberties from arbitrary actions of the state.

    Hence, the correct answer is option (C) 1, 2, and 4 only.

  10. Which one of the following reflects the most appropriate relationship between law and liberty?

    Which one of the following reflects the most appropriate relationship between law and liberty?

    1. Aif there are more laws, there is less liberty.
    2. BIf there are no laws, there is no liberty.
    3. CIf there is liberty, laws have to be made by the people.
    4. DIf laws are changed too often, liberty is in danger.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    The most appropriate statement is: If there are no laws, there is no liberty.

    Laws provide the foundation for liberty. Without laws, there would be no structured protection of individual rights, leading to a state of anarchy where the strong dominate the weak.

    Liberty is meaningful only when protected by law. Laws define acceptable behavior, prevent exploitation, and ensure that one person's freedom does not infringe upon another's.

  11. Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying…

    Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government:

    1. AAn arrangement for minimizing the criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out to the satisfaction of all.
    2. BA mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day.
    3. CA mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people.
    4. DA device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    The Cabinet form of Government is a fundamental feature of a parliamentary system, where the executive (Council of Ministers) is collectively responsible to the legislature. This principle is enshrined in Article 75(3) of the Indian Constitution, which states that the Council of Ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha.

    Key Aspects of Collective Responsibility: - Decisions of the Cabinet are binding on all ministers and even if they personally disagree, they must publicly support them. - If Parliament passes a vote of no confidence, the entire Council of Ministers, including the Prime Minister, must resign. - This ensures accountability, transparency, and democratic control, preventing arbitrary rule by the executive.

    Hence, the correct answer is option C.

  12. Which one of the following statements is correct?

    Which one of the following statements is correct?

    1. ARights are claims of the State against the citizens.
    2. BRights are privileges which are incorporated in the Constitution of a State.
    3. CRights are claims of the citizens against the State.
    4. DRights are privileges of a few citizens against the many.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    Option A is incorrect: The state does not claim rights against citizens; rather, it is responsible for enforcing and upholding them. Rights are meant to protect individuals from arbitrary state action and ensure their freedoms.

    Option B is incorrect: While some rights are enshrined in the Constitution, privileges and rights are not the same. Rights are fundamental entitlements guaranteed to all citizens, whereas privileges are special advantages that can be granted or revoked by the state.

    Option C is Correct: Rights are claims of citizens against the State. They empower individuals to expect specific actions or non-actions from the state, ensuring protection of freedoms and access to essential services. The state has a duty to respect, protect, and fulfill these rights.

    Option D is incorrect: Rights are not privileges granted to a few but universal entitlements that apply to all citizens. The idea that rights belong only to a select group contradicts the fundamental principle of equality enshrined in the Indian Constitution.

  13. The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which…

    The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which of the following?

    1. AThe Preamble
    2. BThe Fundamental Rights
    3. CThe Directive Principles of State Policy
    4. DThe Fundamental Duties
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: A

    The Preamble to the Constitution of India serves as a window into the vision and intent of its makers.

    Here's why: - It is the introductory statement that lays the philosophical and ideological foundation of the Constitution, shaping the governance framework of the nation. - It expresses the aspirations and objectives envisioned by the framers, such as securing justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity for all citizens. - It enshrines fundamental principles like sovereignty, democracy, secularism, socialism, and a republic, which define the nature of the Indian state.

    While provisions like Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy further elaborate these ideals, the Preamble serves as a concise yet powerful expression of the framers' intent, reflecting the essence of India's constitutional philosophy.

  14. The main advantage of the parliamentary form of government is that –

    The main advantage of the parliamentary form of government is that -

    1. AThe executive and legislature work independently.
    2. BIt provides continuity of policy and is more efficient.
    3. CThe executive remains responsible to the legislature.
    4. DThe head of the government cannot be changed without the election.
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: C

    The parliamentary system is fundamentally characterized by the principle of collective responsibility. According to Article 75(3) of the Constitution of India, the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha (the lower house of the legislature). This ensures that the executive remains accountable to the elected representatives and can only stay in power as long as it enjoys the confidence of the legislature. In contrast, the separation of powers where the executive and legislature work independently (Option A) and the continuity of policy due to a fixed tenure (Option B) are primary features of a Presidential system. Furthermore, in a parliamentary system, the head of government can be replaced through a vote of no confidence or a change in party leadership without necessitating a general election (Option D).

  15. There is a Parliamentary System of Government in India because:

    There is a Parliamentary System of Government in India because:

    1. ALok Sabha is elected directly by the people
    2. BParliament can amend the constitution
    3. CRajya Sabha cannot be dissolved
    4. Dthe Council of Ministers is responsible to the Lok Sabha
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: D

    (A) is incorrect: Direct election of the lower house is a feature of Representative Democracy. Many Presidential systems (such as the USA) also have directly elected legislatures; therefore, this is not the distinguishing factor of a Parliamentary system.

    (B) is incorrect: The authority to amend the Constitution is a matter of Constitutional Sovereignty. This power exists in various forms of government, including both Parliamentary and Presidential models.

    (C) is incorrect: The fact that the Rajya Sabha is a permanent house is a Federal feature intended to maintain the representation of the States. It does not define the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature.

    (D) is correct: As per Article 75(3) of the Constitution, the Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha. This "Collective Responsibility" is the bedrock of the Parliamentary form of government, as the executive's survival depends on the support of the legislature.

  16. Consider the following statements: A Constitutional Government is one which – 1. Places effective…

    Consider the following statements: A Constitutional Government is one which - 1. Places effective restrictions on individual liberty in the interest of State Authority 2. Places effective restrictions on the Authority of the State in the interest of individual liberty Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    1. A1 only
    2. B2 only
    3. CBoth 1 and 2
    4. DNeither 1 nor 2
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: B

    Statement 1 is incorrect: The Constitution protects individual rights and liberties from the government's overreach.

    Statement 2 is correct: A core principle of a constitutional government is limited government. This means the government's power is not absolute and is restricted by a constitution.

    Thus, statement one is incorrect and statement two is correct.

  17. In the context of India, which of the following principles is/are implied institutionally in…

    In the context of India, which of the following principles is/are implied institutionally in the parliamentary government? 1. Members of the Cabinet are Members of Parliament. 2. Ministers hold the office till they enjoy confidence in the Parliament. 3. Cabinet is headed by the Head of the State. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    1. A1 and 2 only
    2. B3 only
    3. C2 and 3 only
    4. D1, 2 and 3
    Answer and explanation

    Correct answer: A

    In the context of India's parliamentary government, the following principles are implied institutionally:

    Statement 1 is correct. Close Link Between Legislature and Executive: By requiring Cabinet members to be MPs, a close connection is established between the legislative and executive branches. This ensures the government is accountable to the legislature, which represents the people.

    Statement 2 is correct: Collective Responsibility The principle of collective responsibility implies that the Cabinet functions as a unified body. If the Parliament loses faith in the government through a no-confidence motion, the entire Cabinet, including the Prime Minister, is expected to resign.

    Statement 3 is incorrect: Cabinet is not headed by the Head of State. In India, the President is the Head of State, but the Prime Minister leads the Cabinet. The Prime Minister is the head of government and wields significant executive power.