GS Paper 2
Constitution & Polity
Historical underpinnings, basic structure, fundamental rights, directive principles, federalism, inter-state relations, constitutional amendments.
2026
Right to privacy relating to self-identity is very dear to every human being and well protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. In this context, examine the effect of the amendment in 2026, to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
Discuss the position of the Governor in the federal polity of India. What is the nature of his power while giving assent to a bill passed by the State Legislature ? Is he bound by the aid and advice of his Council of Ministers in all his functions ?
What is meant by judicial legislation ? In this context, discuss the verdicts of the apex court allowing "passive euthanasia" and a "living will".
How far has the Indian federal framework been successful in accommodating regional and cultural diversities ? Highlight the role of asymmetric federalism and suggest measures to make dispute resolution mechanisms more effective.
Examine how the separation of powers is practised in India compared to the rigid presidential model of the United States of America. In this context, compare the actual authority of the Indian Prime Minister with that of the President of the USA.
2025
Discuss the 'corrupt practices' for the purpose of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Analyze whether the increase in the assets of the legislators and/or their associates, disproportionate to their known sources of income, would constitute 'undue influence' and consequently a corrupt practice.
Compare and contrast the President's power to pardon in India and in the USA. Are there any limits to it in both the countries? What are 'preemptive pardons'?
"Constitutional morality is the fulcrum which acts as an essential check upon the high functionaries and citizens alike. ..." In view of the above observation of the Supreme Court, explain the concept of constitutional morality and its application to ensure balance between judicial independence and judicial accountability in India.
Indian Constitution has conferred the amending power on the ordinary legislative institutions with a few procedural hurdles. In view of this statement, examine the procedural and substantive limitations on the amending power of the Parliament to change the Constitution.
Discuss the evolution of collegium system in India. Critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the system of appointment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India and that of the USA.
Examine the evolving pattern of Centre-State financial relations in the context of planned development in India. How far have the recent reforms impacted the fiscal federalism in India?
2024
Explain the constitutional significance of the "Basic Structure Doctrine". How has it served as a safety valve against majoritarianism?
Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. How effective have they been in reducing the pendency of cases in formal courts?
Examine the contentious role of the Governor in state administration with specific reference to the reservation of bills for Presidential assent and discretionary powers.
The Right to Privacy under Article 21 has undergone a transformative evolution following the Puttaswamy verdict. Evaluate its implications on digital data governance and personal liberties.
2023
"Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy." Comment.
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.
Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of a dominant position by multinational corporations in digital markets.
Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does the GST Council accommodate the federal spirit of the Constitution?
Explain the constitutional provisions regarding the appointment, terms and conditions, and independence of Election Commissioners in India.
2022
The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court. Discuss with relevant case laws.
Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute. Comment.
Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.
Explain the constitutional perspective of Gender Justice with the help of relevant constitutional provisions and case laws.
2021
'Constitutional Morality' is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of 'Constitutional Morality' with the help of relevant judicial decisions.
Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure a diversity-oriented judiciary.
To what extent does the federal design of the Indian Constitution accommodate sub-national identities and asymmetrical provisions? Discuss with examples.
Analyze the powers and procedures of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council and discuss how its legacy impacted the evolution of the Supreme Court of India.
2020
There is a need for simplification of procedure under the Representation of People Act, 1951 to ensure speedy disposal of election disputes. Discuss.
Recent amendments to the Right to Information Act will have a profound impact on the autonomy and independence of the Information Commissions. Discuss.
The French model of secularism strictly separates church and state, while the Indian model embodies "principled distance" and equal respect for all faiths. Compare and contrast.
Examine the scope of Article 356 in the light of the landmark S.R. Bommai judgment. How has it protected federal principles from arbitrary executive action?
2019
Do you think that constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on 'checks and balances'? Explain.
"The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees nowadays is exercising powers as an independent judicial body." Explain its functioning and jurisdiction.
On what grounds a people's representative can be disqualified under the Representation of People Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification.
"Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into an 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?
2018
Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine.
Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be declared by the President of India? What are the consequences of such a declaration?
Whether the Supreme Court Judgment (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Critically examine.
How far do you agree with the view that tribunals in India have undermined the traditional judicial hierarchy and compromised judicial independence?
2017
'The local self-government system in India has not proved to be an effective instrument of governance.' Critically examine the statement and give your suggestions to improve the situation.
Critically examine the Supreme Court's judgment on 'National Anthem' in cinema halls in the context of fundamental duties and constitutional patriotism.
Examine the constitutional validity of declaring legislative bills as "Money Bills" by the Speaker. How does it circumvent the scrutiny of the Rajya Sabha?
Analyze the significance of the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act and the subsequent NJAC judgment in the context of judicial appointments and executive participation.
2016
Discuss the essentials of the 69th Constitutional Amendment Act and the anomalies, if any, that have led to recent conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi.
To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution an example of asymmetrical federalism? Discuss its constitutional rationale.
The Uniform Civil Code (UCC) under Article 44 remains a contentious issue. How can the State reconcile the constitutional commitment to UCC with religious freedom under Article 25?
Discuss the evolution of the Collegium system for appointment of judges to the Supreme Court and High Courts. What safeguards are necessary to ensure institutional transparency?
2015
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.
The concept of cooperative federalism has been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the issues and challenges in realizing this goal in practice.
Does the Right to Life and Personal Liberty under Article 21 encompass the "Right to Die with Dignity"? Discuss in the light of the Gian Kaur and Aruna Shanbaug cases.
Analyze the constitutional scheme of distribution of legislative powers between the Union and the States under Article 246 with reference to the Doctrine of Pith and Substance.
2014
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 conducted by judicial activism in safeguarding constitutional values.
Discuss the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission and Punchhi Commission regarding the appointment and role of the Governor.
The Right to Information Act, 2005 has significantly transformed bureaucratic functioning from secrecy to openness. However, official reluctance and backlog of appeals remain serious challenges. Discuss.
Examine whether the creation of smaller states promotes administrative efficiency and economic development or exacerbates inter-state disputes. Illustrate with recent examples.
2013
The judicial activism in India has brought about revolution in the fields of human rights and environmental protection, but it has blurred the boundary between judicial activism and judicial overreach. Discuss.
Examine the constitutional scheme of distribution of financial powers between the Union and the States. How does vertical fiscal imbalance necessitate institutional transfers?
The Constitution (Seventy-Third Amendment) Act, 1992 has completed two decades. How far has it succeeded in bringing about socio-political empowerment of women and marginalized sections?
Analyze the significance of the Lily Thomas (2013) judgment by the Supreme Court concerning Section 8(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951.