Constitution and Basic Structure

15 UPSC Mains GS II questions on Constitution and Basic Structure, 2013 to 2025, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Constitution and Basic Structure toppers answered.

1. 2025 Q11“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.15 marks · 250 words
2. 2025 Q12Indian 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.15 marks · 250 words
3. 2024 Q15Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.15 marks · 250 words
4. 2023 Q11“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.15 marks · 250 words
5. 2021 Q1‘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.10 marks · 150 words
6. 2019 Q12“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 ?15 marks · 250 words
7. 2018 Q3Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force?10 marks · 150 words
8. 2017 Q2Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.10 marks · 150 words
9. 2017 Q11Explain 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”?15 marks · 250 words
10. 2016 Q2To 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.12.5 marks · 200 words
11. 2016 Q5Discuss each adjective attached to the word ‘Republic’ in the ‘Preamble’. Are they defendable in the present circumstances ?12.5 marks · 200 words
12. 2016 Q6What 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 ?12.5 marks · 200 words
13. 2016 Q7Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution ? Discuss.12.5 marks · 200 words
14. 2014 Q1Starting 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.12.5 marks · 200 words
15. 2013 Q4‘The Supreme Court of India keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament in amending the Constitution.’ Discuss critically.10 marks · 200 words

Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Main) Examination question papers, upsc.gov.in. Topics are by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.