Judiciary

21 UPSC Mains GS II questions on Judiciary, 2013 to 2026, newest first, as UPSC set them. See also practice questions on Judiciary toppers answered.

1. 2026 Q12What is meant by judicial legislation ? In this context, discuss the verdicts of the apex court allowing “passive euthanasia” and a “living will”.15 marks · 250 words
2. 2025 Q2Comment on the need of administrative tribunals as compared to the court system. Assess the impact of the recent tribunal reforms through rationalization of tribunals made in 2021.10 marks · 150 words
3. 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
4. 2025 Q13Discuss 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.15 marks · 250 words
5. 2024 Q2Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases ?10 marks · 150 words
6. 2024 Q14Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world’s most powerful judiciary ?15 marks · 250 words
7. 2023 Q1“Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy.” Comment.10 marks · 150 words
8. 2022 Q1“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.10 marks · 150 words
9. 2022 Q11Discuss 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.15 marks · 250 words
10. 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
11. 2021 Q2Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.10 marks · 150 words
12. 2020 Q4The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.10 marks · 150 words
13. 2020 Q12Judicial 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.15 marks · 250 words
14. 2019 Q2“The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority.” Explain.10 marks · 150 words
15. 2018 Q12How 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.15 marks · 250 words
16. 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
17. 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
18. 2015 Q6What are the major changes brought in the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 through the recent Ordinance promulgated by the President? How far will it improve India’s dispute resolution mechanism? Discuss.12.5 marks · 200 words
19. 2015 Q7Does the right to 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.12.5 marks · 200 words
20. 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
21. 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.