UPSC Prelims 2014 · GS Paper I
Question 59: Polity and Governance
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?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (b).
A constitutional government is a limited government: its powers are defined and restricted by the constitution, so that the State cannot violate the rights of individuals. It places effective restrictions on the authority of the State in the interest of individual liberty, which is the essence of constitutionalism. Putting restrictions on individual liberty in the interest of State authority describes authoritarian rule, not constitutional government.
- 1. Curbing liberty for State authority is not constitutional government.
- 2. Limiting State power to protect liberty is constitutionalism.
How you could have got this
- If you were sure statement 1 is not correct, (a) and (c) go: each of them includes 1.
What you needed to know: Curbing liberty for State authority is not constitutional government.
- Then, if you were sure statement 2 is correct, (d) goes: it leaves 2 out.
What you needed to know: Limiting State power to protect liberty is constitutionalism.
Only (b) is left. This one needs every statement.
Which options go is worked out from UPSC’s key and the options, not by a model.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Wrong. Restricting liberty for the State's authority is the mark of authoritarianism.
- (b) Right. Constitutional government limits State power to protect individual liberty.
- (c) Wrong. Statement 1 is false.
- (d) Wrong. Statement 2 correctly describes constitutional government.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2014, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.