UPSC Prelims 2017 · GS Paper I
Question 48: Polity and Governance
The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which of the following ?
AnswerUPSC’s answer is (a).
The Preamble states the aims and ideals the Constituent Assembly set for the Constitution (justice, liberty, equality, fraternity) and the source of its authority, 'We, the people of India'. The Supreme Court, in the Berubari Union case (1960), called it a key to open the mind of the makers. Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties are specific parts that spell out particular rights and obligations; they are not the overall statement of the makers' mind.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: the Preamble reflects the mind of the Constitution's makers.
- (b) Wrong: Fundamental Rights are specific guarantees, not the overall statement of intent.
- (c) Wrong: the Directive Principles are policy guidelines, not the statement of the makers' mind.
- (d) Wrong: the Fundamental Duties were added in 1976, long after the makers.
Answer: UPSC’s key. Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2017, General Studies Paper I, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.