GS2 · Topic
Constitution and Basic Structure
Historical underpinnings, evolution, salient features, amendments and the basic structure doctrine.
222 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Constitution and Basic Structure that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Being non justiciable in nature has made Directive Principles of State Policies ineffective. Comment.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Directive Principles and DutiesConstitution and Basic Structure
Every person has a fundamental right to entertain such religious practices as approved by his/ her conscience. Do you think that 'doctrine of essentiality' restricts this autonomy?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
Discuss the implications of the 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act. How has the recent 'freebie culture' in elections impacted the fiscal health of states?
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic StructureElections and Representation
Explain how the Supreme Court's recent judgement on SC/ST sub-categorization affects the fairness of reservation benefits.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
SC, ST and OBCJudiciary
What do you understand by basic structure doctrine? Highlight the elements which constitute the basic structure as decided in various judgements.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Constitution and Basic StructureJudiciary
To what extent, in your opinion, will the 106th Constitutional Amendment Act help in increasing women's representation in the Indian political process?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic StructureWomen and Gender
Even though non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are an integral part of a nation's developmental ethos, the State has legitimate interest, legal authority and constitutional duty to curb the activities of those NGOs, which attempt to hamper national development at the behest of the forces inimical to India. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2022
NGOs, SHGs and Civil SocietyConstitution and Basic Structure
The Constitution of India provides several rights that empower the individual, yet it balances these freedoms with larger public interest. Discuss how constitutional restrictions on fundamental rights strike a fine balance between individual interests and societal interests. Also, mention the principles that are considered in evaluating the reasonableness of restrictions with reference case laws.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
This consists of multiple sub-questions on the Indian Constitution, parliamentary form of government, local governance, administration, human rights, and regulatory frameworks.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Constitution and Basic StructureParliament
The Constitution of India provides several rights that empower the individual, yet it balances these freedoms with reasonable restrictions in the larger public interest. Discuss how constitutional restrictions on fundamental rights strike a fine balance between individual interests and societal interests. Also, mention the principles that are considered in evaluating the reasonableness of restrictions with reference case laws.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
The spirit of the constitution of India represents a synthesis of Indian values, democratic and socialist movements in west and our independence movement. Elucidate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Constitution and Basic Structure
What is the process for amending the Constitution of India? Discuss the significance of the Kesavananda Bharati case in relation to the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic Structure
The insertion of "Socialist" and "Secular" into the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment sparked enduring debates on constitutional morality and ideological identity. Examine the historical context and contemporary relevance of these additions.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Constitution and Basic Structure
Constitution is a mere skeleton whereas constitutionalism is the soul of democracy. Discuss.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Constitution and Basic StructureJudiciary
Extending Sixth Schedule status to Ladakh could impact its cultural preservation and regional autonomy. In this context, critically evaluate the benefits and challenges associated with this potential change. (10M)
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
SC, ST and OBCFederalism
The tussle between the legislature and judiciary culminated in the 'basic structure' doctrine in the Kesavananda Bharati case. Discuss. What is the significance of the case in limiting the power of the Parliament to amend the Constitution?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper
Constitution and Basic StructureJudiciary
Enumerate the various kinds of writs in the Indian judicial framework and state the remedial significance of writs.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Fundamental RightsJudiciary
What was held in the Kedar Nath case? In this context discuss the need to reform sedition provision.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
Criminal defamation as legal instrument is often abused by the powerful to smother the freedom of speech. What is criminal defamation? Do you think is it justified in a liberal democracy like India?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
To what extent, in your opinion, does the value of justice in the Preamble to the Indian Constitution manifest in current policies of the government?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic StructureWelfare Schemes
Resource collection and redistribution remains a keystone in federal structure. How enactment of 101st Constitutional Amendment Act strengthens federalism?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
FederalismCentre-State Relations
The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 served as a remedy to the draconian measures undertaken through the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976 during the 'Emergency'. Critically examine.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper
Constitution and Basic Structure
Unless the Supreme Court's judgment in the M Nagaraj case (2006) is either modified or overturned, there won't be clarity on the issue of reservation in promotions. Elucidate.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2018
Constitution and Basic StructureSC, ST and OBC
In what ways does the preamble reflect the ideals and aspirations of the Indian Constitution? To what extent have these aspirations been realised?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic Structure
For the success and survival of democracy, an efficient opposition is quintessential. Elaborate What do you understand by Doctrine of Severability? Why the Supreme Court struck down the 97th Constn. Amendt and how it impacts the federal structure of India?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2021
Constitution and Basic StructureParliament
There is a need to ensure better ethical standards, accountability and management of temples in India. Discuss in the context of issues associated with state intervention in management of temples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Constitution and Basic StructureFundamental Rights
Decriminalisation of homosexuality by SC in Navtej Singh Jauhar case remains task half done, specially without socio-political sensitisation about issues faced by LGBTQIA+. Elaborate in light of ongoing debates on same-sex marriage.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2023
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
Judiciary acts as the supreme body that upholds the constitution and safeguards public rights of freedom of religion. Supreme court and various high courts have upheld the freedom of religion and navigate tension. Explain with examples.
Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Fundamental RightsJudiciary
Striking a fine balance between national security on one hand, and freedom of speech and expression on another is the key to democratic ethos. In light of this statement, write a critical note on the relevance and need for stringent laws like the National Security Act and Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in a vibrant democracy.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2025
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure
'Equality under the Indian constitution is not merely about formal equality, it also incorporates the idea of substantive equality'. Discuss this statement in light of constitutional provisions and relevant Supreme Court judgments.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 1 topper · CSE 2024
Fundamental RightsConstitution and Basic Structure