GS2 · Topic
Parliament
Structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers, privileges and committees.
129 UPSC Mains GS2 questions on Parliament that toppers answered in test series, CSE 2017–2025, most answered first. Open one to see how toppers opened, built and closed it.
Compare and contrast the powers and working of the Ethics Committee and the Privileges Committee in addressing cases of 'unethical' conduct and breach of privileges. How do these Committees complement each other in maintaining parliamentary discipline?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Parliament
In the context of persistent legislative dysfunction in India, analyze the evolving role of judicial activism in shaping public policy and governance. Using examples from landmark court cases, evaluate the effectiveness of judicial interventions in addressing governance gaps and safeguarding citizens' rights.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
JudiciarySeparation of Powers
To what extent does the level of internal democracy within political parties impact the functioning and legitimacy of the Indian party system? What reforms can address the challenges of inadequate intraparty democracy in India?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 9 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Elections and RepresentationPressure Groups and Associations
'The Upper House was envisioned as a reviewing chamber and not a rival to the Lower House.' In light of this statement, do you think the Rajya Sabha continues to fulfil this vision in contemporary Indian polity?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentFederalism
What is the significance of the Leader of Opposition in the Indian parliamentary system? How does the role of the opposition contribute to the checks and balances in a democracy?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
ParliamentSeparation of Powers
What is a Privilege Motion in the Indian Parliament? How does the Committee of Privileges examine and deal with such motions?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Parliament
“A democracy is only as strong as its Opposition.” In this light, examine the role of the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and suggest measures to enhance the effectiveness of this institution in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 7 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Both India and the USA adhere to democratic principles but their electoral systems exhibit significant differences. What are the key differences in electoral practices between the two countries?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
Comparative ConstitutionsElections and Representation
Executive accountability to the legislature through Parliamentary Committees has been the hallmark of the Indian political system. Comment.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Expression of dissent is central to the functioning of the Parliament. In light of this, discuss the role of the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in India's parliamentary system.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 6 toppers · CSE 2024
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Discuss the key function of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). What steps should be taken to revamp the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) in order to enhance its effectiveness as a true guardian of public funds?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
Despite its vital role for the smooth functioning of the body politic, constitutional punctuality remains conspicuous by its absence. Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
Constitution and Basic StructureJudiciary
Anti-defection law has failed to address and resolve the evil of political defection satisfactorily. Discuss various issues surrounding the Anti-defection law and recommend some corrective measures.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
ParliamentElections and Representation
'The delimitation process creates a wedge between representative democracy and federalism.' Examine. Also suggest measures to address the concerns of federal units.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
FederalismElections and Representation
Recognizing the pivotal role of urbanization as a driver of national economic growth, the Fifteenth Finance Commission has suggested major reforms for Urban Local Bodies. Evaluate the recommendations put forward by the Fifteenth Finance Commission in promoting and revitalizing ULBs in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Local GovernmentSeparation of Powers
Frequent reliance on the ordinance making power by the government, not only dilutes the basic tenets of executive accountability in a parliamentary democracy, but also overlooks the democratic traditions of building consensus. Discuss with relevant examples.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2020–2024
ParliamentExecutive
Discuss the role of the Department Related Standing Committee (DRSC) system in improving parliamentary effectiveness.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Parliament
Highlight the key differences in the scope of Freedom of speech and expression as provided under Parliamentary privileges vis a vis Fundamental rights. Why is it necessary to maintain a balance between parliamentary privilege and fundamental rights?
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 5 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
ParliamentFundamental Rights
Delimitation of seats is essential to ensure fair representation and uphold the principles of one vote, one value. Highlighting the challenges posed by misrepresentation in constituencies analyze the ramifications of population-based delimitation in creating federal tension.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
FederalismParliament
Highlight the pivotal role of the "Officers of Parliament" in the Indian Parliamentary system. Also, discuss the constitutional and statutory provisions for their impartial functioning.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022–2025
Parliament
'Lack of a binding framework for pre-legislative consultations in India limits citizen engagement in the lawmaking.' Propose measures to strengthen the role of public consultation in the legislative process.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
"Department-related Standing Committees serve as the institutional backbone of legislative scrutiny, yet their potential remains underutilised." Critically analyse the challenges faced by Parliamentary Committees in ensuring executive accountability in India.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
'The post of Deputy Speaker goes beyond ceremonial significance and is indispensable to Indian parliamentary democracy.' Discuss with relevant constitutional provisions and conventions. Also, examine the implications of the prolonged vacancy of the Deputy Speaker's post.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2025
ParliamentConstitution and Basic Structure
India does not follow a watertight model of separation of powers; rather a system of salutary checks and balances. Discuss. Also, explain the rationale behind the same.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
Separation of PowersConstitution and Basic Structure
The presence of Vigilant Opposition is necessary not just for a vibrant democracy but for its very survival. Discuss.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2022
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
'The declining role of Parliament undermines the fundamental principle of separation of powers, as it diminishes the legislature's ability to serve as a check on the executive branch and ensure a balanced exercise of power.' Discuss.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 4 toppers · CSE 2023–2024
Separation of PowersParliament
Examine the key mechanisms available to the Indian Parliament to scrutinise the executive. What are the major gaps in these mechanisms, and how can they be strengthened to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability?
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentTransparency and Accountability
The semi-presidential system in France presents a distinct model of power-sharing between the President and Prime Minister. Compare this model with India's parliamentary system, with emphasis on the constitutional safeguards each offers to ensure executive stability.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
Comparative ConstitutionsExecutive
"Delay in disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law weakens governance and undermines democratic stability." Discuss the provisions of the Anti-Defection Law and the role of the Speaker in its implementation. How does the delay in disqualification affect governance? Suggest reforms needed to strengthen the law.
15 marks · 250 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentJudiciary
Since Independence, the composition of the Indian Parliament has undergone a significant change with the changing socio-economic profile of the Members of Parliament(MPs). Analyse the impact of this shift on the overall quality of representative democracy in India.
10 marks · 150 words · Answered by 3 toppers · CSE 2023–2025
ParliamentElections and Representation