AIR 3 · CSE 2025 · GS2 · 54 pages

Akarsh Dhull: GS2 answer copy

20 answers by Akarsh Dhull, as written in the test. Each question opens a page with how other toppers answered it.

The questions

  1. Q1Critically evaluate the significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine in the five decades since its judicial pronouncement.10 marks
  2. Q2Though defamation law is vital to protect one's reputation and dignity in society, weaponization of the same to curb dissent and free speech is antithetical in a constitutional democracy. Comment.10 marks
  3. Q3Explore the legal-constitutional basis for the conflicts between the elected government and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor over the governance process in the Union Territory of Delhi. Analyse the role that the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi Act, 2023, can play in resolving it.10 marks
  4. Q4The objective of the Mediation Bill, 2023 is to have a mediation first approach to civil and commercial disputes resolution, with the purpose of reducing the burden of litigation on Courts, providing alternate means of disputes resolution, and enhancing the country's reputation as an investor friendly destination. Comment, with special emphasis on the salient features of the bill.10 marks
  5. Q5A middle point between socialism and capitalism, cooperatives bring the best of the both worlds. Assess the utility of the cooperative model in effecting rural prosperity.10 marks
  6. Q6Evaluate the efficacy of Forest Rights Act, 2006 (FRA) and Panchayat (Extension of the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) in attaining their mandate. Also, recommend measures to make these legislations more effective in attaining their desired objectives.10 marks
  7. Q7Differentiate between the legal and illegal means adopted by advocacy networks to advance their interests. What are the factors that limit their effectiveness as a pressure group?10 marks
  8. Q8Discuss the steps taken by the government in empowering Self Help Groups as a development partner in poverty alleviation. Also highlight the challenges in the working of SHGs.10 marks
  9. Q9Changing strategic realities come with their own constraints and possibilities. Describe briefly India's defense diplomacy in the context of contemporary geopolitics.10 marks
  10. Q10Explain the significance and implications of the China-brokered diplomatic accord between Iran and Saudi Arabia.10 marks
  11. Q11A key pillar of Constitutional morality is constitutional punctuality. Illustrate with suitable examples, how a lack of constitutional punctuality not only hinders democratic functioning of the State, but also goes against the spirit of the Constitution.15 marks
  12. Q12Free and fair elections are the lifeblood of a democracy, and electoral reforms are at the core of political reforms. In this context, highlighting the challenges to functioning of the Election Commission, suggest the necessary reforms needed, with special reference to the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and Other Election Commissioners ECs (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Bill, 2023.15 marks
  13. Q13Striking 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
  14. Q14The overhaul of India's criminal justice system is not only a long due reform, it is also imperative for decolonizing India's penal system. Elucidate in the light of recently proposed trinity of Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita Bill, 2023, Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita Bill, 2023 and Bharatiya Sakshya Bill, 2023.15 marks
  15. Q15What ails institutions of Higher education? Bring out the possibilities and challenges that come with the entry and operation of foreign educational institutions seeking to impart higher education.15 marks
  16. Q16Partnership between the State and CSOs for delivering development, while promising at face value, is fraught with challenges. Discuss.15 marks
  17. Q17Critically analyse the working of the POCSO Act, 2012 in addressing the menace of child sex abuse in society in the 10 years since its enactment. How far has the National Commission for protection of child rights been successful in fulfilling its mandate?15 marks
  18. Q18Discuss the challenges that keep India multi-dimensionally poor with special reference to NITI Ayog's National Multidimensional Poverty Index Report.15 marks
  19. Q19BRICS can serve as a platform for shaping a post-Western global order, but the potential of the grouping is held back by internal contradictions. Examine.15 marks
  20. Q20"WTO is dead! Long live WTO!" In the context of this statement, account for the reasons behind why the WTO is dysfunctional. In your opinion, what reforms are needed to promote resilient, sustainable, and inclusive world trade.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 210 words written

Critically evaluate the significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine in the five decades since its judicial pronouncement.

Opening · a definition

Basic Structure Doctrine refers to a set of principles which are intrinsic to the Constitution and inviolate to it which cannot be altered even through Constitutional Amendment. It is espoused by Supreme Court from time to time. Eg Federalism and was given in Keshavananda Bharti case (1973).

Body · points

Significance of Basic structure

  1. Maintaining democracy
  • Raj Narain case, SC upheld that free and fair election is basic structure
  1. Safeguarding Judicial review
  • This led to ensuring Constitutional balance and supremacy of Constitution Eg Minerva Mills → FR > DPSP
  1. Protection of Fundamental rights

④ Ensure federal Balance (SR Bommai case, it espoused that state powers are derived directly from Constitution and curbed use of Art 352)

⑤ Maintenance of Separation of Powers

  • Independence of Judiciary was considered basic structure (NJAC case)

⑥ Guide to international jurisprudence (ex Copied to Bangladesh)

Challenges created by Basic Structure

① legitimacy → No mention in Constituent Assembly and had thin majority (7:6)

② Judicial activism and overreach and made judges the ultimate sovereign (ex 99th CAA was near unanimous was struck down)

Close · a way forward

Basic structure doctrine is an important concept to allow for consistency in Constitutional values. The Parliament should also contribute to basic structure and give it a tangible, codified shape.