AIR 192 · CSE 2023 · GS2 · 60 pages

Mohit Gupta: GS2 answer copy

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

The questions

  1. Q1What is constitutional morality? How far does the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) align with the vision of constitutional morality as encompassed in the Indian Constitution?10 marks
  2. Q2What is a Privilege Motion in the Indian Parliament? How does the Committee of Privileges examine and deal with such motions?10 marks
  3. Q3Article 143 of the Constitution confers advisory jurisdiction upon the Supreme Court through a presidential reference mechanism. Examine the significance and scope of the Supreme Court's advisory jurisdiction under this provision.10 marks
  4. Q4Compare the powers of the head of state in India and the UK. How do their roles reflect the constitutional principles of their respective systems?10 marks
  5. Q5Since 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
  6. Q6The contributions of the founding mothers in the Constituent Assembly and their feminist perspective have shaped India's constitutional discourse. Discuss10 marks
  7. Q7“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
  8. Q8What are the constitutional provisions related to minority educational institutions in India? How have judicial pronouncements shaped the balance between the right to equality and the right to preserve minority identity in India?10 marks
  9. Q9In a rights-based democracy, institutions like the NHRC must evolve beyond symbolic presence to real-time impact. In this context, discuss the structural and functional issues within India's human rights framework.10 marks
  10. Q10Delimitation upholds the idea of 'one citizen, one vote', but its implications go against the principles of federalism. Comment.10 marks
  11. Q11The role of Governors in opposition-ruled States has been a flashpoint in Centre-State relations. Critically discuss how gubernatorial overreach challenges the position of state governments and suggest safeguards to mitigate such conflicts.15 marks
  12. Q12Despite increased political representation, Elected Women Representatives (EWRs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions continue to face barriers to effective participation and leadership. In this context, discuss the challenges EWRs face and suggest reforms needed to enable gender-inclusive grassroots governance.15 marks
  13. Q13The 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
  14. Q14The evolving relationship between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy has been a dynamic feature of India's constitutional journey, often necessitating judicial interventions and constitutional amendments. Discuss.15 marks
  15. Q15'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
  16. Q16The principle of checks and balances in the Indian Constitution is often challenged by the judiciary's expanding role in legislative and executive domains. Highlighting the reasons, assess its impact on the functional separation between various organs.15 marks
  17. Q17The credibility of the electoral process rests on the autonomy and neutrality of the Election Commission. Do you think the Election Commission of India is facing credibility issues in sustaining public trust in electoral democracy?15 marks
  18. Q18While cooperative federalism is rooted in the design of the Constitution, political considerations have given rise to competitive and confrontational federalism. Examine the role of constitutional and extra-constitutional institutions in reconciling these trends within India's federal structure.15 marks
  19. Q19Cooperative societies are integral to India's socio-economic development. Examine the governance and autonomy challenges faced by Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCSs) and discuss how the recent Multi State Cooperative Societies (Amendment Act, 2023) seeks to address these issues.15 marks
  20. Q20The growing number of undertrial prisoners in India reflects both systemic and procedural lapses within the criminal justice system. In light of recent Supreme Court directions, discuss the underlying challenges and suggest a multi-pronged approach to address this crisis.15 marks

The answers

Question 1 · 10 marks · 193 words written

What is constitutional morality? How far does the implementation of the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) align with the vision of constitutional morality as encompassed in the Indian Constitution?

Opening · a definition

Ans → B.R. Ambedkar asserted "Constitutional morality refers to ideas and values of Constitution permeating entire socio-cultural fabric".

Body · points

Tenets of Constitutional Morality

① George Grote defined it as "paramount reverence to ideals of Constitution" like Rule of law.

② Rooted in values of Constitutionalism i.e. limited government and ideas of preamble like Justice, Equality, Liberty & Fraternity.

③ Navtej Singh Case: SC asserted that "Constitutional morality supersedes social morality".

UCC aligns with ideas of Constitutional morality

① Art 44 mandating UCC aims to secure

secular equality based civil order.

② Gender Justice by: → Uniform method of divorce. → Equality in succession & inheritance. → Removing gender discrimination in personal laws.

③ It aims to build progressive rational society rooted in Part IV (DPSP) & Part IVA (Fundamental duties).

④ Simplifying legal structures to enable equal access to justice (Art 39A) & Rule of law (Art 14).

Challenges with UCC & Constitutional Morality → (1) Conflict between minority rights (Art 25-28) & Art 44 → (2) Equality based & not equity based. → (3) Difficult to reconcile tribal customs.

Law Commission suggested that UCC should come through democratic consensus to preserve constitutional ideals.

Close · a source

None written.