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Making of the Constitution: NBSE Class 11 (Arts) Political Science
Here, you will find summaries, questions, answers, textbook solutions, pdf, extras etc. of (Nagaland Board) NBSE Class 11 Political Science Chapter 10: Making of the Constitution. These solutions, however, should be only treated as references and can be modified/changed.
If you notice any errors in the notes, please mention them in the comments
Introduction
The Constitution of India, the longest-written constitution in the world, is a testament to the country’s rich cultural, social, and political heritage. It was enacted by the people of India, acting through their representatives in the Constituent Assembly, a body that represented all shades of opinion and all regions of the vast country. This assembly was a mini-India, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of its people.
The Constitution is a set of rules that creates an orderly society. It determines the form of government and the powers to be exercised by the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary. It also sets out the basic objects and ideals of society, making clear the rights of citizenship. The Constitution reveals the fundamental identity of the people and promotes peace and justice.
It was influenced by other constitutions of the world. Like Great Britain, Canada, and Australia, India believes in parliamentary government and the rule of law. Following the example of the United States, our Constitution laid down the principle of judicial review, with the Supreme Court of India acting as the final interpreter of the Constitution.
It also reflects the character and ideals of the leaders who fought for India’s independence. It incorporates the principles of equality and justice, abolishes untouchability, and directs the state to promote the interests of the weaker sections of society. It also links India’s foreign policy with the ideals of the UN Charter, promoting peace and fostering respect for international law.
The Constitution of India is a combination of rigidity and flexibility. Some provisions can be amended by a simple majority in the parliament, while others require a two-thirds majority and ratification by the legislatures of not less than one-half of the states. This makes it comparatively more rigid, yet reasonably elastic.
Textual questions and answers
A. Long answer questions
1. What is meant by the term ‘Constitution’? Bring out the significance of a Constitution in the light of the following statements:
Answer: A constitution is a body of rules and laws according to which a state is governed. A Constitution defines and determines the rules to create an orderly society. It determines the form of government and the powers to be exercised by the various organs of the government—the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. It decides the limitations of these powers and sets out the basic objects and ideals of a society. It also makes clear the rights of Citizenship.
(a) A Constitution determines the form of government and marks out the powers to be exercised by different branches (organs) of the government.
Answer: The significance of a Constitution in the light of the statement “A Constitution determines the form of government and marks out the powers to be exercised by different branches (organs) of the government” is that it provides a set of rules to create an orderly society. It determines the form of government and powers to be exercised by the Legislature, the Executive, and the Judiciary. The Constitution of a state is that body of rules or laws, written or unwritten, which determine the organization of government, the distribution of powers to the various organs of government, and the general principles on which these powers are to be exercised.
(b) Constitution limits the powers of the Government.
Answer: The significance of a Constitution in the light of the statement “Constitution limits the powers of the Government” is that it sets boundaries on the powers of the government. The Constitution limits the powers of the Government. It is a set of rules to create an orderly society. It ensures that the government cannot overreach or misuse its powers. It also provides for a system of checks and balances to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful.
2. Bring out the significance of the Constitution in the light of the following statements:
(a) It sets out the basic objects and ideals of the society.
Answer: The significance of the Constitution in the light of the statement “It sets out the basic objects and ideals of the society” is that it provides a framework for the society to function and progress. The Constitution lays down the goals and aspirations of the society and provides a framework within which these goals can be achieved. It provides for the fundamental rights of the citizens and lays down the directive principles of state policy, which are the guidelines for the governance of the country. It is also concerned with safeguarding the interests of the minorities and depressed classes. The Preamble to the Constitution retains the spirit and the language of the Objectives Resolution, which speaks of the basic objects and ideals of the Indian Republic, which are justice, freedom, and equality.
(b) It gives its Citizens a new Identity.
Answer: The significance of the Constitution in the light of the statement “It gives its Citizens a new Identity” is that it provides for a single citizenship, which means that every Indian is a citizen of India, irrespective of the state in which he resides. It provides for the fundamental rights of the citizens and ensures their protection. The Constitution reveals the fundamental identity of the people. The opening words of the Preamble to the Constitution are: WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA. These words proclaim that the people of India are the constitution-makers. This Constitution is not a gift of the British Parliament. It was enacted by the people of India, acting through their representatives. The Constituent Assembly represented all shades of opinion. It was composed of people whose credibility was very high. They all represented people’s hopes and aspirations. Our Constituent Assembly was a Mini-India, representing all regions and sections of society.
3. In the context of the Constituent Assembly of India answer the following questions:
(a) Who were the most important figures in the Assembly?
Answer: The most important figures in the Constituent Assembly of India were national heroes. Rajendra Prasad was its President. Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad were the ones whose contribution was outstanding. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Assembly’s most important Committee – the Drafting Committee. Among other eminent persons, mention should be made of Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant, Satyanaray’an Sinha, Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, and B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya.
(b) How can we say that the Constituent Assembly was a representative body?
Answer: The Constituent Assembly was a representative body. Although the members of the Constituent Assembly were not directly elected by the people of India, our leaders saw to it that all sections of society should have proper representation in the Assembly. India’s Constituent Assembly represented all regions and a broad cross-section of the society – the Hindus, the Muslims, the Sikhs, the Christians, the Parsis, the Anglo-Indians, and others. The weaker sections, and in particular the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, were given due representation in the Assembly. The Sikhs, the Anglo-Indians, and the Christians were represented by such eminent persons as Hukum Singh, Frank Anthony, and John Mathai. The Congress had an overwhelming majority in the Constituent Assembly. However, the supporters of the Forward Bloc and members of the Hindu Mahasabha and Muslim League were also there. “There was hardly any shade of public opinion not represented in the Assembly. Although indirectly elected… the Constituent Assembly was a highly representative body.” The Assembly was, thus, a Mini-India. It was intended to be the Mirror of the Nation.
4. As regards Sources of Constitution of India comment on the following statements:
(a) We, the People of India’ are the Constitution-makers
Answer: The opening words of the Preamble to the Constitution are: ‘WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA’. These words proclaim that the people of India are the constitution-makers. This Constitution is not a gift of the British Parliament. It was enacted by the people of India, acting through their representatives. The Constituent Assembly represented all shades of opinion. It was composed of people whose credibility was very high. They all represented people’s hopes and aspirations. Our Constituent Assembly was a Mini-India, representing all regions and sections of society.
(b) Heritage of the national movement had a strong influence on ideals and values enshrined in the Constitution.
Answer: India attained freedom in 1947 after a prolonged struggle. The nature and character of the national movement have had a strong influence on our constitutional system. For instance, look at the system of Parliamentary Democracy adopted by the makers of the Constitution. The Nehru Report of 1928 also envisaged parliamentary democracy for India. Secondly, partition of India along communal lines did not suppress the forces of Secularism. The Constitution, which came into force on January 26, 1950, prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion or race. It guarantees the right freely to profess, practise and propagate any religion. Third, the Congress Session of 1931 had adopted a specific resolution on Fundamental Rights and Economic Policy. In 1945, the Sapru Report laid accent on rights of an individual. About a year later the Constituent Assembly began framing the Constitution of India. The Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles were proclaimed under Part III and Part IV of the Constitution. Fourth, all our national leaders, especially Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Ambedkar and others had fought against social oppression, i.e., Untouchability. Principles of equality and justice are enshrined in the Constitution. Untouchability has been abolished and the State has been directed to promote with special care the interests of the weaker sections of the society. Finally, all those leaders who fought for India’s Independence were pacifists and advocates of World Peace. They opposed imperialism and policy of racial discrimination. Rabindranath Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Aurobindo Ghosh and C. Rajagopalachari, all believed that ‘National Interest’ and ‘Internationalism’ should go side by side. We have linked our foreign policy with the ideals of the UN Charter. Our Constitution directs the State to promote peace and foster respect for international law.
5. Examine the salient features of the Constitution of India with reference to the following:
(a) Democratic and Republican features
Answer: The Constitution proclaims that ‘Sovereign Power’ resides in the People. Democracy implies choice of rulers at regular intervals. Our Constitution is based on the principle of Universal (Adult) Franchise. It gives voting right to every person (i) who is a Citizen of India, and (ii) is not less than 18 years of age. Indian Union is also a Republic. Republicanism suggests the absence of a Monarch. The Head of the Indian Union is the President, who is elected for a period of five years.
(b) Parliamentary System of Government
Answer: The two main features of a parliamentary or Cabinet form of government are as follows: First, the Head of the State functions as a nominal head of the executive. His functions are chiefly formal or ceremonial in nature. Second, the real executive is the Council of Ministers, with the Prime Minister at the head. The Prime Minister and other Ministers are responsible to the Legislature for their acts. In India the real executive at the national level is the Council of Ministers. The President has to act on the advise of the Council of Ministers. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
(c) Centralised Federation
Answer: A Unitary State is one in which all authority and powers are lodged in a Single Centre. A Federal Government, on the other hand, refers to a system of government in which the powers of government are divided between the Central Government and governments of the Federating Units called States. Our Constitution has all the features of a Federation, namely, (i) coexistence of two sets of governments, (ii) division of powers between the Union government and the State governments, and (iii) a Supreme Court that acts as final Interpreter of the Constitution.
But there are some peculiar features of the Indian Federation. In India the national government has been vested with too many powers, such as (i) the power of the Parliament to form a new State or to increase or diminish the area of any State, (ii) the Emergency Provisions, (iii) the provision that the Governor of the State shall be appointed by the President, and (iv) the Centre’s control over All-India services. In view of these features, the Constitution was said to be “federal in form, but unitary in spirit”.
6. With reference to the salient features of the Constitution of India examine briefly the following statements:
(a) Ours is lengthiest Constitution in the world
Answer: Ours is not only a Written Constitution, it is also the lengthiest Constitution ever framed by a free country. It contains 22 Parts, 395 Articles and 12 Schedules.
(b) Constitution incorporates both the Fundamental Rights and Duties
Answer: The Fundamental Rights are “Justiciable”, i.e., there is a provision for their enforcement if they are violated. The Fundamental Rights are grouped under six categories. The Forty-second Amendment Act, 1976 added a new part (Part IV A) to the Constitution. It contains several Fundamental Duties, of which the following are most important: Duty to uphold and protect the unity and integrity of India and duty to safeguard public property.
(c) India is a Welfare State
Answer: Directive Principles of State Policy proclaim that India is a Welfare State. A Welfare State provides for its citizens a wide range of social services such as education, medical care and financial aid during old age, sickness, or unemployment. The Constitution of India lays down that “the State shall strive to promote the welfare of the people.” Under Part IV of the Constitution.
B. Short answer questions
7. Who moved the historic Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly in December 1946? Mention any of its three main points.
Answer: The historic Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly in December 1946 was moved by Jawaharlal Nehru. The resolution talks about the nature of Indian Polity, i.e., India is an Independent Sovereign Republic. It also speaks of the basic objects and ideals of the Indian Republic, which are justice, freedom, and equality. It is also concerned with safeguarding the interests of the Minorities and Depressed Classes.
8. When did the Constitution of India come into force? What is a Written Constitution?
Answer: The Constitution of India came into force on 26 January 1950.
Such a Constitution is one which sets forth in a single written instrument most of the principles under which government shall be organised and conducted. Constitutions of this type are enacted by a Constituent Assembly at a particular date.
9. Discuss the effect of a few other Constitutions on Constitution of India.
Answer: The Constitution of India seems to have been affected and influenced by other Constititions of the world. Like Great Britain, Canada and Australia, India believes in Parliamentary Government and the Rule of Law. Following the example of USA, our Constitution laid down the principle of Judicial Review. In other words, the Supreme Court of India acts as the final Interpreter of the Constitution. While framing the Directive Principles the makers of the Constitution were much inspired by the Principles of Social Policy laid in Irish Constitution.
10. Comment on the statement “Constitution of India is a combinati of Rigidity and Flexibility.”
Answer: Our Constitution presents a mixture of flexibility and rigidity. So far as the procedure of amendment is concerned the provisions of the Constitution fall under three categories. In the first place, there are a few Articles (such as Articles 4, 169, and 239-A) which may be amended by Parliament by a simple majority. Such a procedure is, no doubt, very simple and too elastic. Secondly, there are Articles which can be amended by a majority of not less than two thirds of the members of both Houses of Parliament. Such a procedure is comparatively more rigid, yet reasonably elastic. Then, there are Articles which fall under the third category. They require, for their amendment, a two-thirds majority of both Houses, plus ratification by the Legislatures of not less than one-half of the States.
C. Multiple Choice Questions: Tick (✔) the correct answer.
11. Which one of the following was not a part of the Key Slogan of the French Revolution?
Answer: (b) Justice
12. Which of these is not an effect of British Constitution on Constitution of India?
Answer: (c) Principle of Judicial Review.
13. Which of the following is not a correct statement about the salient features of the Constitution of India?
Answer: (c) Constitution cannot be amended by Parliament of India.
Additional/extra questions and answers
1. What is a Constitution according to R.N. Gilchrist?
Answer: According to R.N. Gilchrist, “the Constitution of a state is that body of rules or laws, written or unwritten, which determine the organisation of government, the distribution of powers to the various organs of government, and the general principles on which these powers are to be exercised.”
2. How does Professor Dunner define a Constitution?
Answer: Professor Dunner defined Constitution as “a basic law defining and delimiting the principal organs of government and their jurisdiction as well as the basic rights of men and citizens.”
3. What are the main features of a Constitution as per James Bryce?
Answer: According to James Bryce, “the Constitution of a State or a nation consists of those of its rules or laws which determine the form of the government and the respective rights and duties of the citizens towards the government.”
4. What functions does a constitution perform?
Answer:
- A constitution defines and determines the rules to create an orderly society.
- It determines the form of government and the powers to be exercised by the various organs of the government—the legislature, the executive and the judiciary.
- It decides the limitations on these powers.
- It sets out the basic objects and ideals of a society.
- It makes clear the rights of Citizenship.
5. Why is it important for a Constitution to limit the powers of the rulers?
Answer: There is a saying: “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Therefore, it is necessary for a Constitution to place limitations on the rulers to prevent any misuse or abuse of power and to ensure a fair and balanced system of governance.
6. What is the significance of a Constitution?
Answer:
- A Constitution is a set of rules that create an orderly society: It provides a mechanism for taking decisions as to how we can create an orderly and a just society. These decisions are found in the form of basic rules that make sure people work together properly.
- The Constitution determines the Form of Government and the Powers to be exercised by Various Organs of Government: The Constitution determines the form of government. Governmental power expresses itself in three forms— legislation, administration, and judicial decision.
- The Constitution limits the Powers of the Rulers (the Government): The Constitution places necessary limitations on the powers of the rulers to avoid misuse or abuse of power.
- The Constitution sets out the Basic Objects and Ideals of the Society: Every Constitution has a philosophy of its own. For instance, the Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) constitutes the philosophy underlying the American Constitution, and the primary aim of the Constitution of India was to create a Sovereign Democratic Republic.
Q. What is the philosophy underlying the American Constitution?
Answer: The Declaration of Independence (July 4, 1776) constitutes the philosophy underlying the American Constitution. The sentiments expressed in it, namely natural liberty, inalienable rights, and self-government, have continued to exert a profound influence on American political thinking.
Q. What was the primary aim of the Constitution of India?
Answer: The primary aim of the Constitution of India was to create a Sovereign Democratic Republic. The Constitution of India reflects the values of justice, equality, and fraternity, and provides a legal framework for the governance of the nation.
Q. What is the relationship of citizenship as outlined in the Constitution?
Answer: The Constitution outlines citizenship as a relationship between the individual and state, recognizing the principle of dual citizenship for the United States, i.e., the citizenship of the country and the citizenship of the State where a person resides or where someone is having a permanent home, while the Constitution of India provides a single uniform citizenship for the whole of India.
Q. Can you explain the concept of ‘Political Culture’ as coined by Professor Alan Ball?
Answer: ‘Political Culture’, according to Professor Alan Ball, is a term that represents the particular attitudes, beliefs, and ideas that give people a unique identity. It can vary according to the degree of participation in the political process by the citizens. For instance, in a democracy, individuals play a more active role in the political process and expect to influence decisions made by governments.
Q. Define a ‘Just’ Constitution?
Answer: A ‘Just’ Constitution is one which promotes the ideals of peace, prosperity, justice and happiness. The state should enable citizens to realize “social good” on the largest possible scale. This is only possible if the Constitution provides “rights”, without which, as Laski points out, “no man can seek in general to be himself at his best”.
Q. What was the purpose of the Constituent Assembly in India?
Answer: The purpose of the Constituent Assembly in India was to draft the Constitution of free India, even before India had attained freedom. This was set up in accordance with the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946. Under this scheme, the members of the Constituent Assembly were elected by the Provincial Assemblies and the representatives of the Princely States were nominated by the rulers of those states.
Q. Explain the composition and number of states in the Constituent Assembly.
Answer: Each Province and each Princely State was allotted seats roughly in the ratio of 1: 1,000,000 in the Constituent Assembly, i.e., a population of ten lakh was represented by one member. Thus, the Constituent Assembly, meant for undivided India, was to consist of 385 members – the Provinces were to elect 292 members, whereas Princely States were allocated 93 seats. As a result of the partition of India, the membership got reduced to 308.
Q. Who were some of the most important figures in the Constituent Assembly?
Answer: Some of the most important figures in the Constituent Assembly were national heroes. Rajendra Prasad was its President. Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel, and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad were among those whose contribution was outstanding. B.R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Assembly’s most important Committee-the Drafting Committee. Other eminent persons included Pandit Govind Ballabh Pant, Satyanaray’an Sinha, Shyama Prasad Mookerjee, and B. Pattabhi Sitaramayya.
Q. Who was the Interim President of the Constituent Assembly and who was elected its permanent President?
Answer: The Interim President of the Constituent Assembly was Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha, the oldest member of the House. On December 11, 1946, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected its permanent President.
Q. What were the debates in the Constituent Assembly regarding the nature of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: There were genuine differences of opinion among the members of the Constituent Assembly on the nature of the Indian Constitution. Some of the main debates were: whether India should have a centralized parliamentary constitution or a Panchayat-based Gandhian Constitution, whether the right to property should be made a Fundamental Right or not, and the members’ notions of Socialism. They also had doubts about the success of “Adult Suffrage” in India, but the principle of universal adult suffrage was chosen without an intensive debate.
Q. Describe the representation in the Constituent Assembly and its role as a ‘Mirror of the Nation.’
Answer: The Constituent Assembly of India was a highly representative body, even though the members were not directly elected by the people. It represented all regions and a broad cross-section of the society, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Parsis, Anglo-Indians, and others. The weaker sections, particularly the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, were given due representation. Eminent individuals like Hukum Singh, Frank Anthony, and John Mathai represented Sikhs, Anglo-Indians, and Christians, respectively. Also, political representation was ensured as Congress, Forward Bloc, Hindu Mahasabha, and Muslim League members were present. The Assembly was intended to be a reflection or ‘Mirror of the Nation.’
Q. Discuss the process of enacting the Indian Constitution, including the formation of Committees and their roles.
Answer: The process of enacting the Indian Constitution was elaborate and thorough. The Constituent Assembly formed eight major committees to examine various issues in depth. These included the Advisory Committee, the Drafting Committee, the Union Subjects Committee, the Union Constitution Committee, and the Provincial Constitution Committee. Each Committee was chaired by significant leaders like Nehru, Patel, Rajendra Prasad, or Maulana Azad.
The Drafting Committee, chaired by B.R. Ambedkar, was the most crucial as it was responsible for drafting the Constitution. After publishing the Draft Constitution on February 26, 1948, the Assembly received feedback from public bodies, private individuals, lawyers, and judges. The Drafting Committee revised the Draft Constitution based on these inputs, and it was finally enacted and adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949.
Q. Detail the timeline from the first sitting of the Constituent Assembly to the commencement of the Indian Constitution.
Answer: The Constituent Assembly had its first sitting on December 9, 1946, with Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha, the oldest member of the House, elected as the Interim President. On December 11, 1946, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected its permanent President. Though the Assembly began its deliberations in December 1946, they gathered momentum only after India attained Independence in August 1947.
The Draft Constitution, prepared by the Drafting Committee, was published on February 26, 1948, followed by the reception and consideration of hundreds of communications from various sources. Post revision, the Constitution was enacted and adopted by the Constituent Assembly on November 26, 1949. The Constitution came into force on January 26, 1950, marking the beginning of Dr. Rajendra Prasad’s first term as President of the Indian Union. The Constituent Assembly transitioned into the Parliament of India under the new Constitution’s transitional provisions.
Q. Who are proclaimed as the constitution-makers of India according to the Preamble of the Constitution?
Answer: The opening words of the Preamble to the Constitution are: WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA. These words proclaim that the people of India are the constitution-makers.
Q. Was the Constitution of India a gift from the British Parliament?
Answer: No, the Constitution is not a gift of the British Parliament. It was enacted by the people of India, acting through their representatives.
Q. What kind of system did the makers of the Constitution of India adopt and where can we see a similar system envisaged?
Answer: The makers of the Constitution of India adopted a system of Parliamentary Democracy. The Nehru Report of 1928 also envisaged parliamentary democracy for India.
Q. How does the Constitution of India regard secularism and discrimination on grounds of religion or race?
Answer: The Constitution, which came into force on January 26, 1950, prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion or race. It guarantees the right freely to profess, practise and propagate any religion, asserting the secular nature of the Indian state.
Q. Where in the Constitution of India can we find the Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles?
Answer: The Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles were proclaimed under Part III and Part IV of the Constitution.
Q. How does the Constitution of India address social oppression, especially untouchability?
Answer: Our national leaders, especially Mahatma Gandhi, Dr. Ambedkar and others had fought against social oppression, i.e., Untouchability. Principles of equality and justice are enshrined in the Constitution. Untouchability has been abolished and the State has been directed to promote with special care the interests of the weaker sections of the society.
Q. What role did ‘National Interest’ and ‘Internationalism’ play in the Constitution of India and what is the Constitution’s stance on peace and international law?
Answer: ‘National Interest’ and ‘Internationalism’ played a significant role in the Constitution as all those leaders who fought for India’s Independence were pacifists and advocates of World Peace. They opposed imperialism and policy of racial discrimination. Our Constitution directs the State to promote peace and foster respect for international law. We have linked our foreign policy with the ideals of the UN Charter.
Q. How has the Constitution of India been influenced by other constitutions of the world?
Answer: Our Constitution seems to have been affected and influenced by other Constitutions of the world. Like Great Britain, Canada and Australia, India believes in Parliamentary Government and the Rule of Law. Following the example of USA, our Constitution laid down the principle of Judicial Review. In other words, the Supreme Court of India acts as the final Interpreter of the Constitution. While framing the Directive Principles, the makers of the Constitution were much inspired by the ‘Principles of Social Policy’ laid in the Irish Constitution. As a matter of fact, there is nothing to be ashamed of in doing so. No Constituent Assembly can ignore the progress made by other nations in the field of Law or Government.
Q. What is the Objectives Resolution and who moved it in the Constituent Assembly?
Answer: The Objectives Resolution was a resolution moved in the Constituent Assembly by Jawaharlal Nehru in December 1946. It was the initial step taken to draft the Constitution of India.
Q. Enumerate the main points of the Objectives Resolution.
Answer: The Objectives Resolution declared the following main points:
- India is an Independent Sovereign Republic.
- India shall be a Union of territories that comprised British India, Indian States, and other territories willing to be part of the Indian Union.
- The Sovereign Independent India shall derive all powers from the people.
- Justice (social, economic, and political), equality of status and opportunity, and freedom of thought, expression, belief, faith, and worship shall be secured to all people of India.
- Adequate safeguards shall be provided for minorities, depressed and other backward classes, and backward and tribal areas.
- The integrity of the territories of the Republic and its sovereign rights on land, sea, and air shall be maintained according to justice and the law of civilized nations.
- India, this ancient land, would contribute to the promotion of world peace and the welfare of mankind.
Q. How was the Objectives Resolution incorporated into the Constitution of India?
Answer: The Objectives Resolution was examined by the Drafting Committee, which made certain verbal changes to it. The Preamble to the Constitution retains the spirit and, as far as possible, the language of the Objectives Resolution, thereby incorporating it into the Constitution.
Q. What is the significance of January 26, 2000, in the context of the Indian Constitution?
Answer: January 26, 2000, marked the Golden Jubilee of the Republic Day of India. This day was significant as it celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Indian Republic and highlighted the durability and successful delivery of the Constitution.
Q. Describe the salient features of the Indian Constitution.
Answer: The Indian Constitution is characterized by the following salient features:
- It is a written constitution, setting forth in a single document most of the principles under which the government is organized and conducted. It was enacted by a Constituent Assembly.
- It is the lengthiest constitution in the world, containing 22 Parts, 395 Articles, and 12 Schedules.
- The Constitution is democratic and republican in nature. It proclaims that ‘Sovereign Power’ resides in the people. The principle of Universal (Adult) Franchise is applied, giving voting right to every person who is a Citizen of India, and is not less than 18 years of age.
- The Indian Union is also a Republic, suggesting the absence of a Monarch. The President is the Head of the Indian Union, elected for a period of five years.
- The Constitution adopts the Parliamentary or the Cabinet System of Government, wherein the Head of the State functions as a nominal head of the executive. The real executive is the Council of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
Q. What are the two main features of a parliamentary or Cabinet form of government as adopted by the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Indian Constitution adopts a parliamentary or Cabinet form of government characterized by two main features:
- The Head of the State, who in India is the President, functions as a nominal head of the executive. His functions are chiefly formal or ceremonial in nature.
- The real executive power lies with the Council of Ministers, with the Prime Minister at the head. The Prime Minister and other Ministers are responsible to the Legislature for their acts. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the House of the People (Lok Sabha).
Q. What is a Centralised Federation and how does it differ from a Unitary State?
Answer: A Centralised Federation refers to a system of government where powers of governance are divided between the Central Government and the governments of the federating units called States. This contrasts with a Unitary State where all authority and powers are vested in a single centre. The Constitution of India embodies all the features of a federation, such as coexistence of two sets of governments, division of powers between the Union government and the State governments, and a Supreme Court that acts as the final interpreter of the Constitution.
Q. What are some peculiar features of the Indian Federation that make it “federal in form, but unitary in spirit”?
Answer: The Indian Federation has several peculiar features that lead to it being described as “federal in form, but unitary in spirit”. The national government is vested with substantial powers such as the power of the Parliament to form a new State or to increase or diminish the area of any State, the Emergency Provisions, the provision that the Governor of the State shall be appointed by the President, and the Centre’s control over All-India services.
Q. What is the nature of citizenship under the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Indian Constitution recognises a single citizenship. Every Indian is a citizen of India and has the same rights of citizenship, irrespective of the State they reside in.
Q. How does the Indian Constitution provide for the representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs)?
Answer: The Indian Constitution provides for the representation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SCs and STs) in state offices and political representations. Seats are reserved for them in the Lok Sabha and also in the Legislative Assemblies of the States. The Delimitation (Amendment) Act, 2008 reserved 84 seats for the SCs and 47 seats for the STs in the Lok Sabha.
Q. What are the Fundamental Rights and Duties as defined in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Fundamental Rights, as defined by the Indian Constitution, are justiciable and are grouped under six categories. The Forty-second Amendment Act, 1976 added a new part (Part IV A) to the Constitution that contains several Fundamental Duties. Some of the most important among them are the duty to uphold and protect the unity and integrity of India and the duty to safeguard public property.
Q. What do the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution proclaim about India as a Welfare State?
Answer: The Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution proclaim that India is a Welfare State. As a Welfare State, it aims to provide a wide range of social services for its citizens, such as education, medical care, and financial aid during old age, sickness, or unemployment. These Principles direct the state to ensure employment, education, and assistance in cases of old age, sickness and disablement, and ensure that the Economic System does not result in the concentration of wealth. They are not “enforceable” or “justiciable”, yet they are fundamental in the governance of the country and it is the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.
Q. Can you explain the Doctrine of Judicial Review as it is applied in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Doctrine of Judicial Review as applied in the Indian Constitution involves the distribution of powers between the National government and the State governments. If the Federation is to be preserved, each of the two sets of government should honour the Constitution. The Supreme Court decides the disputes between the several governments and upholds the Constitution. The High Courts also exercise the power of judicial review. The Supreme Court is the highest judicial body, and its judgement is final in any given case.
43. What does it mean when we say that the Indian Constitution aims to establish a Secular State?
Answer: When the Indian Constitution is said to aim at establishing a Secular State, it means that it is a state that is not wedded to any particular religious dogma or creed. It allows equal freedom of faith and worship to all. The Constitution guarantees freedom of conscience to all, irrespective of their beliefs and practices.
Additional/extra MCQs
1. Who defined the Constitution as “a basic law defining and delimiting the principal organs of government and their jurisdiction as well as the basic rights of men and citizens”?
A. R.N. Gilchrist B. John Locke C. Professor Dunner D. James Bryce
Answer: C. Professor Dunner
2. Who said that the true State must be a “Constitutional State” in which men recognise the Rule of Law?
A. Professor Dunner B. James Bryce C. R.N. Gilchrist D. John Locke
Answer: D. John Locke
3. According to R.N. Gilchrist, what does a Constitution of a state determine?
A. The organisation of government only B. The distribution of powers to the various organs of government only C. The general principles on which these powers are to be exercised only D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
4. What does a Constitution of a State or a nation consist of according to James Bryce?
A. The rules or laws which determine the form of the government B. The respective rights and duties of the citizens towards the government C. The limitations on the powers of the rulers D. Both A and B
Answer: D. Both A and B
5. What is the primary aim of the Constitution of India?
A. To create a democratic society B. To create a sovereign democratic republic C. To establish an autocracy D. To form a theocracy
Answer: B. To create a sovereign democratic republic
6. Which document constitutes the philosophy underlying the American Constitution?
A. The Bill of Rights B. The Magna Carta C. The Declaration of Independence D. The Federalist Papers
Answer: C. The Declaration of Independence
Q. What does a Constitution set out?
A. The basic objects and ideals of a society B. The rules to create an orderly society C. The form of government and the powers to be exercised by various organs of government D. All of the above
Answer: D. All of the above
Q. What does the Constitution limit?
A. The powers of the citizens B. The powers of the rulers C. The form of government D. The basic objects and ideals of a society
Answer: B. The powers of the rulers
Q. What does the Constitution provide to create an orderly society?
A. A mechanism for taking decisions B. A list of rights and duties of citizens C. A list of rulers D. A list of punishments for wrongdoings
Answer: A. A mechanism for taking decisions
Q. What are the three forms in which governmental power expresses itself?
A. Economy, health, and education B. Legislation, administration, and judicial decision C. Law enforcement, judiciary, and military D. Executive, legislative, and judiciary
Answer: B. Legislation, administration, and judicial decision
Q. What is the relationship between citizenship and the Constitution?
A. Relational B. Oppositional C. Negligible D. Inverted
Answer: A. Relational
Q. Does the Constitution of the United States recognize dual citizenship?
A. Yes B. No C. Maybe D. Unknown
Answer: A. Yes
Q. What type of citizenship does the Constitution of India provide?
A. Dual B. Triple C. Single D. None
Answer: C. Single
Q. What term did Professor Alan Ball use to describe attitudes and beliefs that give people a unique identity?
A. Political Philosophy B. Political Psychology C. Political Culture D. Political Economy
Answer: C. Political Culture
Q. What is a ‘Just’ Constitution supposed to promote?
A. Chaos B. Unhappiness C. Injustice D. Peace, prosperity, justice, and happiness
Answer: D. Peace, prosperity, justice, and happiness
Q. Who elected the members of the Constituent Assembly according to the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946?
A. The President B. The Queen C. The Provincial Assemblies D. The Prime Minister
Answer: C. The Provincial Assemblies
Q. How were the representatives of the Princely States chosen for the Constituent Assembly?
A. Elected by the people B. Nominated by the rulers of the states C. Selected by lottery D. Appointed by the President
Answer: B. Nominated by the rulers of the states
Q. What was the original number of members the Constituent Assembly was supposed to have?
A. 200 B. 292 C. 385 D. 500
Answer: C. 385
Q. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Assembly?
A. Jawaharlal Nehru B. Rajendra Prasad C. B.R. Ambedkar D. Vallabhbhai Patel
Answer: C. B.R. Ambedkar
Q. Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly?
A. B.R. Ambedkar B. Maulana Abul Kalam Azad C. Vallabhbhai Patel D. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: D. Rajendra Prasad
Q. Who was the Interim President of the Constituent Assembly?
A. Dr. Rajendra Prasad B. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar C. Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha D. Jawaharlal Nehru
Answer: C. Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha
Q. Who was elected as the permanent President of the Constituent Assembly?
A. Jawaharlal Nehru B. Dr. Sachchidananda Sinha C. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar D. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Answer: D. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
Q. What form of government did the Constituent Assembly decide to adopt?
A. Centralized parliamentary B. Panchayat-based Gandhian C. Monarchial D. Presidential
Answer: A. Centralized parliamentary
Q. Who chaired the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly?
A. Jawaharlal Nehru B. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel C. Dr. Rajendra Prasad D. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: D. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Q. When was the Draft Constitution, prepared by the Drafting Committee, published?
A. 26th January, 1950 B. 26th February, 1948 C. 26th November, 1949 D. 15th August, 1947
Answer: B. 26th February, 1948
Q. When was the Constitution enacted and adopted by the Constituent Assembly?
A. 26th January, 1950 B. 26th February, 1948 C. 26th November, 1949 D. 15th August, 1947
Answer: C. 26th November, 1949
Q. Who represented the Christian community in the Constituent Assembly?
A. Hukum Singh B. Frank Anthony C. John Mathai D. None of the above
Answer: C. John Mathai
Q. Who represented the Sikh community in the Constituent Assembly?
A. Hukum Singh B. Frank Anthony C. John Mathai D. None of the above
Answer: A. Hukum Singh
Q. Who represented the Anglo-Indian community in the Constituent Assembly?
A. Hukum Singh B. Frank Anthony C. John Mathai D. None of the above
Answer: B. Frank Anthony
Q. When did the Indian Constitution come into force?
A. 26th January, 1950 B. 26th February, 1948 C. 26th November, 1949 D. 15th August, 1947
Answer: A. 26th January, 1950
Q. According to the Preamble to the Constitution of India, who are the constitution-makers?
A. British Parliament B. The People of India C. The Constituent Assembly D. The President of India
Answer: B. The People of India
Q. Which report envisaged parliamentary democracy for India similar to the system adopted by the Constitution?
A. The Ambedkar Report B. The Nehru Report C. The Sapru Report D. The Gandhi Report
Answer: B. The Nehru Report
Q. On which date did the Constitution of India, which prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion or race, come into force?
A. January 1, 1950 B. January 15, 1950 C. January 26, 1950 D. January 31, 1950
Answer: C. January 26, 1950
Q. The Fundamental Rights and the Directive Principles were proclaimed under which parts of the Constitution of India?
A. Part I and II B. Part II and III C. Part III and IV D. Part IV and V
Answer: C. Part III and IV
Q. What has been abolished according to the Constitution of India to address social oppression?
A. Poverty B. Discrimination C. Untouchability D. Child Labour
Answer: C. Untouchability
Q. Who among the following leaders fought against social oppression, specifically Untouchability, and influenced the principles enshrined in the Constitution of India?
A. Mahatma Gandhi B. Rabindranath Tagore C. Jawaharlal Nehru D. C. Rajagopalachari
Answer: A. Mahatma Gandhi
Q. Which Charter’s ideals are linked with India’s foreign policy according to the Constitution?
A. The Commonwealth Charter B. The UN Charter C. The ASEAN Charter D. The SAARC Charter
Answer: B. The UN Charter
Q. The Constitution of India laid down the principle of Judicial Review following the example of which country?
A. Great Britain B. Canada C. Australia D. USA
Answer: D. USA
Q. Which constitution inspired the makers of the Constitution of India while framing the Directive Principles?
A. British Constitution B. Irish Constitution C. Canadian Constitution D. American Constitution
Answer: B. Irish Constitution
Q. Who acts as the final Interpreter of the Constitution of India, a principle laid down in our Constitution?
A. The President of India B. The Parliament of India C. The Supreme Court of India D. The Prime Minister of India
Answer: C. The Supreme Court of India
Q. Who moved the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly?
A. B. R. Ambedkar B. Mahatma Gandhi C. Jawaharlal Nehru D. Sardar Patel
Answer: C. Jawaharlal Nehru
Q. What does the Objectives Resolution proclaim India to be?
A. Constitutional Monarchy B. Democratic State C. Independent Sovereign Republic D. Federal State
Answer: C. Independent Sovereign Republic
Q. Which committee examined the Objectives Resolution?
A. Constituent Assembly B. Drafting Committee C. Parliament Committee D. Fundamental Rights Committee
Answer: B. Drafting Committee
Q. When was the Golden Jubilee of the Republic Day of India celebrated?
A. 1990 B. 2000 C. 2010 D. 2020
Answer: B. 2000
Q. What type of Constitution does India have?
A. Unwritten B. Oral C. Written D. Dictated
Answer: C. Written
Q. How many Parts does the Indian Constitution contain?
A. 22 B. 395 C. 12 D. 50
Answer: A. 22
Q. Who is the Head of the Indian Union?
A. Prime Minister B. Chief Justice C. Speaker of Lok Sabha D. President
Answer: D. President
Q. Who is the real executive in the Parliamentary system of Government in India?
A. President B. Vice President C. Council of Ministers D. Chief Justice of India
Answer: C. Council of Ministers
Q. How many years is the President of India elected for?
A. 2 years B. 3 years C. 5 years D. 6 years
Answer: C. 5 years
Q. To whom is the Council of Ministers collectively responsible?
A. President B. Vice President C. House of the People (Lok Sabha) D. Judiciary
Answer: C. House of the People (Lok Sabha)
Q. Which term describes a system of government where powers are divided between a Central Government and States?
A. Unitary State B. Republic C. Centralised Federation D. Confederacy
Answer: C. Centralised Federation
Q. What term describes the Indian Federation due to its vested national government powers?
A. Unitary in spirit B. Federal in spirit C. Democratic in spirit D. Republic in spirit
Answer: A. Unitary in spirit
Q. Who appoints the Governor of an Indian State?
A. The Prime Minister B. The Parliament C. The President D. The Chief Minister
Answer: C. The President
Q. How many types of citizenship does the Indian Constitution recognise?
A. Two B. Three C. One D. Four
Answer: C. One
Q. In the Lok Sabha, how many seats are reserved for the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes respectively, as per the Delimitation (Amendment) Act, 2008?
A. 47 for SCs and 84 for STs B. 84 for SCs and 47 for STs C. 50 for SCs and 50 for STs D. 100 for SCs and 100 for STs
Answer: B. 84 for SCs and 47 for STs
Q. What was added to the Indian Constitution by the Forty-second Amendment Act, 1976?
A. Fundamental Rights B. Directive Principles C. Fundamental Duties D. Reservation of Seats
Answer: C. Fundamental Duties
Q. Which of these is NOT a goal of the Directive Principles of State Policy in the Indian Constitution?
A. Ensure employment B. Ensure education C. Promote industrialisation D. Prevent concentration of wealth
Answer: C. Promote industrialisation
Q. Which body exercises the power of judicial review in India?
A. Parliament B. The President C. Supreme Court D. State Government
Answer: C. Supreme Court
Q. What kind of state does the Indian Constitution aim to establish in terms of religion?
A. Hindu State B. Muslim State C. Secular State D. Christian State
Answer: C. Secular State
60. Which amendment added the Fundamental Duties to the Indian Constitution?
A. The Twenty-sixth Amendment B. The Thirty-second Amendment C. The Forty-second Amendment D. The Fifty-second Amendment
Answer: C. The Forty-second Amendment
