Question-Answer Bank: Indian Constitution

1.What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution, and what are its key
components?
The Preamble is the introductory statement of the Indian Constitution. It outlines the
objectives of the Constitution: Justice (social, economic, and political), Liberty (of thought,
expression, belief, faith, and worship), Equality (of status and opportunity), and Fraternity
(assuring dignity and unity). It declares India a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic
Republic.

2.What is the significance of the Basic Structure Doctrine?

The Basic Structure Doctrine ensures that certain fundamental features of the Constitution,
such as federalism, secularism, and judicial independence, cannot be amended. Introduced in
the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), it protects the essence of the Constitution from
arbitrary changes by Parliament.

3.What are the Fundamental Rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution?
Fundamental Rights include: 1. Right to Equality (Articles 14–18), 2. Right to Freedom
(Articles 19–22), 3. Right against Exploitation (Articles 23–24), 4. Right to Freedom of
Religion (Articles 25–28), 5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29–30), and 6. Right to
Constitutional Remedies (Article 32).

4.What are the Fundamental Duties of Indian citizens?

The Fundamental Duties, added by the 42nd Amendment, include: 1. Respecting the
Constitution and national symbols, 2. Promoting harmony and brotherhood, 3. Protecting the
environment, 4. Developing scientific temper, and 5. Safeguarding public property. These are
not enforceable by law but aim to encourage responsible citizenship.

5.What is the difference between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of

State Policy?
Fundamental Rights are justiciable and enforceable in courts, ensuring individual freedoms
and equality. Directive Principles, listed in Part IV, are non-justiciable guidelines for the state
to promote social and economic welfare, such as ensuring public health and equitable wealth
distribution.

6.What are the emergency provisions in the Indian Constitution?

Emergency provisions empower the central government to respond to crises. These include:
1. National Emergency (Article 352) during war or external aggression, 2. President's Rule
(Article 356) for state failure, and 3. Financial Emergency (Article 360) during economic
instability. During emergencies, certain Fundamental Rights may be suspended.
7.What is the process of electing the President of India?
The President is elected by an electoral college comprising elected members of Parliament
(MPs) and State Legislative Assemblies (MLAs). Voting is done through proportional
representation with a single transferable vote system.

8.What is Judicial Review, and why is it important?

Judicial Review allows courts to examine the constitutionality of legislative acts or executive
decisions. It ensures that no law or action violates the Constitution, maintaining a balance of
power among the legislature, executive, and judiciary.

9.What are the key features of the Parliamentary system in India?

The Parliamentary system in India features: 1. A dual executive (President and Prime
Minister), 2. Collective responsibility of the Cabinet to the Lok Sabha, 3. Bicameral legislature
(Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha), and 4. Regular elections to ensure accountability.

10.What are the 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments?

The 73rd Amendment established the Panchayati Raj system for rural governance, while the
74th Amendment created urban local bodies like Municipal Corporations. Both amendments
promote decentralized governance and grassroots participation in democracy.

11.What is the significance of the 42nd and 44th Constitutional Amendments?

The 42nd Amendment (1976) made significant changes, such as adding 'Socialist' and
'Secular' to the Preamble and strengthening central powers. The 44th Amendment (1978)
safeguarded citizens' rights and limited emergency powers.

12.What is Public Interest Litigation (PIL)?

Public Interest Litigation (PIL) allows individuals or organizations to file cases in court on
behalf of the public, especially for social causes like environmental protection or human
rights. It promotes access to justice for marginalized groups.

13.What is the difference between the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha?
The Lok Sabha is directly elected and holds greater legislative power, particularly regarding
money bills. The Rajya Sabha represents states and is indirectly elected. While both chambers
review legislation, the Rajya Sabha has limited authority over financial matters.

14.What is the procedure for amending the Indian Constitution?

The Constitution can be amended under Article 368 in three ways: 1. Simple Majority for non-
federal provisions, 2. Special Majority for most amendments, and 3. Special Majority with
State Ratification for federal provisions (e.g., changes to the Union-State division).

15.What is the role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India?
The CAG audits the financial accounts of the central and state governments, ensuring public
money is spent as per the law. It also reports on the economy and efficiency of public services
and ensures transparency in government spending.
16.What are the key features of the Panchayati Raj system?
The Panchayati Raj system promotes decentralized governance through three tiers: 1. Village
Panchayats, 2. Block Samitis, and 3. Zila Parishads. It allows local self-governments to handle
public welfare and development tasks at the grassroots level.

17.What is the difference between a constitutional amendment and an ordinary

legislative act?
A constitutional amendment modifies the provisions of the Constitution and requires a
special procedure under Article 368. An ordinary legislative act is passed by a simple majority
in Parliament and does not alter constitutional provisions.

18.What are the qualifications for membership in Parliament?

To be a Member of Parliament (MP), a person must: 1. Be a citizen of India, 2. Be at least 25
years old for the Lok Sabha, 30 for the Rajya Sabha, 3. Be a registered voter, and 4. Meet
additional criteria specified in the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

19.What is the significance of the Right to Constitutional Remedies?

The Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) allows citizens to approach the Supreme
Court to protect their Fundamental Rights. It ensures that no one can be deprived of their
rights without legal recourse, making it a crucial safeguard.

20.What is the process for the impeachment of the President of India?

The President can be impeached for 'violation of the Constitution'. The process involves: 1. A
resolution with a two-thirds majority in either House of Parliament, 2. An investigation of
charges, and 3. A two-thirds majority in the other House to approve it.

21.What are the Fundamental Rights against exploitation?

Articles 23 and 24 of the Constitution prohibit exploitation by banning human trafficking,
forced labor, and child labor in hazardous industries, ensuring dignity and safety for all
individuals.

22.What are the cultural and educational rights guaranteed by the Constitution?
Under Articles 29 and 30, these rights ensure that minorities can preserve their language,
culture, and script, and establish their own educational institutions. It also protects their right
to access education in their own language.

23.What is the significance of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India?

PIL democratizes access to justice, allowing individuals or organizations to approach courts
on behalf of the public to address issues like environmental protection, corruption, or
violation of rights.
24.How is the Rajya Sabha different from the Lok Sabha in legislative powers?
The Rajya Sabha cannot introduce or amend money bills, and its powers are limited regarding
budget matters. It acts as a revising chamber that ensures broader representation of states
and reviews legislation passed by the Lok Sabha.

25. What is the Preamble of the Indian Constitution?

The Preamble to the Indian Constitution is an introductory statement that declares the
fundamental principles and philosophy of the Constitution. It reads:

"We, the People of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign,
Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens: Justice, Liberty,
Equality, and Fraternity..."

26. Mention any two Fundamental Duties of Indian citizens.

To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the
National Anthem.

To protect and improve the natural environment, including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife,
and to have compassion for living creatures.

27. Name any two Fundamental Rights provided by the Indian Constitution.

Right to Equality (Articles 14–18).

Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22).

28. Who is the Head of the Indian Union?

The President of India is the Head of the Indian Union.

29. Name the two houses of the Indian Parliament.

Lok Sabha (House of the People).

Rajya Sabha (Council of States).

30. Define the term "Council of Ministers."

The Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, is a body of ministers responsible for
aiding and advising the President in the administration of the country.

31. What is the role of the Prime Minister in the Indian Government?
The Prime Minister is the head of government in India. They lead the executive branch,
preside over the Council of Ministers, and play a central role in policymaking, administration,
and representing India nationally and internationally.

32. Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee?

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the Drafting Committee.

33. UCC stands for?

UCC stands for Uniform Civil Code.

34. Article 370 talks about?

Article 370 provided special autonomy to the region of Jammu and Kashmir. It was effectively
abrogated in August 2019.

35. How does the Preamble reflect the ideals of the Indian Constitution?

The Preamble reflects the core ideals of the Indian Constitution:

Sovereign: India is independent in its internal and external affairs.

Socialist: Promotes social and economic equality.

Secular: Ensures freedom of religion and equal respect for all religions.

Democratic: Emphasizes governance by elected representatives.

Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity: The principles aim to ensure fairness, freedom,
equality, and unity among citizens.

36. Briefly describe the structure of the Indian Union.

The Indian Union has a federal structure with three levels:

Union Government (Central Government): Administers the entire nation.

State Governments: Administers specific states.

Local Governments: Includes Panchayati Raj institutions and municipal bodies.

37. What is the role of the President?

The President of India serves as the ceremonial head of state and exercises powers on the
advice of the Council of Ministers. Key roles include:

Appointing the Prime Minister and other officials.

Commanding the armed forces.

Summoning and dissolving Parliament sessions.

Giving assent to bills to become laws.

38. Explain the importance of the Right to Freedom.

The Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22) ensures:

Freedom of speech and expression.

Freedom to assemble, form associations, and move freely across India.

Protection against arbitrary arrest.

It is vital for democracy, fostering individual liberty and dignity.

39. Explain the importance of the Right to Equality.

The Right to Equality (Articles 14–18) ensures:

Equality before the law.

Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.

Abolition of untouchability.

This right promotes social justice and inclusivity.

40. Explain the relationship between the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.

The Prime Minister leads the Council of Ministers and coordinates its functioning. They
allocate portfolios, chair meetings, and serve as a link between the President and the Council.
The Council works collectively under the Prime Minister's guidance.
41. What are the Powers of the Governor?

Executive Powers: Appointing the Chief Minister and other ministers.

Legislative Powers: Summoning and dissolving state legislature sessions, and giving assent
to bills.

Judicial Powers: Granting pardons in certain cases.

Discretionary Powers: Acting independently in certain situations, like in a hung assembly.