Section A
1. Arrange the following in chronological order:
- Constitutional status was accorded to local government institutions.
- Geeta Rathore was re-elected.
- Geeta Rathore was elected Sarpanch from a reserved seat.
- Tamil Nadu government allotted two hectares of land to government employees.
Options:
a) d, a, c, b
b) a, c, b, d
c) a, d, c, b
d) a, c, b, a
Answer:
a) d, a, c, b
Explanation:
The correct chronological sequence is:
- First, the Tamil Nadu government allotted land (d), which would happen first.
- Then constitutional status was given to local government institutions (a), followed by local government changes.
- After that, Geeta Rathore was elected as Sarpanch from a reserved seat (c), which comes next.
- Finally, Geeta Rathore was re-elected (b).
2. Territorial representation means:
Options:
a) Class representation
b) Minority representation
c) Geographical representation
d) Functional representation
Answer:
c) Geographical representation
Explanation:
Territorial representation refers to the practice of allocating political representatives based on geographical regions (e.g., constituencies or districts). It ensures that different geographic areas are represented in the legislative body.
3. When did India develop a system of parliamentary standing committees?
Options:
a) 1983
b) 1977
c) 1980
d) 1973
Answer:
b) 1977
Explanation:
Parliamentary standing committees were introduced in India in 1977 to improve legislative scrutiny and oversight. They help MPs analyze bills, policies, and the government’s functioning in detail, thus making the legislative process more efficient.
4. How many seats are in Lok Sabha reserved for Scheduled Tribes in India?
Options:
a) 52
b) 27
c) 47
d) 37
Answer:
a) 52
Explanation:
The Lok Sabha (House of the People) in India has 52 seats reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs) to ensure their representation in the legislative process.
5. From which country the provision of the idea of the Rule of Law has borrowed?
Options:
a) British Constitution
b) French Constitution
c) Russian Constitution
d) Canadian Constitution
Answer:
a) British Constitution
Explanation:
The concept of Rule of Law was borrowed from the British Constitution. It is a principle that asserts that everyone, including the government, is subject to the law. It ensures that laws are applied equally and fairly.
6. Assertion (A): Indian secularism allows for principled state intervention in all religions.
Reason (R): Religiously sanctioned caste-hierarchies are not acceptable within Indian secularism.
Options:
a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is true but R is false.
d) A is false but R is true.
Answer:
a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
Explanation:
Indian secularism involves state intervention in religious matters to ensure social justice. The state may intervene in religious practices that violate social equality, such as caste-based discrimination, which is often religiously sanctioned. Therefore, the reason is a valid explanation for the assertion.
7. Who said equality is the preferred value?
Options:
a) Plato
b) Hegel
c) Aristotle
d) Burke
Answer:
c) Aristotle
Explanation:
Aristotle, in his political philosophy, emphasized equality as a fundamental aspect of justice. He believed that justice meant treating equals equally, which has influenced modern notions of equality before the law.
8. The longest tenure as the Prime Minister of India is enjoyed by:
Options:
a) Jawahar Lal Nehru
b) V.P. Singh
c) Charan Singh
d) Lal Bahadur Shastri
Answer:
a) Jawahar Lal Nehru
Explanation:
Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, served the longest tenure, holding office from 1947 to 1964 (17 years).
9. ________ is a group of people bound together by certainties like religion, culture traditions, conventions, and literature.
Options:
a) Province
b) Nation
c) State
d) Race
Answer:
b) Nation
Explanation:
A nation is a community of people who share a common identity based on language, culture, religion, traditions, and history. This collective identity often forms the foundation for statehood and national unity.
10. Assertion (A): The Motilal Nehru committee had demanded a bill of rights as far back as in 1928.
Reason (R): When India became independent and the Constitution was being prepared, the bill of rights was ignored.
Options:
a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
c) A is true but R is false.
d) A is false but R is true.
Answer:
c) A is true but R is false.
Explanation:
The Motilal Nehru Committee indeed demanded a Bill of Rights in 1928. However, this idea was not ignored when India’s Constitution was being drafted. On the contrary, the Indian Constitution contains provisions that closely resemble a Bill of Rights, such as the Fundamental Rights enshrined in Part III of the Constitution.
11. The term justice is derived from the word ‘Jus’ which is a word from:
Options:
a) Greek language
b) French language
c) Latin language
d) English language
Answer:
c) Latin language
Explanation:
The term justice comes from the Latin word ‘jus’, meaning law or right. This term has influenced the development of legal systems in many cultures.
12. The purpose of Feminism is:
Options:
a) To exploit women
b) To discourage women
c) To weaken women
d) To empower women
Answer:
d) To empower women
Explanation:
Feminism is a movement focused on achieving gender equality and empowering women. It seeks to eliminate discrimination and provide equal opportunities for women in all areas of life, including politics, education, and employment.
Section B
1. Is the Indian Constitution rigid or flexible?
Answer: The Indian Constitution is semi-rigid. It is neither fully rigid nor fully flexible. While certain parts of the Constitution can be amended by a simple majority in Parliament (e.g., laws relating to ordinary matters), other provisions, especially those related to federal structure, require a special majority along with the consent of the states. Thus, it has a mix of flexibility and rigidity.
Explanation:
- Flexible provisions can be amended easily through normal legislative procedures.
- Rigid provisions require special procedures for amendment (e.g., changes in the federal balance, fundamental rights).
- This flexibility allows the Constitution to adapt to changing circumstances, but its rigid elements provide stability.
2. Have local bodies been successful in action? Why or why not?
Answer: The success of local bodies in India has been mixed.
Reasons for Success:
- Decentralization of Power: The 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992) helped empower local bodies by giving them more responsibilities and financial resources.
- Local Representation: Local bodies bring governance closer to the people, ensuring better representation and addressing local issues effectively.
Reasons for Limited Success:
- Dependence on State Governments: Local bodies are often dependent on state governments for funds and decision-making, leading to a lack of autonomy.
- Political Interference: Local elections and functioning are sometimes influenced by state politics, leading to inefficiency.
- Lack of Capacity and Resources: Local bodies often face challenges like inadequate funds, lack of training, and poor infrastructure.
- Corruption: In some cases, local bodies face corruption, which hinders their effectiveness.
3. In the absence of a single majority party, how is the Chief Minister appointed?
Answer: In the absence of a single majority party, the Governor of the state appoints the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister is usually appointed from the party or coalition that can prove it has the majority support in the Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha). This majority can be established through a vote of confidence in the Assembly.
Explanation:
- If no party has an outright majority, the Governor invites the leader of the largest party or coalition to form the government.
- The appointed Chief Minister must prove their majority in the legislative assembly within a stipulated time, typically through a floor test.
4. What is the difference between equality and uniformity?
Answer:
- Equality refers to the idea that all individuals or groups should be treated in the same manner, with fairness, justice, and without discrimination, irrespective of their differences. In the Indian context, equality involves providing opportunities for all citizens regardless of their race, religion, caste, or gender.
- Uniformity refers to treating everyone in exactly the same way, without taking into account their different needs or situations.
Explanation:
- Equality seeks fairness, which might involve providing additional help to disadvantaged groups (e.g., affirmative action for SCs, STs, and OBCs).
- Uniformity might disregard such specific needs and apply the same rule or standard to everyone, which might not be fair in cases of inequality or disadvantage.
5. What are the provisions for social justice in the Indian Constitution?
Answer: The Indian Constitution has several provisions for social justice, aimed at promoting equality and ensuring that marginalized and disadvantaged groups are treated fairly. Some of the key provisions include:
- Article 14 – Equality before the law: Guarantees that all citizens are equal before the law and have equal protection of the law.
- Article 15 – Prohibition of discrimination: Prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
- Article 16 – Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment: Provides equality of opportunity in government jobs and prohibits discrimination.
- Article 17 – Abolition of Untouchability: Abolishes untouchability and forbids its practice in any form.
- Article 46 – Promotion of the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and other weaker sections: Aims to protect and promote the rights of these communities.
- Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV): Includes provisions for securing social and economic justice, such as the provision of adequate livelihood, fair wages, and social security.
- Reservations: Provisions for reserving seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in education, government jobs, and legislative bodies.
Explanation: These provisions are designed to ensure that all citizens, especially the marginalized sections of society, have equal opportunities and are not discriminated against based on social and economic factors.
6. Write two demerits of Nationalism.
Answer:
- Exclusionary Nature: Nationalism can lead to the exclusion of minority groups or those who do not share the dominant national identity. It may foster ethnocentrism or xenophobia, where people from other regions or countries are viewed with suspicion or hostility.
- Conflict with Other Nations: Nationalism can sometimes result in conflicts between countries, especially when a nation believes in its superiority or expansion. This can lead to international tensions, wars, or imperialistic behavior, as seen in the history of nationalism in various countries.
Explanation:
- Exclusionary nationalism focuses on a singular national identity, potentially alienating those who do not fit within it, leading to internal strife and discrimination.
- Aggressive nationalism often causes countries to pursue policies that may lead to war or territorial disputes with neighboring nations, undermining international peace and cooperation.
Section C
1. Explain the term political participation in the light of the citizens of a country.
Answer: Political participation refers to the involvement of citizens in the political processes and activities of a country. It includes actions such as voting in elections, attending political meetings, running for office, engaging in protests, or participating in public debates. Political participation ensures that the government remains accountable to its people and that citizens can influence decisions on laws, policies, and leadership. In democratic systems, active political participation is a fundamental right, helping shape governance and public policies.
Explanation: Citizens, through political participation, express their views, influence decision-making, and contribute to the democratic process. Active participation not only strengthens democracy but also promotes inclusivity and social justice. Without citizens’ involvement, governance might not be representative or responsive to the needs of the people.
2. Do you think that judicial activism can lead to a conflict between the Judiciary and the executive? Why?
Answer: Yes, judicial activism can sometimes lead to a conflict between the judiciary and the executive.
Explanation:
- Judicial activism refers to the active role played by the judiciary in interpreting laws, sometimes even creating new legal precedents, to ensure justice in situations where legislative and executive actions may be inadequate or unjust.
- While judicial activism plays a vital role in protecting citizens’ rights, it can create tension with the executive when the judiciary takes decisions that go beyond the traditional role of interpreting laws and encroach on the executive’s authority to formulate and implement policies.
- This conflict can arise when the executive perceives the judiciary’s actions as an overreach into policy-making or governance, undermining its constitutional role.
3. Why are rights necessary for the development of individuals?
Answer: Rights are essential for the development of individuals because they ensure basic freedoms, equality, and opportunities for growth. Rights such as the right to education, the right to express opinions, and the right to access healthcare enable individuals to live a dignified life and pursue personal goals.
Explanation:
- Freedom: Rights protect individual freedom from state oppression, allowing people to make choices and express their ideas.
- Equality: Rights provide equal opportunities for all, ensuring no one is discriminated against based on race, gender, or caste.
- Security: Rights, especially those related to personal liberty, ensure individuals are protected from unfair treatment, exploitation, or harassment.
- Opportunity: Rights to education, employment, and access to resources enable individuals to develop their skills and talents.
4. What are rights and why are they important? What are the bases on which claims to rights can be made?
Answer: Rights are legal, social, or ethical principles that guarantee individuals certain freedoms and protections. They are crucial for ensuring fairness, equality, and justice in society.
Importance:
- Rights are essential for the protection of individual freedoms and dignity.
- They provide a framework for governance, ensuring that power is exercised responsibly.
- They enable individuals to participate in the social, political, and economic systems of a country.
Bases of Claims to Rights:
- Natural law: Rights are inherent and not dependent on laws or legislation (e.g., right to life).
- Constitutional law: Rights granted by the constitution or national legislation (e.g., fundamental rights).
- International law: Rights recognized globally through international treaties and declarations (e.g., human rights).
- Social contract: Rights established through mutual agreements between individuals and the state.
5. Which of the two Houses of Parliament is called the Permanent House and why?
Answer: The Rajya Sabha (Council of States) is called the Permanent House.
Explanation:
- The Rajya Sabha is a permanent body and is not subject to dissolution, unlike the Lok Sabha, which is dissolved every five years.
- Members of the Rajya Sabha are elected for a six-year term, with one-third of the members retiring every two years, ensuring continuity in the House.
- This structure allows for a stable legislative process, with experienced members remaining in office at all times.
6. Describe the amendment procedure of the Constitution.
Answer: The amendment procedure of the Indian Constitution is outlined in Article 368. The Constitution can be amended in the following ways:
- By Parliament: Amendments can be made by Parliament with a simple majority for less important provisions or with a special majority for more significant changes.
- State Consent: Certain amendments, such as those affecting the federal structure (e.g., division of powers between the Union and States), require the approval of half of the states (in addition to Parliament’s approval).
- Special Procedure for Certain Provisions: Some provisions, like the representation of states in Parliament, require both a special majority in Parliament and the consent of a majority of the states.
Explanation:
- The Constitution allows flexibility for changes as needed while ensuring the core principles remain intact.
- The involvement of both central and state legislatures in certain amendments ensures a balance between federalism and unity.
7. Why is Political Science stated as the Science of Power?
Answer: Political Science is referred to as the Science of Power because it deals with the study of power, its distribution, and how it is used in governance and politics.
Explanation:
- Power is central to political theory, as it concerns who holds authority, how it is exercised, and the impact of its use on society.
- Political Science examines how power is acquired, maintained, and challenged, and how it affects decision-making, laws, and policies.
- It also studies political institutions (such as governments, parties, and the judiciary) that are responsible for the distribution and control of power.
8. Read the text carefully and answer the questions:
Machal Lalung’s case study:
- Which of the following rights is addressed in the given Machal Lalung’s case study?
- Answer: a) Right to life and personal liberty
- Explanation: Machal Lalung was kept in judicial custody for an extended period without a proper trial, violating his right to personal liberty.
- Following an examination of pending cases in the State, a team from the ________ played an active role to free Machal Lalung.
- Answer: d) National Human Rights Commission
- Explanation: The National Human Rights Commission intervened and helped secure Lalung’s release after discovering the prolonged injustice.
- Machal’s entire life was wasted because ________.
- Answer: b) Proper trial against him never took place
- Explanation: Despite being fit for trial, Machal was not tried, and his case was ignored for over five decades.
- Machal’s case shows what happens when ________.
- Answer: d) Rights granted by the Constitution are not available in practice
- Explanation: The case highlights how the violation of constitutional rights, particularly the right to a fair trial, can lead to a person suffering for years.
9. Citizenship as full and equal members of a political community involves both rights and obligations. Which rights could citizens expect to enjoy in most democratic states today? What kind of obligations will they have to their state and fellow citizens?
Answer: Rights in democratic states:
- Civil Rights: Right to life, liberty, equality before law, freedom of speech and expression, and privacy.
- Political Rights: Right to vote, run for office, and participate in political processes.
- Economic and Social Rights: Right to education, healthcare, employment, and access to basic services.
- Cultural and Religious Rights: Right to practice religion, express cultural identity, and maintain personal beliefs.
Obligations to the state and fellow citizens:
- Obligation to follow the law: Citizens must respect the legal framework and abide by laws.
- Payment of taxes: Citizens contribute to public services through taxation.
- Social responsibilities: Respect for others’ rights, participation in elections, and contributing to societal development.
- National security and defense: Citizens may have a duty to defend the nation in times of need.