GS-II Previous Questions & Answers – Page 4
UPSC Mains GS-II
Judiciary & Constitutional Bodies
Q31. Examine the role of the judiciary as the guardian of the Constitution.
Answer:
The judiciary acts as the guardian of the Constitution by ensuring supremacy of the Constitution and protecting Fundamental Rights. Through judicial review, it can invalidate laws and executive actions that violate constitutional provisions.
By interpreting the Constitution dynamically, the judiciary preserves democratic values and checks misuse of power by other organs of the State.
Prelims value: Judicial review is a basic feature of the Constitution.
Q32. Discuss the significance of judicial review in Indian democracy.
Answer:
Judicial review empowers courts to examine the constitutionality of laws and executive actions. It prevents arbitrary governance and ensures accountability of the legislature and executive.
By protecting Fundamental Rights and maintaining constitutional balance, judicial review strengthens democratic governance.
Q33. “Judicial activism has both strengthened and strained democracy.” Examine.
Answer:
Judicial activism has expanded rights, improved governance, and addressed executive inaction through mechanisms like Public Interest Litigation.
However, excessive intervention may blur separation of powers and create institutional tensions. A balance between activism and restraint is essential for democratic stability.
Q34. Analyse the concept of judicial independence in India.
Answer:
Judicial independence ensures impartial adjudication free from political pressure. Security of tenure, fixed salaries, and separation from executive control safeguard this independence.
It is vital for upholding rule of law and constitutional governance.
Q35. Evaluate the collegium system for judicial appointments.
Answer:
The collegium system aims to protect judicial independence by insulating appointments from executive interference.
However, concerns regarding transparency and accountability persist, leading to demands for reform while preserving independence.
Prelims value: Collegium is not mentioned in the Constitution.
Q36. Discuss the role of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in governance.
Answer:
PIL has expanded access to justice for marginalised sections by relaxing procedural requirements. It has addressed issues like environmental protection, human rights and corruption.
However, misuse of PILs for publicity highlights the need for judicial caution.
Q37. Examine the constitutional position of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG).
Answer:
The CAG audits government expenditure and ensures financial accountability of the executive. It reports to Parliament, strengthening legislative oversight.
CAG plays a crucial role in promoting transparency and fiscal discipline.
Prelims value: CAG is an independent constitutional authority.
Q38. Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in strengthening democracy.
Answer:
The Election Commission ensures free and fair elections by supervising the electoral process. Its independence safeguards democratic legitimacy.
Challenges like money power and electoral reforms remain areas of concern.
Q39. Evaluate the importance of constitutional bodies in maintaining democratic governance.
Answer:
Constitutional bodies like the CAG, ECI and UPSC ensure accountability, neutrality and efficiency in governance. They act as watchdogs over executive functioning.
Their autonomy is essential for democratic stability.
Q40. “Institutional integrity is as important as institutional independence.” Discuss.
Answer:
While independence protects institutions from external interference, integrity ensures ethical functioning. Without integrity, independence alone cannot prevent misuse of authority.
Thus, both are essential for effective constitutional governance.
— Shaktimatha 369 Learning
📘 UPSC GS–II MASTER LIBRARY
Polity • Governance • Social Justice • International Relations
Prelims | Mains | Interview
📚 SECTION 1: GS–II FOUNDATION & CORE BUILDING
- GS–II Building: Polity, Governance & IR Foundation
- Indian Constitution: Philosophy & Salient Features
- Fundamental Rights, DPSP & Duties
- Parliament, Executive & Judiciary
- GS–II Building – Page 5
🏛️ SECTION 2: GOVERNANCE & SOCIAL JUSTICE
🌍 SECTION 3: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
🧠 SECTION 4: CASE STUDIES & FINAL REVISION
📝 SECTION 5: GS–II PREVIOUS YEARS QUESTIONS (ANSWERED)
- PYQs – Constitution
- PYQs – FRs & DPSPs
- PYQs – Parliament & Executive
- PYQs – Judiciary & Constitutional Bodies
- PYQs – Federalism & Centre–State
- PYQs – Governance
- PYQs – Social Justice & Welfare
- PYQs – International Relations
- PYQs – Contemporary Issues
- High Probability Final Questions
📦 SECTION 6: MASTER HUBS & CONNECT
- 📌 Learning Resource Hub
- 📲 WhatsApp UPSC Channel
- UPSC Weekly Constitution CA Library
- UPSC Geography Master Library
- UPPSC GS Paper–1 Library
“GS–II is not about memorising articles, but mastering governance with constitutional wisdom.”
— Shaktimatha 369 Learning
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