Class 8 Social Science (Social and Political Life) Chapter 1 The Indian Constitution

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules, Cricket

b) It establishes boundaries that define the game

[Solution Description] The rule that a batsman is declared out if they hit the ball twice intentionally is a constitutive rule of cricket. Constitutive rules define the essential nature of the game and help differentiate cricket from other sports by setting specific behaviors that are not allowed.

Key Concept: Role of Constitution

c) It guarantees fundamental rights like the Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Constitution plays a crucial role in protecting citizens’ rights by providing a legal framework that guarantees fundamental rights such as the Right to Equality, Freedom, and Protection from Discrimination. It ensures that no citizen is discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth. Additionally, the Constitution provides safeguards against the misuse of authority by political leaders, ensuring that citizens’ freedoms are protected.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules, Indian Constitution

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion compares the Indian Constitution to the constitutive rules of a game like football, emphasizing that both define the fundamental principles and structure of their respective systems. This is accurate because the Constitution lays down the basic framework for governance, rights, and duties in India, just as the rules of football define how the game is played. The reason states that just as breaking the rules of football changes the nature of the game, amending the Indian Constitution can alter the fundamental nature of the country. This is also true, as significant amendments to the Constitution can lead to changes in the political, social, or legal fabric of the nation. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion by highlighting the parallel between the two systems in terms of the impact of altering foundational rules. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Definition of a Constitution

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the Indian Constitution defines the fundamental nature of Indian society, which is true as it outlines the ideals and principles that form the basis of the country. The reason explains that a Constitution serves as a set of rules and principles agreed upon for governance, which is also true. However, the reason does not directly explain why the Indian Constitution specifically lays down the fundamental nature of Indian society. Therefore, both statements are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules, Indian Constitution

c) It defines the fundamental principles and rules for governance

[Solution Description]

Constitutive rules are fundamental principles that define the nature of an entity, such as a game or a society. In the case of a democratic society, a Constitution serves as the foundational document that outlines the rules and principles governing the nation. It ensures the protection of citizens’ rights, establishes the structure of governance, and provides a framework for resolving conflicts. Without a Constitution, there would be no consensus on the rules, leading to chaos and inequality. Therefore, a Constitution is essential for maintaining order, justice, and democracy in a society.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly

c) A group of around 300 members of the Constituent Assembly

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution was drafted by a group of around 300 members who formed the Constituent Assembly. This assembly met periodically between December 1946 and November 1949 to write India’s Constitution. Their efforts were guided by the ideals of democracy and equality, shaped by the freedom struggle against British rule.

Key Concept: Constitution, Written Document

c) It provides a clear and accessible record of fundamental rules

[Solution Description] A Constitution being a written document is significant because it provides a clear and accessible record of the fundamental rules and principles governing a society. It ensures transparency, accountability, and consistency in the application of these rules. A written Constitution also serves as a reference point for resolving disputes and interpreting laws. Additionally, it helps in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of individuals by clearly outlining them in a formal document.

Key Concept: Constitution, Rule of Law

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that a constitution is essential for ensuring the rule of law and protecting individual rights. This is true because a constitution provides the legal framework that defines the powers of the government and safeguards citizens’ rights. The reason explains what the rule of law entails: it ensures accountability, equality before the law, and independent adjudication. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains why a constitution is essential for maintaining the rule of law.

Key Concept: Purpose of a Constitution

b) To protect citizens’ rights and freedoms

[Solution Description]

A Constitution lays out the fundamental ideals and principles that define the nature of the society and the type of governance. It ensures that certain rights and freedoms are protected and provides a framework for the government to function while safeguarding against decisions that might harm the larger interests of the country.

Key Concept: Importance of Fundamental Duties

c) To encourage active participation and responsibility

[Solution Description]

Fundamental Duties are important for citizens in a democracy because they ensure that citizens actively participate in the democratic process and contribute to the well-being of society. These duties help maintain the balance between rights and responsibilities, fostering a sense of discipline and commitment towards the nation.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly, Consensus Building

b) To draft a Constitution reflecting democratic values

[Solution Description]

The primary objective of the Constituent Assembly of India was to draft a Constitution that would serve as the supreme law of the country. The Assembly aimed to create a democratic framework that would ensure equality, justice, and freedom for all citizens. It involved detailed discussions and debates on various provisions, with an emphasis on reaching consensus among the diverse members. This process ensured that the Constitution reflected the aspirations and values of the people, laying the foundation for a stable and inclusive democracy.

Key Concept: Federalism, Limits of Government Power

b) By granting states authority directly from the Constitution

[Solution Description]

Under federalism, the Indian Constitution ensures that state governments are not merely agents of the central government by granting them authority directly from the Constitution. This allows states to make laws on subjects listed in the State List and Concurrent List, and they derive their financial resources from both the central government and their own sources. This division of powers ensures that states have a significant degree of autonomy and are not entirely dependent on the central government.

Key Concept: Constitution, Decision-Making

c) By providing a framework that safeguards against decisions contrary to societal interests

[Solution Description]

The Constitution protects against decisions that may arise from strong emotions or short-term interests but could harm long-term societal principles. It prevents the easy overthrow of provisions that guarantee citizen rights and freedoms, ensuring stability and protection against hastily made decisions.

Key Concept: Misuse of Authority

c) By providing safeguards against misuse of power

By allowing unlimited power to leaders

Key Concept: Nepal’s Constitution

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The Assertion is true because the people of Nepal indeed adopted a new Constitution in 2015 to transition from a monarchy to a democratic political system. The Reason is also true because the previous Constitution of Nepal vested executive power in the King, which contradicted democratic principles. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains the Assertion as the need for a new Constitution arose directly from the desire to eliminate the monarchical structure and establish democracy. Hence, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: Purpose of a Constitution

c) To define the nature of the political system

[Solution Description]

One of the key purposes of a Constitution in a democratic country is to define the nature of the country’s political system. It lays out important guidelines that govern decision-making within the society. Therefore, the correct answer is: To define the nature of the political system.

Key Concept: Need for a new Constitution

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the people of Nepal adopted a new Constitution in 2015 to establish democratic values. This is true because, after the people’s movement in 2006, Nepal transitioned from a monarchy to a democracy, and the 2015 Constitution reflects these democratic principles. The reason given is that the previous Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 1990, reflected the monarchical system and did not align with the democratic ideals the people fought for. This is also true as the 1990 Constitution vested final authority in the King, which contradicted the democratic aspirations of the Nepalese people. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains why a new Constitution was necessary: to replace the monarchical framework with a democratic one. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Signing of the Constitution

c) 24 January 1950

[Solution Description]

The members of the Constituent Assembly signed the final copy of the Indian Constitution on 24 January 1950.

Key Concept: Historical Context

b) Nepal became a democracy by abolishing the monarchy.

[Solution Description]

In 2008, Nepal became a democracy after abolishing the monarchy. This marked a significant shift from a monarchical system to a democratic political system.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly

a) December 1946

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly was convened in December 1946. This assembly was tasked with drafting the Constitution for independent India.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly, Diversity, Socio-economic reforms

c) Eradicating poverty through socio-economic reforms

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly was deeply concerned about the socio-economic conditions of the people, especially poverty. The members aimed to eradicate poverty through socio-economic reforms, which is reflected in the final document of the Constitution.

Key Concept: Socio-Economic Reforms, Constitutional Vision

b) Eradicating poverty through socio-economic reforms

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly envisioned the Constitution as a tool for socio-economic reforms to eradicate poverty and improve the living conditions of the masses. This vision is reflected in the Directive Principles of State Policy and other provisions.

Key Concept: Drafting of the Constitution

b) December 1946

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly was convened in December 1946 to draft the Indian Constitution, marking the beginning of the formal process of creating India’s foundational document.

Key Concept: Role of the Constituent Assembly

b) To draft a constitution for independent India

[Solution Description]

The primary objective of the Constituent Assembly was to draft a constitution for independent India that would address the diverse needs of its population, preserve national unity, and promote socio-economic reforms. The Assembly aimed to create a visionary document that reflected respect for diversity while ensuring the country’s progress and stability.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly Duration

c) 1949

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly of India began its work in 1946 and completed the drafting of the Indian Constitution in 1949. The Constitution was adopted on 26th November 1949 and came into effect on 26th January 1950.

Key Concept: Discussions and debates to ensure fair representation

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly of India was formed in 1946 with around 300 members representing various regions, communities, and political ideologies. This diversity was essential to ensure that the Constitution would reflect the aspirations and needs of all sections of Indian society. The assertion is true because the Assembly’s composition was deliberately designed to include diverse voices. The reason is also true as the inclusion of diverse members helped in creating a Constitution that addressed the concerns of different groups. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the goal of diverse representation was to ensure the Constitution’s fairness and inclusivity.

Key Concept: Federalism, Social Justice

c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.

[Solution Description]

The Assertion is true because the Indian Constitution indeed includes provisions like reservations and affirmative action to ensure social justice for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. However, the Reason is false because federalism refers to the division of powers between the central and state governments, not specifically to addressing the needs of marginalized communities. While decentralization can help, it is not the primary mechanism for ensuring social justice in the Constitution. Thus, the Assertion is true, but the Reason is false.

Key Concept: Key Personalities

d) Dr Rajendra Prasad

[Solution Description]

Dr Rajendra Prasad presided over the Constituent Assembly as its President during the final session on 24 January 1950 when the Constitution was signed.

Key Concept: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Indian Constitution

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution due to his significant role in its drafting. This is true, as Dr. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee and was instrumental in shaping the Constitution. The reason provided is that Dr. Ambedkar’s leadership ensured the inclusion of safeguards for marginalized communities, especially the Scheduled Castes. This is also true, as he advocated for their rights and protections within the Constitution. However, while both statements are true, the reason does not fully explain why he is called the Father of the Indian Constitution. His title is more broadly attributed to his overall contribution to the Constitution’s creation, not just the specific safeguards for marginalized groups.

Key Concept: Constitutional Principles, Leadership

b) Secularism and democracy

[Solution Description] Jawaharlal Nehru’s speeches in the Constituent Assembly emphasized the importance of secularism and democracy. He advocated for a Constitution that would ensure equal rights for all citizens, regardless of religion, caste, or gender. His vision laid the foundation for the secular and democratic framework of the Indian Constitution.

Key Concept: Patel’s Legacy in the Indian Constitution

b) The establishment of a federal system with strong central authority

[Solution Description]

One of Sardar Patel’s major contributions was his insistence on a strong, unified India, which is reflected in the constitutional provisions that promote national integrity and prevent secessionist tendencies. His work ensured that the constitution supported a united nation despite its diversity.

Key Concept: Unity in Constituent Assembly

c) Extraordinary sense of unity

[Solution Description]

The working environment of the Constituent Assembly was marked by an extraordinary sense of unity. Members worked together with a shared goal of creating a constitution that would serve the diverse needs of the nation.

Key Concept: Dr. Rajendra Prasad: President of the Constituent Assembly

b) Presiding over the Assembly’s meetings

[Solution Description]

As the President of the Constituent Assembly, Dr. Rajendra Prasad was responsible for presiding over the meetings, facilitating discussions, and ensuring that the constitution was drafted through consensus and collaboration among the members.

Key Concept: Time Period of Constituent Assembly

b) 1946-1949

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly drafted the Indian Constitution between December 1946 and November 1949.

Key Concept: Indian Constitution: Key Features

d) Assertion is false, but Reason is true.

[Solution Description] The drafting of the Indian Constitution was not done by a single person but by a group of around 300 members of the Constituent Assembly who met periodically for three years to write it. This process involved detailed discussions and consensus-building. Therefore, the Assertion is false as the Constitution was not drafted by one person. However, the Reason is true because the drafting did involve discussions and consensus among the members.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

b) To protect citizens against misuse of State power

[Solution Description]

The Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution are designed to protect citizens from the arbitrary use of State power. These rights ensure that every individual can claim their rights and that these rights are binding on all authorities with the power to make laws. They also safeguard minority communities against the majority.

Key Concept: Federalism

c) Presence of multiple levels of government with defined jurisdictions

[Solution Description]

Federalism in India involves the existence of multiple levels of government, including the central government, state governments, and Panchayati Raj institutions. Each level of government has its own jurisdiction and authority, as defined by the Constitution. The states are not merely agents of the central government but derive their authority directly from the Constitution.

Key Concept: Federalism

c) Both central and state governments can make laws on specific issues

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution contains lists that detail the issues on which each tier of government (central and state) can make laws. This ensures a clear division of legislative powers between the central and state governments.

Key Concept: Central Government

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The Central Government, as per the Indian Constitution, is indeed responsible for the formulation of national policies. This includes areas such as defense, foreign affairs, and economic planning. Additionally, the Central Government possesses the authority to make decisions on matters of national importance, which aligns with its role in handling national affairs. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Central Government Functions

b) Implementing foreign policy

[Solution Description]

The Central Government in India is responsible for handling national affairs, including defense, foreign policy, and issues related to the entire country. Among the options provided, implementing foreign policy directly relates to the Central Government’s role.

Key Concept: Federalism and State Autonomy

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that states in India have the autonomy to make decisions on regional issues, which is true because the Constitution of India provides for a federal structure where states have their own legislative and executive powers. The reason given is that the Constitution specifies the powers and responsibilities of state governments, which is also true. Additionally, the reason correctly explains the assertion because it is the Constitution that grants states their autonomy by detailing their powers and responsibilities. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Federalism

c) States share power with the central government but derive their authority from the Constitution.

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system where both the central and state governments derive their authority from the Constitution. While states have autonomy in certain areas, they must follow central laws on national issues. This ensures a balance of power and cooperation between the two levels of government.

Key Concept: State vs Government

b) State includes more than just the government

[Solution Description]

In the context of the Indian Constitution, the term ‘State’ refers to a political institution representing a sovereign people occupying a definite territory. It includes more than just the government and cannot be used interchangeably with it. The government, on the other hand, is responsible for administering and enforcing laws and can change with elections.

Key Concept: Parliamentary Form of Government

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Constitution of India guarantees universal adult suffrage for all citizens. This is true as the Constitution ensures that every citizen, regardless of their social background, has the right to vote. The reason states that universal adult suffrage ensures that every citizen can vote and contest in elections. This is also true because universal adult suffrage allows all eligible citizens to participate in the electoral process, both as voters and candidates. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains the assertion, as the ability to vote and contest in elections is a direct consequence of universal adult suffrage.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly

c) Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

[Solution Description]

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a prominent member of the Constituent Assembly of India. He played a significant role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution and is often referred to as the “Iron Man of India.”

Key Concept: Universal Adult Franchise

b) 18 years

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution grants the right to vote to all citizens who are 18 years of age or older. This principle of universal adult franchise ensures that every eligible citizen can participate in the democratic process.

Key Concept: Participatory Democracy, Local Governance, Decentralization

c) To promote participatory democracy and inclusive development.

[Solution Description] The primary objective of decentralizing power to local governments is to promote participatory democracy. By involving local communities in decision-making processes, governance becomes more responsive to the specific needs and concerns of the people. This decentralization ensures that decisions affecting local areas are made at the grassroots level, fostering inclusive development and democratic principles.

Key Concept: Local Governance

c) Facilitating urban local self-governance

[Solution Description]

The main purpose of Municipalities in India is to facilitate urban local self-governance. They are responsible for providing essential services such as water supply, sewage, urban planning, and public health in urban areas.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules, Federalism

c) It divides powers between central and state governments, promoting local participation.

[Solution Description]

Federalism ensures equal participation in democracy by dividing powers between the central and state governments. This division allows for local governance, enabling people to participate in decision-making processes that directly affect their regions. The Constitution specifies the subjects on which each tier of government can make laws, ensuring autonomy while maintaining national unity. This structure prevents the concentration of power and promotes inclusivity, allowing diverse groups to have a say in governance.

Key Concept: Federalism

d) Only central government

[Solution Description]

In India, the central government has the authority to make laws on subjects of national concern. State governments, while autonomous in certain areas, must follow central laws on issues of national importance.

Key Concept: Universal Adult Suffrage, Right to Equality

c) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Equality under Fundamental Rights, which ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, and place of birth. Denying someone the right to contest in elections based on caste directly violates this provision.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Representation

b) To ensure that they act in the best interest of the public

[Solution Description]

In a democracy, elected representatives are accountable to the people to ensure that they act in the best interest of the public and do not misuse their authority. This accountability is crucial for maintaining trust in democratic institutions and ensuring that the government serves the needs of its citizens.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

b) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Right to Equality, one of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth.

Key Concept: Universal Adult Suffrage

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Indian Constitution guarantees universal adult suffrage to all citizens. This is true as the Constitution of India ensures that every citizen has the right to vote, regardless of their social, economic, or educational status. The reason states that universal adult suffrage ensures that every citizen, irrespective of social background, can contest in elections. This is also true because the Constitution allows any eligible citizen to stand for elections. However, the reason is not a correct explanation of the assertion. The assertion is about the right to vote, while the reason is about the right to contest elections. Therefore, both are true, but the reason does not explain the assertion.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights – Right to Equality

b) Refusing employment to an individual due to their caste

[Solution Description] The Right to Equality ensures that no citizen is discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth. Any action or policy that discriminates based on these factors violates this fundamental right.

Key Concept: Parliamentary Form of Government

d) The people of India.

[Solution Description]

In the Indian parliamentary system, the representatives are elected by the people of India through universal adult suffrage, ensuring that every citizen has a direct role in choosing their leaders.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers, Judicial Review

b) The judiciary declaring a law passed by the legislature as unconstitutional

[Solution Description]

The judiciary acts as a check on both the legislature and the executive by ensuring that their actions are in line with the Constitution. Judicial review allows the judiciary to declare any law or executive action unconstitutional if it violates the provisions of the Constitution.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly Concerns

c) To prevent the executive from becoming too powerful and ignore its responsibilities

[Solution Description] The Constituent Assembly included provisions to control the executive branch to prevent it from becoming too powerful and ignoring its responsibilities to the legislature. These provisions ensure that the executive remains accountable and cannot misuse its powers, thus maintaining a balance of power among the three organs of government.

Key Concept: Parliamentary Form of Government, Universal Adult Suffrage

c) Representatives are elected directly by the people

[Solution Description] Universal adult suffrage allows every citizen above the age of 18 to vote, regardless of caste, class, or gender. This ensures that the representatives in the Lok Sabha are elected directly by the people, making them accountable to the electorate and reflecting the diverse population of the country.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers, Accountability in Parliament

d) The principle of accountability to the electorate

[Solution Description]

The separation of powers ensures that the legislature is accountable to the people. If a member of the Lok Sabha is found guilty of misuse of public funds, they can be removed from office through legal or electoral processes, ensuring accountability and preventing misuse of power.

Key Concept: Council of Ministers

d) The Prime Minister

[Solution Description] In the Indian executive branch, the Council of Ministers is responsible for aiding and advising the President in the exercise of his functions. The Council of Ministers is headed by the Prime Minister, who is the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha (the lower house of Parliament). The Prime Minister plays a crucial role in the governance of the country, ensuring that the administration runs smoothly and that laws are implemented effectively. Therefore, the correct answer is the Prime Minister.

Key Concept: Checks and Balances

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Indian Constitution prevents any single organ of government from becoming too powerful by separating powers among the legislature, executive, and judiciary. This is true because the Constitution explicitly assigns different roles and responsibilities to these three organs to avoid concentration of power. The reason explains that this separation allows each organ to act as a check on the others, ensuring a balance of power. This is also true and directly explains why the separation of powers is essential in preventing misuse of authority. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Checks and Balances

c) Right to Constitutional Remedies

[Solution Description]

The Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution provide safeguards against the misuse of authority by the government. Among these rights, the Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32) is particularly significant as it allows citizens to approach the judiciary if their Fundamental Rights are violated. This right acts as a check on the powers of the executive and legislature by enabling citizens to seek legal recourse against any unconstitutional actions. Therefore, the Right to Constitutional Remedies directly empowers citizens to challenge misuse of authority.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

c) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution ensures that power is not misused by political leaders. It provides Fundamental Rights to citizens, one of which is the Right to Equality. This right ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth. Therefore, the correct answer is the Right to Equality.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights, Right to Equality

c) Cultural and Educational Rights

[Solution Description] Cultural and Educational Rights ensure that all minorities, whether religious or linguistic, can establish and administer educational institutions to preserve their culture and language. Denying permission to open a school in their native language violates this right. Additionally, the Right to Equality ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against based on their language, which is also being violated here.

Key Concept: Right to Equality

c) Untouchability

[Solution Description]

The Right to Equality in the Indian Constitution includes the abolition of the practice of untouchability. This ensures equality among all citizens and prevents discrimination based on caste.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Right to Equality

b) A government employee is denied a promotion because they are from a particular caste.

[Solution Description]

The principle of equal treatment before the law ensures that all citizens are treated equally under the law, regardless of their religion, caste, or sex. In this context, if a government employee is denied a promotion solely based on their caste, it violates the Right to Equality as guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

c) To protect citizens against the misuse of State power.

[Solution Description] The Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution are designed to protect citizens against the arbitrary and absolute exercise of power by the State. They ensure that every citizen can claim these rights and that they are binding upon every authority with the power to make laws. The primary purpose is to safeguard individual freedoms and prevent misuse of State power.

Key Concept: Right to Equality

d) Denial of entry to public places based on caste.

[Solution Description]

The abolition of untouchability ensures that no individual is denied access to public places, including playgrounds, hotels, and shops, and prohibits discrimination in matters of employment. However, there are exceptions in specific cases, such as reservations in educational institutions and government jobs, which are aimed at promoting social justice and equality.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

b) Restricting movement during a curfew

[Solution Description] The Right to Freedom allows individuals to move freely and reside in any part of the country. Arresting someone without a valid reason violates this right, while arresting someone after due legal process does not. Opening a business without licenses violates the right to practise any profession or business legally, and banning a book without justification violates the right to freedom of speech and expression.

Key Concept: Indian Constitution

c) Part III

[Solution Description]

The right to freedom of speech and expression is guaranteed under the Right to Freedom in Part III of the Indian Constitution.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

a) Part III

[Solution Description]

The right to assemble peacefully without arms is guaranteed under the Right to Freedom in the Indian Constitution. This is part of the fundamental rights provided to citizens.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to move freely within the country, which is true as per Article 19(1)(d) of the Constitution. The reason states that this right is part of the Fundamental Rights provided by the Constitution to protect citizens against the arbitrary exercise of State power, which is also true and correctly explains the assertion. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Right to choose profession or occupation

b) Article 19(1)(g)

[Solution Description] Article 19(1)(g) of the Indian Constitution guarantees the right to practise any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business. This right is part of the Fundamental Rights enshrined in the Constitution.

Key Concept: Right against Exploitation

b) Human trafficking and forced labour

[Solution Description]

The Right against Exploitation in the Indian Constitution primarily prohibits human trafficking, forced labour, and the employment of children under 14 years of age in factories, mines, or any hazardous occupations.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Right against Exploitation

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that Article 23 of the Indian Constitution prohibits human trafficking and forced labor to protect individuals from exploitation. This is true as Article 23 explicitly bans these practices to ensure the dignity and freedom of individuals. The reason claims that Article 23 is part of the Fundamental Rights, which aim to protect citizens from the misuse of State power. This is also true, as Fundamental Rights, including Article 23, are designed to prevent arbitrary actions by the State and others. The reason correctly explains why the assertion is valid, as Article 23’s prohibition of human trafficking and forced labor is a direct measure to safeguard individuals from exploitation, aligning with the purpose of Fundamental Rights.

Key Concept: Right against Exploitation, Child Labor

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that employing a 13-year-old child in a carpet manufacturing factory violates the right against exploitation. This is correct because Article 24 of the Indian Constitution explicitly prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in hazardous industries, including factories.

The reason given is that the Constitution prohibits the employment of children below 14 years to protect them from exploitation and ensure their education. This is also true as Article 21A guarantees the right to free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14 years, and Article 24 complements this by preventing their employment in harmful environments.

The reason correctly explains the assertion because the prohibition of child labor under 14 years directly aims to prevent their exploitation and facilitate their education, aligning with the constitutional provisions.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom of Religion

a) Forcing someone to follow a particular religion

[Solution Description] The Right to Freedom of Religion guarantees every citizen the freedom to practise, profess, and propagate their religion. However, it does not include the right to convert others forcefully or disrupt public order. Thus, forcing someone to follow a particular religion is not protected under this right.

Key Concept: Inter-religious Domination

b) To prevent the domination of one religion over another.

[Solution Description] One of the main reasons for the separation of Religion and the State in Indian secularism is to prevent inter-religious domination. This means avoiding the dominance of one religion over others, ensuring equality and freedom among different religious groups.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights

c) Cultural and Educational Rights

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution provides Cultural and Educational Rights under Article 29 and 30, allowing minorities, whether religious or linguistic, to set up their own educational institutions to preserve and develop their culture.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Cultural and Educational Rights

c) Every citizen must be in a position to claim those rights and these rights must be binding upon every authority that has got the power to make laws

[Solution Description]

The dual objective of Fundamental Rights, as articulated by Dr. Ambedkar, is to ensure that every citizen can claim these rights and that these rights are binding upon every authority with the power to make laws. This ensures protection against arbitrary state actions and safeguards individual and minority rights.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights

c) To preserve their cultural and linguistic identity

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution aims to protect the cultural and linguistic identity of minorities by allowing them to establish and manage their own educational institutions. This helps in preserving their heritage and promoting diversity.

Key Concept: Right to Constitutional Remedies

c) Supreme Court

[Solution Description] Article 32 grants the Supreme Court the power to issue writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights. While High Courts can also issue writs under Article 226, the specific authority under Article 32 lies with the Supreme Court. Thus, the correct answer is the Supreme Court.

Key Concept: Right to Constitutional Remedies

b) It ensures that citizens can seek justice from the judiciary if their rights are violated

[Solution Description] The Right to Constitutional Remedies is significant because it ensures that citizens can seek justice from the judiciary if their Fundamental Rights are violated. This right acts as a safeguard against the misuse of authority by the State or other individuals, ensuring the protection of individual freedoms.

Key Concept: Directive Principles of State Policy

c) To promote social and economic reforms

[Solution Description] The Directive Principles of State Policy are designed to guide the government in making laws and policies that aim to reduce poverty and ensure social and economic reforms. They serve as a framework for achieving a just and equitable society.

Key Concept: Directive Principles of State Policy

b) Enforcing fundamental rights through judicial intervention

[Solution Description]

The Directive Principles of State Policy include promoting the welfare of the people, minimizing inequalities, ensuring equal pay for equal work, and protecting the health and strength of workers. However, enforcing fundamental rights through judicial intervention is not an objective of the Directive Principles, as they are not enforceable by the courts.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Right against Exploitation

c) Right against Exploitation

[Solution Description]

The situation involves a 13-year-old child working in a factory, which directly violates the Right against Exploitation under the Fundamental Rights in the Indian Constitution. According to Article 24 of the Constitution, no child below the age of 14 years shall be employed to work in any factory or mine or engaged in any other hazardous employment. Therefore, employing a 13-year-old in a carpet factory constitutes a violation of this right.

Key Concept: Secularism

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution indeed promotes secularism, which ensures equality between religions and prevents any one religion from dominating others. This is achieved by maintaining a separation between religion and the state. Additionally, Indian secularism allows for state intervention in religious matters to reform practices that promote inequality, such as untouchability or child marriage. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains why the Indian Constitution promotes secularism.

Key Concept: Indian Constitution, Secularism, Fundamental Rights

c) By providing fundamental rights to protect religious freedom

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution plays a crucial role in ensuring secularism by maintaining a separation between religion and the state. It protects the religious freedom of individuals by guaranteeing fundamental rights, such as the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate any religion. Additionally, the Constitution allows for state intervention in religious matters to reform discriminatory practices and promote equality.

Key Concept: Secularism, Constitutional Amendments

c) The amendment would be challenged as it violates the principle of secularism.

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution upholds the principle of secularism, which means the state cannot favor or promote any single religion. An amendment mandating financial support to only one religion would violate this principle. The most likely constitutional challenge would be that such an amendment contradicts the fundamental feature of secularism enshrined in the Constitution.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom of Religion

b) Right to change one’s religion

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Freedom of Religion to all citizens. This includes the right to practise, profess, and propagate any religion of their choice.

Key Concept: Separation of Religion and State, Indian Secularism

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Indian Constitution allows the State to intervene in religious practices to abolish untouchability, which is true. This is supported by the constitutional provisions aimed at eradicating social evils like untouchability. The reason states that the principle of secularism in India mandates the State to maintain a separation from religion while also intervening to promote equality within religions, which is also true. The concept of ‘principled distance’ allows the State to interfere in religious matters to uphold constitutional ideals such as equality and justice. The reason correctly explains why the State intervenes in religious practices to abolish untouchability, as it aligns with the broader goal of promoting intra-religious equality.

Key Concept: Core Values

a) Justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution upholds the core values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. These principles guide the functioning of the government and ensure the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms.

Key Concept: Adaptability of the Indian Constitution

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Indian Constitution is designed to be adaptable, which is true as mentioned in the syllabus. The reason explains that amendments in the Constitution ensure its relevance and effectiveness without compromising core principles, which is also true. Moreover, the reason correctly explains why the Constitution is adaptable. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Amendment of the Indian Constitution

c) Article 368

[Solution Description]

The procedure for amending the Indian Constitution is outlined in Article 368. This article provides the framework for how amendments can be proposed and passed, ensuring that changes reflect the evolving needs of the polity.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Cultural and Educational Rights

b) Cultural and Educational Rights

[Solution Description]

Cultural and Educational Rights guarantee minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions to preserve their language and culture. If the government resists, it violates this right, which is essential for protecting minority cultures and languages.

Key Concept: Universal Adult Suffrage

b) Universal Adult Suffrage

[Solution Description]

Universal adult suffrage is a constitutional provision that guarantees every citizen, irrespective of their social background, the right to vote and contest in elections. This helps promote a democratic mindset and breaks traditional hierarchies.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Separation of Powers

b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is NOT the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the judiciary acts as a check on the legislature and executive to prevent misuse of power. This is true because the Constitution clearly defines the separation of powers among the three organs of government, and the judiciary has the power of judicial review to ensure that laws and executive actions comply with the Constitution.

The reason given is that the Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Constitution are enforceable by the judiciary, which can strike down laws or actions violating these rights. This is also true, as the judiciary safeguards Fundamental Rights through its authority to interpret the Constitution and invalidate unconstitutional laws or actions.

However, while both the assertion and reason are true, the reason does not fully explain why the judiciary acts as a check on the legislature and executive. The judiciary’s role extends beyond enforcing Fundamental Rights; it also ensures that all branches of government operate within their constitutional limits. Therefore, the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Parliamentary Form of Government, Universal Adult Suffrage

c) By enabling every citizen to elect their representatives

[Solution Description]

Universal adult suffrage plays a crucial role in maintaining a stable and accountable government in India by ensuring that every citizen above the age of 18 has the right to vote, regardless of their caste, class, gender, or religion. This principle allows citizens to directly elect their representatives, who are then accountable to the people. It promotes inclusivity, breaks traditional hierarchies, and ensures that leaders exercise power responsibly. By giving every citizen a voice in the democratic process, universal adult suffrage strengthens the foundations of democracy and contributes to the stability of governance.

Key Concept: Judiciary: Interprets Laws

a) Both Assertion and Reason are true, and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the Supreme Court of India has the authority to strike down any law that violates the Constitution, which is true as per the power of judicial review. The reason explains that the judiciary ensures laws and executive actions conform to the Constitution, which is also true. Moreover, the reason correctly explains the assertion because the power of judicial review enables the Supreme Court to strike down unconstitutional laws. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.