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

Key Concept: Role of Goalkeeper in Football

d) The goalkeeper

[Solution Description]

In football, the goalkeeper is the only player who is allowed to touch the ball with their hands without it being considered a foul. This is a specific rule that differentiates the goalkeeper’s role from other players.

Key Concept: Democratic Governance, Constitutional Roles

c) To guide responsible decision-making and prevent misuse of authority

[Solution Description]

In democratic societies, the Constitution lays down important guidelines that govern decision-making. It ensures that leaders exercise power responsibly on behalf of the citizens and provides safeguards against the misuse of authority, thereby preventing gross injustice.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules of Society

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that a Constitution is a written document containing the constitutive rules of a society. This is true as explained in the syllabus, where the Constitution is described as a written document with such rules. The reason given is that constitutive rules define the fundamental nature of a society and distinguish it from other societies. This is also true because, as per the syllabus, constitutive rules are fundamental to defining the nature of a society, just like the rules of a game define its nature. Moreover, the reason correctly explains why a Constitution is necessary, as it encapsulates these fundamental rules. Thus, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Definition of a Constitution

b) To provide a set of rules and principles for governance

[Solution Description]

The primary purpose of a Constitution is to lay out certain ideals that form the basis of the kind of country that citizens aspire to live in. It serves as a set of rules and principles that all persons in a country can agree upon for the governance of the country.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules

b) Fundamental rules defining a society

[Solution Description] Constitutive rules are fundamental rules that define the nature and identity of a society or game. They help differentiate one society or game from another and are usually formulated through consensus in written form, such as a Constitution.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules

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 lays down the ideals that define the kind of country we want to live in. This is true because the Constitution indeed outlines the fundamental principles and values that guide the nation. The reason given is that the Constitution serves as a set of rules and principles agreed upon by all citizens for the governance of the country. This is also true, as the Constitution acts as a consensus document that governs the functioning of the state. Moreover, the reason correctly explains why the Constitution lays down these ideals, as it is through this agreement on rules and principles that the ideals are established. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Consensus, Constitution

c) To ensure rules are acceptable to all members of society

[Solution Description] In large societies with diverse communities, consensus is crucial for formulating constitutive rules because it ensures that the rules are acceptable to all members of society. Consensus helps in creating a shared understanding and agreement on the fundamental principles that govern the society. This collective agreement is often documented in a written Constitution, which serves as the foundational framework for the society. Thus, consensus is essential to maintain harmony and fairness in the formulation of these rules.

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: Constitution’s Role in Protecting Rights, Preventing Dictatorship

b) To protect democratic principles and prevent the erosion of fundamental rights.

[Solution Description] The Constitution acts as a safeguard against impulsive decisions that may harm the long-term interests of the country. While a majority might temporarily support a dictator due to dissatisfaction with party politics, such a decision would undermine democratic principles and individual freedoms. The Constitution ensures that fundamental rights and democratic structures are not easily altered or overthrown, protecting citizens from their own short-term emotions.

Key Concept: Constitution and Ideals of a Nation

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

[Solution Description]

The Constitution of India indeed lays down the ideals that form the basis of the kind of country its citizens aspire to live in. This is one of its primary purposes, as it sets the fundamental nature of society. Additionally, the Constitution serves as a set of rules and principles agreed upon by all citizens for the governance of the country. This includes not only the type of government but also an agreement on certain ideals that they all believe the country should uphold. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: Constitutive Rules, Democratic Governance

c) To define the structure and functioning of the government

[Solution Description]

A Constitution in a democratic country serves as the foundational framework that outlines the structure, powers, and functions of the government. It ensures that the government operates within defined limits, preventing arbitrary use of power. Additionally, it establishes the rights and freedoms of citizens, ensuring equality and justice. The Constitution also provides a mechanism for resolving conflicts between different branches of government, maintaining a balance of power. Without a Constitution, there would be no clear guidelines for governance, leading to potential misuse of power and instability.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Prevention of Misuse of Power

a) Establishment of a strong dictator to resolve political disputes

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution provides several safeguards to prevent the misuse of power by elected representatives. These include the Fundamental Rights, which guarantee equality and protect citizens from discrimination, ensuring that the executive branch does not become too powerful, and making sure that government actions are accountable to the legislature. However, the Constitution does not allow for the establishment of a dictatorship as a means to solve political disputes, as this goes against the principles of democracy and the protection of citizens’ rights.

Key Concept: Tyranny of the Majority

b) The majority dominates and harms the interests of minorities

[Solution Description]

The term “tyranny of the majority” refers to a situation where the majority enforces decisions that exclude or harm the interests of minorities. A Constitution helps prevent this by ensuring that minorities are protected and their rights are preserved.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

c) No discrimination based on religion, race, caste, gender, and place of birth

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution guarantees the Right to Equality, which ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, and place of birth. This is one of the Fundamental Rights provided by the Constitution.

Key Concept: Political System Transition

c) To establish a democratic political system

[Solution Description]

The primary reason for the shift in executive power from the King to the Council of Ministers was to establish a democratic political system. The 1990 Constitution vested executive power in the King and the Council of Ministers, while the 2015 Constitution vested it solely in the Council of Ministers, reflecting the transition from a monarchy to a democracy.

Key Concept: Constitution, Democracy, Political system

c) It reflected the authority of the King and not democratic ideals

[Solution Description]

The previous Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 1990, was designed under a monarchical system where the final authority rested with the King. After the 2006 movement, the people aimed to establish a democratic system where sovereignty lies with the people. The old Constitution did not reflect these democratic ideals, necessitating the creation of a new Constitution that aligned with the people’s aspirations for democracy.

Key Concept: Constitution and Democratic Values

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

[Solution Description] The assertion states that the adoption of a new Constitution in Nepal in 2015 was necessary to reflect the democratic values established by the people’s movement. This is true because the new Constitution was designed to replace the monarchical system with a democratic one, aligning with the aspirations of the people. The reason states that the previous Constitution of Nepal, adopted in 1990, reflected the authority of the King and did not align with the democratic ideals of the people. This is also true, as the 1990 Constitution upheld the monarchy, which was against the democratic principles that the people had fought for. Furthermore, the reason correctly explains why the new Constitution was necessary, as it directly addresses the inadequacies of the previous Constitution in reflecting democratic values.

Key Concept: Father of the Indian Constitution

d) Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

[Solution Description]

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution.

Key Concept: Key Features of Indian Constitution, Historical Context

c) To safeguard individual freedoms and protect citizens from potential abuses of power

[Solution Description]

The framers of the Indian Constitution included fundamental rights to safeguard individual freedoms and protect citizens from potential abuses of power. These rights were inspired by the injustices experienced during colonial rule and were deemed essential for fostering a just and equitable society. Fundamental rights ensure that all individuals have access to basic liberties such as freedom of speech, equality before the law, and protection from discrimination.

Key Concept: Demand for a Constitution

b) 1934

[Solution Description]

The Indian National Congress made the formal demand for a Constituent Assembly in 1934. This was a significant step in the freedom struggle, as it marked the beginning of the push for an independent constitution drafted by Indians.

Key Concept: Purpose of Constitution

b) To create economic inequality

[Solution Description]

The Constitution serves several purposes, including laying out ideals for the country, providing a set of rules and principles for governance, and ensuring equality and participation in government. However, it does not directly aim to create economic inequality.

Key Concept: Historical Context, Challenges Faced

b) The imminent partition of the country into India and Pakistan

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly faced several challenges while drafting the Constitution, including the imminent partition of India and Pakistan, the indecision of some Princely States about their future, and the poor socio-economic condition of the masses. These issues required careful consideration to ensure national unity and diversity.

Key Concept: Influence of India’s struggle for independence

b) 1934

[Solution Description]

The Indian National Congress made the demand for a Constituent Assembly in 1934. This demand was crucial in shaping the future constitution of independent India.

Key Concept: Role of the Constituent Assembly

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Constituent Assembly of India was convened in December 1946 to draft a constitution for independent India. This is true, as the Constituent Assembly was indeed convened in December 1946 for this purpose. The reason states that the Indian National Congress had demanded a Constituent Assembly as early as 1934, and this demand gained momentum during the Second World War. This is also true, as the demand for a Constituent Assembly was made by the Indian National Congress in 1934 and gained significant momentum during the Second World War. However, while both statements are true, the reason does not explain why the Constituent Assembly was convened in December 1946. Therefore, the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: The Making of the Indian Constitution

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

[Solution Description] The Constituent Assembly of India was indeed composed of around 300 members who represented diverse regions and communities. This diversity was crucial as it allowed for the inclusion of various perspectives and ensured that the Constitution would be a comprehensive document reflecting the aspirations of all sections of Indian society. Therefore, both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion.

Key Concept: The Making 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 members of the Constituent Assembly were united in their goal to create a democratic constitution for India, which is true as they worked collectively to draft the Constitution. The Reason explains that the long experience of authoritarian rule under the colonial state convinced Indians that free India should be a democracy, which is also true. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains why the members of the Constituent Assembly were united and aimed for a democratic constitution, as their experiences shaped this goal.

Key Concept: Vision of unity in diversity and social justice

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 reflects a vision of unity in diversity by ensuring representation for all communities. This is true because the Constitution includes provisions that protect the rights of various communities, religions, and languages, promoting national unity while respecting diversity. The Reason explains that the Constituent Assembly was composed of members from diverse backgrounds who aimed to balance national unity with socio-economic reforms. This is also true as the Assembly included leaders from different regions, religions, and socio-economic groups, and their discussions reflected a commitment to both unity and social justice. However, while the Reason provides context for the Assertion, it does not directly explain why the Constitution reflects unity in diversity through representation. Therefore, both are true, but the Reason is not the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: Key Personalities Involved

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

[Solution Description]

The Assertion states that Dr. B.R. Ambedkar is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution, which is true. He was indeed recognized for his significant contributions to the drafting of the Constitution. The Reason given is that he played a pivotal role in shaping the document and securing safeguards for the Scheduled Castes, which is also true. Furthermore, the Reason correctly explains why he is called the Father of the Indian Constitution, as his efforts in shaping the Constitution and advocating for the rights of Scheduled Castes were crucial. Therefore, both Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason is the correct explanation of the Assertion.

Key Concept: Dr. B.R. Ambedkar: Father of 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 believed his participation in the Constituent Assembly helped Scheduled Castes secure safeguards in the draft constitution. This is true as he actively worked towards ensuring constitutional protections for marginalized communities. The reason given is that he urged Scheduled Castes to join the government and civil services because he feared that caste Hindu officers might not administer laws fairly. This is also true, as Dr. Ambedkar was concerned about the impartiality of law enforcement by caste Hindu officers. However, the reason does not directly explain why his participation led to safeguards in the constitution; it explains a separate concern about administration. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Concepts: Constituent Assembly timeline

c) 1946-1949

[Solution Description] The Constituent Assembly drafted the Indian Constitution between December 1946 and November 1949.

Key Concept: Sardar Patel’s Contribution to Consensus Building

b) Through facilitating compromises and addressing concerns

[Solution Description]

Sardar Patel was known for his ability to bring together different viewpoints and facilitate compromises. He worked tirelessly to ensure that all members of the Constituent Assembly felt their concerns were addressed, which was key to achieving agreement on the constitution.

Key Concept: National Integration, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s Role

a) Unifying the princely states with the Indian Union

[Solution Description]

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played a crucial role in unifying the princely states with the Indian Union, ensuring national integration. His efforts were instrumental in convincing over 500 princely states to accede to India, thereby preventing the fragmentation of the country post-independence. His diplomatic skills and firm stance helped in maintaining the territorial integrity of India.

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

b) Idealism and consensus-building

[Solution Description]

Dr. Rajendra Prasad was known for his ability to foster unity and consensus among the members of the Constituent Assembly. He approached the task of drafting the constitution with great idealism and a sincere effort to compromise and reach agreements.

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

c) 1946-1950

[Solution Description]

Dr. Rajendra Prasad served as the President of the Constituent Assembly from December 1946 to January 1950. He played a significant role in guiding the discussions and ensuring consensus among the members during the drafting of the Indian Constitution.

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) Multiple levels of government including states and Panchayati Raj

[Solution Description] Federalism in India involves multiple levels of government, including the central and state governments. Panchayati Raj is also recognized as the third tier of government. This system ensures that decision-making is not centralized only in New Delhi but is distributed across different levels of governance.

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) Panchayati Raj functions as the third tier of government

[Solution Description]

Panchayati Raj represents the third tier of government in India, functioning at the local level. It plays a crucial role in decentralizing power and ensuring local self-governance. Panchayati Raj institutions are empowered to make decisions on local issues, thereby complementing the federal structure of India.

Key Concept: Central Government, Constitution, National Affairs

c) Defense

[Solution Description]

The Central Government is responsible for subjects of national concern such as defense, foreign affairs, and communication. Among the given options, defense is a subject that falls under the exclusive authority of the Central Government.

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: Federalism

b) State Government

[Solution Description]

In India, the state governments are responsible for managing regional issues. This is part of the federal structure where state governments enjoy autonomy in exercising powers on certain issues.

Key Concept: Federalism in the Indian Constitution

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

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution establishes a federal system where both the central and state governments have distinct areas of authority. The State List includes subjects on which only the state governments can legislate, such as public health and agriculture. This division of powers is specified in the Constitution, ensuring that states are not merely agents of the central government but have independent legislative authority derived from the Constitution itself. Therefore, both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains why state governments have the authority to make laws on subjects listed in the State List.

Key Concept: Parliamentary Form of Government, Accountability

c) Because they are elected by the people and must act in their interest.

[Solution Description]

In the parliamentary form of government, representatives are elected by the people through universal adult suffrage. These representatives are accountable to the people because they derive their authority from the electorate and must act in the public interest to secure re-election.

Key Concept: State vs Government, Universal Adult Suffrage

d) The State represents a sovereign people and their territory, while the government administers and enforces laws.

[Solution Description]

The State refers to a political institution that represents a sovereign people who occupy a definite territory, whereas the government is responsible for administering and enforcing laws and can change with elections. The State is a broader concept that includes the government but is not limited to it.

Key Concept: Constituent Assembly

b) It was a group of about 300 people who drafted the constitution

[Solution Description]

The Constituent Assembly, consisting of around 300 members, met periodically from 1946 to 1949 to draft the Indian Constitution. They discussed each provision in detail, aimed for consensus, and ensured the principles of democracy and equality were incorporated into the constitution.

Key Concept: Universal Adult Franchise

c) To bring enlightenment and improve the well-being of the common man

[Solution Description]

Shri A.K. Ayyar emphasized that the adoption of universal adult franchise was based on a strong belief in the common man and the success of democratic rule. He believed that it would lead to enlightenment, well-being, improved living standards, and decent living conditions for all citizens.

Key Concept: Panchayati Raj

c) Five years

[Solution Description]

According to the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, the tenure of a Gram Panchayat is five years. However, it can be dissolved earlier under certain conditions, and fresh elections must be held within six months of dissolution.

Key Concept: Municipalities, Local Governance, Taxation

d) Municipalities are authorized to collect taxes and fees to fund their activities.

[Solution Description] Municipalities in India have the authority to collect taxes and fees to fund their activities, as provided by the Constitution. This financial autonomy allows them to manage local issues such as sanitation, water supply, and infrastructure development without being entirely dependent on state or central government funds.

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: Parliamentary Form of Government, Equal Representation

c) It ensures elected representatives represent diverse constituencies.

[Solution Description]

The parliamentary form of government promotes equal representation by ensuring that elected representatives from various constituencies form the government. These representatives are accountable to the people who elect them, ensuring that diverse voices and interests are represented in the decision-making process. Additionally, the principle of universal adult franchise ensures that every citizen has an equal opportunity to elect their representatives, fostering inclusivity and equality in governance.

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: Role of Constitution in Elections

c) To provide guidelines for a fair and inclusive election process

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution lays down important guidelines for the election process, ensuring that it is fair, transparent, and inclusive. It guarantees universal adult suffrage, allowing every citizen to vote and contest in elections. The Constitution also provides safeguards to ensure that elected representatives act responsibly and are accountable to the people.

Key Concept: Misuse of Authority, Safeguards in Constitution

c) To protect citizens from exploitation and injustice.

[Solution Description]

Constitutional safeguards are essential to prevent elected representatives from misusing their power. Such misuse can lead to injustice and exploitation, as seen in the example of Suresh, the class monitor. These safeguards ensure that leaders exercise their authority responsibly and remain accountable to the people, thereby protecting democratic values.

Key Concept: Citizens Elect Representatives

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

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution includes mechanisms such as separation of powers, fundamental rights, and the parliamentary form of government to ensure that elected representatives remain accountable to the people. These provisions act as checks and balances to prevent the misuse of authority by leaders. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Universal Adult Suffrage

c) It guarantees the right to vote to all citizens above 18 years

[Solution Description]

Universal adult suffrage ensures that every citizen of India, irrespective of social background, has the right to vote. This principle was adopted to promote democracy and break traditional hierarchies, enabling direct participation of the people in electing their representatives.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Universal Adult Suffrage

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 universal adult suffrage to ensure equal participation in the electoral process. This is true as the Constitution explicitly provides for universal adult suffrage, allowing all citizens above the age of 18 to vote irrespective of their social background.

The Reason explains that universal adult suffrage was introduced to dismantle traditional caste, class, and gender hierarchies and foster a democratic mindset. This is also true, as the framers of the Constitution believed that universal adult suffrage would empower marginalized groups and encourage democratic values.

Both the Assertion and Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the purpose behind the introduction of universal adult suffrage in the Indian Constitution. Therefore, the correct answer is option a).

Key Concept: Separation of Powers

c) Interpreting laws

[Solution Description]

The judiciary’s role in the separation of powers is to interpret laws and ensure that they are applied justly. It acts as a check on the legislature and executive to prevent misuse of power.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the separation of powers prevents any single organ of government from becoming too powerful. This is true because the Constitution explicitly divides powers among the three organs: the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary. The reason given is that the Constitution divides these powers to maintain a balance of power. This is also true, and it directly explains why the separation of powers prevents any one organ from becoming too powerful. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers and Legislature

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the Constitution ensures the legislature acts as a check on the executive to prevent misuse of power, which is true because the separation of powers is a fundamental feature of the Indian Constitution. The reason states that the Indian Constitution includes provisions to limit and control the actions of the executive branch, which is also true. However, while both statements are correct, the reason does not directly explain why the legislature acts as a check on the executive. Instead, it provides additional information about how the Constitution limits the executive’s actions. Therefore, the reason is not the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the legislature in India is responsible for making laws, which is true according to the syllabus. The reason also correctly states that the primary function of the legislature, which includes the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, is to make laws. Both statements are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Executive, Checks and Balances

b) The judiciary can review the decisions of the executive

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution has a system of checks and balances to prevent the misuse of power by any one branch of government. Each organ of government (legislature, executive, judiciary) exercises different powers and acts as a check on the other organs. This ensures the balance of power between all three. The Constituent Assembly included provisions in the Constitution to limit and control the actions of the executive branch.

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: Separation of Powers, Fundamental Rights

c) The legislature questioning the executive’s actions

[Solution Description]

The principle of checks and balances ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. In the context of the Indian Constitution, the legislature enacts laws, and the executive implements them. However, the legislature can hold the executive accountable by passing motions of no confidence or questioning its actions. This prevents the executive from misusing its power. The judiciary also plays a role in ensuring that both the legislature and the executive act within the constitutional framework. Therefore, the scenario where the legislature questions the executive’s actions to ensure accountability best illustrates this principle.

Key Concept: Separation of Powers

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

[Solution Description]

The assertion states that the separation of powers prevents the misuse of authority by any one organ of the government. This is true because the Indian Constitution divides the government into three distinct organs: the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary. Each organ has specific powers and functions, and they are designed to keep a check on each other. The reason explains that this separation maintains a balance of power by ensuring that no single organ becomes too dominant. This is also true and correctly explains why the separation of powers prevents the misuse of authority. Therefore, both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Right against Exploitation

c) Right against Exploitation

[Solution Description]

The Right against Exploitation prohibits the employment of children under 14 years of age in any hazardous occupation or work. In this case, a 13-year-old child is working in a factory, which directly violates this right.

Key Concept: Right to Equality

c) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

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

Key Concept: Right to Equality and Employment

c) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Right to Equality ensures that no citizen can be discriminated against on the basis of their sex. Denying promotion to an officer solely because she is a woman is a clear violation of this right.

Key Concept: Untouchability, Legal Abolition

c) article 17, Abolition of Untouchability

[Solution Description] The practice of untouchability is abolished under Article 17 of the Indian Constitution. This provision ensures that no person can be discriminated against or denied access to public resources based on caste. It is a significant step toward social equality and justice.

Key Concept: Public Access

b) Equal access regardless of caste

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution ensures that all citizens have equal access to public places such as playgrounds, hotels, and shops. This provision is part of the Right to Equality, which aims to eradicate social injustices and promote equality among all citizens.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

b) Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression

[Solution Description]

The Right to Freedom in the Indian Constitution includes the right to freedom of speech and expression, the right to form associations, the right to move freely and reside in any part of the country, and the right to practise any profession, occupation or business.

Key Concept: Freedom of Speech and Expression

c) Maintaining public order

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a). However, this right is not absolute and is subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, defamation, or incitement to an offence. Among the options, maintaining public order is a valid ground for imposing restrictions on this right.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

b) To allow collective expression and social change

[Solution Description]

The right to assemble peacefully allows citizens to gather collectively to express their opinions and engage in activities that promote social and political change. It is essential for democratic participation and collective expression.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Equality

b) By allowing individuals to access resources and opportunities equally

[Solution Description]

The Right to move freely within India contributes to the principle of equality by allowing individuals to access resources, services, and opportunities across different regions without discrimination. This right ensures that citizens can pursue education, employment, and livelihoods anywhere in the country, thereby promoting equal access and reducing regional disparities.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom

c) Right to Practise any Profession

[Solution Description] The Right to Freedom in the Indian Constitution includes several rights, such as the right to freedom of speech and expression, the right to form associations, the right to move freely and reside in any part of the country, and the right to practise any profession, occupation or business. Among these options, the right to practise any profession is explicitly mentioned as a Fundamental Right.

Key Concept: Right Against Exploitation

c) Right against Exploitation

[Solution Description] The Indian Constitution prohibits forced labour under the Right against Exploitation. Being compelled to work without wages constitutes forced labour, thereby violating this right.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights, Right against Exploitation, Child Labor

c) A 10-year-old employed in a factory

[Solution Description]

The Right against Exploitation under the Fundamental Rights prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in hazardous jobs. This provision ensures that children are protected from exploitation and have the opportunity to grow and develop without being subjected to harmful working conditions. Therefore, employing a 10-year-old child in a factory would be unconstitutional as it directly violates this right.

Key Concept: Right against Exploitation

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 true because Article 24 of the Indian Constitution explicitly prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 in factories, mines, or any hazardous employment. The reason correctly explains the assertion by directly referencing Article 24, which is the constitutional basis for this prohibition. Therefore, both the assertion and the reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation of the assertion.

Key Concept: Right to Freedom of Religion

b) It ensures equal religious rights for all communities

[Solution Description] The Right to Freedom of Religion ensures that minority communities have the same rights as the majority to practise, profess, and propagate their religion. It protects them from being dominated or discriminated against by the majority community.

Key Concept: Freedom of Religion, Intra-religious Domination

c) By promoting freedom and equality within religions

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution addresses intra-religious domination by promoting freedom and equality within religions. It opposes institutionalized practices that lead to domination, such as untouchability, and ensures that all individuals have the right to practice, profess, and propagate their religion without facing discrimination.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights

b) Freedom to establish educational institutions

[Solution Description] The key feature of the Cultural and Educational Rights is that they allow minority communities to establish and administer their own educational institutions. This ensures that they can preserve and promote their unique cultural heritage. Thus, the correct answer is the option that mentions the freedom to establish educational institutions.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights, Fundamental Rights

c) Article 29 and Article 30

[Solution Description]

The Cultural and Educational Rights under Article 29 and Article 30 of the Indian Constitution allow minorities to establish and administer educational institutions for preserving and developing their culture. These provisions ensure that minorities can protect their cultural identity through education.

Key Concept: Cultural and Educational Rights

a) Religious and linguistic minorities

[Solution Description]

The Indian Constitution explicitly mentions religious and linguistic minorities as groups that have the right to establish and manage their own educational institutions.

Key Concept: Right to Constitutional Remedies

c) File a writ petition in the Supreme Court

[Solution Description]

The citizen can approach the court under Article 32 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the Right to Constitutional Remedies. This allows citizens to directly move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of their Fundamental Rights. Since the state law is perceived as violating the citizen’s Fundamental Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression, the appropriate remedy would be to file a writ petition in the Supreme Court.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

c) To ensure citizens can claim rights and bind authorities

[Solution Description]

According to Dr Ambedkar, the primary objectives of Fundamental Rights are two-fold: (1) every citizen must be in a position to claim those rights, and (2) these rights must be binding upon every authority that has the power to make laws. These objectives ensure that the rights are accessible to all and enforceable against the State and other entities.

Key Concept: Directive Principles of State Policy, Poverty Reduction

c) Article 43

[Solution Description]

Article 43 of the Directive Principles of State Policy specifically focuses on securing a living wage and conditions of work that ensure a decent standard of life for workers. This principle aims to improve the economic and social conditions of the working class by advocating for fair wages and humane working conditions.

Key Concept: Directive Principles of State Policy, Social and Economic Justice

b) Provision of free and compulsory education for children up to the age of 14 years

[Solution Description]

The Directive Principles of State Policy aim to minimize inequalities in income, status, facilities, and opportunities. This principle is designed to ensure that all citizens have equal access to resources and opportunities, reducing disparities in society. Among the given options, the provision of free and compulsory education for children up to the age of 14 years directly addresses this principle by ensuring that all children, regardless of their socio-economic background, have access to education, thereby reducing inequalities in opportunities.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

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

[Solution Description]

The Assertion is true because the Right to Equality, as provided in the Fundamental Rights of the Indian Constitution, explicitly states that no citizen can be discriminated against on the basis of their religion, caste, or sex. The Reason is also true because one of the key objectives of the Indian Constitution is to reduce inequalities and promote the welfare of all its citizens. However, the Reason does not directly explain the Assertion, as the aim to reduce inequalities and promote welfare is a broader objective of the Constitution, while the Assertion specifically refers to the Right to Equality.

Key Concept: Secularism, Inter-religious Domination, Intra-religious Domination

c) To prevent inter-religious and intra-religious domination and promote equality.

[Solution Description]

The separation between Religion and State is crucial to prevent inter-religious domination, where one religion may dominate others, and intra-religious domination, where certain groups within a religion may dominate others. This separation ensures freedom and equality both between and within religions. For example, the Indian Constitution has abolished practices like untouchability to promote equality within Hinduism.

Key Concept: 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 maintains a separation between religion and the state to prevent inter-religious domination. This is true because the Indian Constitution defines secularism as the separation of religion and state to ensure equality among all religions. The reason explains that inter-religious domination happens when one religion is promoted as the state religion, leading to inequality. This is also true and directly explains why the separation is necessary to prevent such domination. Both the assertion and reason are true, and the reason correctly explains the assertion.

Key Concept: Secularism

c) The state does not promote or favor any religion.

[Solution Description] Secularism in the Indian Constitution means that the state does not officially promote or favor any one religion as the state religion. It ensures equality of all religions and treats them impartially.

Key Concept: Inter-religious Domination

b) To prevent the domination of one religion over another

[Solution Description] The separation between religion and state is crucial to prevent the domination of one religion over another. This ensures that no single religion can impose its beliefs or practices on others, thereby maintaining religious harmony and equality.

Key Concept: Indian Secularism

b) To ensure equality and freedom within and between religions

[Solution Description]

The primary reason for the separation of religion and state in India is to prevent inter-religious domination and intra-religious domination, ensuring equality and freedom within and between religions.

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

b) Right to Freedom

[Solution Description]

The Right to Freedom includes the right to move freely and reside in any part of the country. By preventing laborers from other states from working, the politician is violating this right as it restricts their freedom to move and work in any part of India.

Key Concept: Safeguards Against Misuse of Authority, Fundamental Rights

b) Fundamental Rights

[Solution Description]

The safeguards against the misuse of authority by political leaders are primarily contained in the section on Fundamental Rights. These rights ensure that leaders exercise power responsibly and do not infringe upon the rights and freedoms of citizens.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

c) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Right to Equality is one of the Fundamental Rights guaranteed by the Indian Constitution. It ensures equality before the law and prohibits discrimination on various grounds, thus protecting individuals from the misuse of authority.

Key Concept: Fundamental Rights

b) Right to Equality

[Solution Description]

The Right to Equality under Article 14-18 guarantees that no citizen can be discriminated against on grounds of religion, race, caste, gender, or place of birth. This right is crucial for ensuring justice and equality in society.

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.