Polity

2017 · Q110 marks150 words

"The local self-government system in India has not proved to be effective instrument of governance." Critically examine the statement and give your views to improve the situation.

2017 · Q210 marks150 words

Critically examine the Supreme Court's judgement on 'National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014' with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India.

2017 · Q310 marks150 words

"Simultaneous election to the Lok Sabha and the State Assemblies will limit the amount of time and money spent in electioneering but it will reduce the government's accountability to the people." Discuss.

2017 · Q410 marks150 words

How do pressure groups influence Indian political process? Do you agree with this view that informal pressure groups have emerged as more powerful than formal pressure groups in recent years?

2017 · Q510 marks150 words

Discuss the role of Public Accounts Committee in establishing accountability of the government to the people.

2017 · Q1115 marks250 words

Explain the salient features of the Constitution (One Hundred and First Amendment) Act, 2016. Do you think it is efficacious enough "to remove cascading effect of taxes and provide for common national market for goods and services"?

2017 · Q1215 marks250 words

Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy.

2017 · Q1315 marks250 words

The Indian Constitution has provisions for holding joint session of the two Houses of the Parliament. Enumerate the occasions when this would normally happen and also the occasions when it cannot, with reason thereof.

2017 · Q1415 marks250 words

To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful?

2018 · Q110 marks150 words

In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India?

2018 · Q310 marks150 words

Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force?

2018 · Q410 marks150 words

Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss, in this context, the role of the Estimates Committee.

2018 · Q510 marks150 words

"The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play." Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise.

2018 · Q1115 marks250 words

Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine.

2018 · Q1215 marks250 words

How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? In view of the above, discuss the constitutional validity and competency of the tribunals in India.

2018 · Q1315 marks250 words

India and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based.

2018 · Q1415 marks250 words

How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss.

2018 · Q1515 marks250 words

Assess the importance of the Panchayat system in India as a part of local government. Apart from government grants, what sources the Panchayats can look out for financing developmental projects?

2019 · Q110 marks150 words

Do you think that Constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of 'checks and balance'? Explain.

2019 · Q210 marks150 words

"The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of grievances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority." Explain.

2019 · Q310 marks150 words

What are the methods used by the farmers' organisations to influence the policy-makers in India and how effective are these methods?

2019 · Q410 marks150 words

From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, 'Principle of Federal Supremacy' and 'Harmonious Construction' have emerged. Explain.

2019 · Q510 marks150 words

What can France learn from the Indian Constitution's approach to secularism?

2019 · Q1115 marks250 words

On what grounds a people's representative can be disqualified under the Representation of Peoples Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification.

2019 · Q1215 marks250 words

"Parliament's power to amend the Constitution is a limited power and it cannot be enlarged into absolute power." In the light of this statement explain whether Parliament under Article 368 of the Constitution can destroy the Basic Structure of the Constitution by expanding its amending power?

2019 · Q1315 marks250 words

"The reservation of seats for women in the institutions of local self-government has had a limited impact on the patriarchal character of the Indian Political Process." Comment.

2019 · Q1415 marks250 words

"The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India." Discuss.

2019 · Q1515 marks250 words

Individual Parliamentarian's role as the national law maker is on a decline, which in turn, has adversely impacted the quality of debates and their outcome. Discuss.

2020 · Q110 marks150 words

"There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of peoples Act." Comment.

2020 · Q310 marks150 words

How far do you think cooperation, competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your answer.

2020 · Q410 marks150 words

The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in the recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.

2020 · Q510 marks150 words

'Once a speaker, Always a speaker'! Do you think the practice should be adopted to impart objectivity to the office of the Speaker of Lok Sabha? What could be its implications for the robust functioning of parliamentary business in India.

2020 · Q1115 marks250 words

Indian constitution exhibits centralising tendencies to maintain unity and integrity of the nation. Elucidate in the perspective of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897; The Disaster Management Act, 2005 and recently passed Farm Acts.

2020 · Q1215 marks250 words

Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. In this context justify the filing of large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive authorities.

2020 · Q1315 marks250 words

The strength sustenance of local institutions in India has shifted from their formative phase of 'Functions, Functionaries and Funds' to the contemporary stage of 'Functionality'. Highlight the critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality in recent times.

2020 · Q1415 marks250 words

Rajya Sabha has been transformed from a 'useless stepney tyre' to the most useful supporting organ in past few decades. Highlight the factors as well as the areas in which this transformation could be visible.

2021 · Q110 marks150 words

'Constitutional Morality' is rooted in the Constitution itself and is founded on its essential facets. Explain the doctrine of 'Constitutional Morality' with the help of relevant judicial decisions.

2021 · Q210 marks150 words

Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.

2021 · Q310 marks150 words

How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position?

2021 · Q410 marks150 words

To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?

2021 · Q510 marks150 words

"Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India." Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies.

2021 · Q1115 marks250 words

The jurisdiction of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) regarding lodging an FIR and conducting probe within a particular State is being questioned by various States. However, the power of the States to withhold consent to the CBI is not absolute. Explain with special reference to the federal character of India.

2021 · Q1315 marks250 words

Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.

2021 · Q1415 marks250 words

Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations.

2021 · Q1515 marks250 words

Do Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees keep the administration on its toes and inspire reverence for parliamentary control? Evaluate the working of such committees with suitable examples.

2022 · Q110 marks150 words

"The most significant achievement of modern law in India is the constitutionalization of environmental problems by the Supreme Court." Discuss this statement with the help of relevant case laws.

2022 · Q210 marks150 words

"Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute." Comment.

2022 · Q310 marks150 words

To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?

2022 · Q410 marks150 words

Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.

2022 · Q1115 marks250 words

Discuss the procedures to decide the disputes arising out of the election of a Member of the Parliament or State Legislature under The Representation of the People Act, 1951. What are the grounds on which the election of any returned candidate may be declared void? What remedy is available to the aggrieved party against the decision? Refer to the case laws.

2022 · Q1215 marks250 words

Discuss the essential conditions for exercise of the legislative powers by the Governor. Discuss the legality of re-promulgation of ordinances by the Governor without placing them before the Legislature.

2022 · Q1315 marks250 words

"While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy." Comment.

2022 · Q1415 marks250 words

Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.

2022 · Q1515 marks250 words

Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.

2023 · Q110 marks150 words

"Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy." Comment.

2023 · Q310 marks150 words

"The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially." Comment.

2023 · Q410 marks150 words

Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty.

2023 · Q510 marks150 words

Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.

2023 · Q710 marks150 words

Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.

2023 · Q1115 marks250 words

"The Constitution of India is a living instrument with capabilities of enormous dynamism. It is a constitution made for a progressive society." Illustrate with special reference to the expanding horizons of the right to life and personal liberty.

2023 · Q1315 marks250 words

Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.

2023 · Q1415 marks250 words

Discuss the contribution of civil society groups for women's effective and meaningful participation and representation in state legislatures in India.

2023 · Q1515 marks250 words

Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?

2023 · Q1615 marks250 words

Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalisation of Indian Parliament?

2024 · Q110 marks150 words

Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to "one nation – one election" principle.

2024 · Q210 marks150 words

Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats and Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?

2024 · Q310 marks150 words

"The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy." Elucidate.

2024 · Q410 marks150 words

"The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety." Comment.

2024 · Q510 marks150 words

Analyse the role of local bodies in providing good governance at local level and bring out the pros and cons merging the rural local bodies with the urban local bodies.

2024 · Q1215 marks250 words

Right to privacy is intrinsic to life and personal liberty and is inherently protected under Article 21 of the constitution. Explain. In this reference discuss the law relating to D.N.A. testing of child in the womb to establish its paternity.

2024 · Q1315 marks250 words

What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-State relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism.

2024 · Q1415 marks250 words

Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world's most powerful judiciary?

2024 · Q1515 marks250 words

Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.

2025 · Q110 marks150 words

Discuss the 'corrupt practices' for the purpose of the Representation of the People Act, 1951. Analyze whether the increase in the assets of the legislators and/or their associates, disproportionate to their known sources of income, would constitute 'undue influence' and consequently a corrupt practice.

2025 · Q210 marks150 words

Comment on the need of administrative tribunals as compared to the court system. Assess the impact of the recent tribunal reforms through rationalization of tribunals made in 2021.

2025 · Q310 marks150 words

Compare and contrast the President's power to pardon in India and in the USA. Are there any limits to it in both the countries? What are 'preemptive pardons'?

2025 · Q410 marks150 words

Discuss the nature of Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly after the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019. Briefly describe the powers and functions of the Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

2025 · Q510 marks150 words

"The Attorney General of India plays a crucial role in guiding the legal framework of the Union Government and ensuring sound governance through legal counsel." Discuss his responsibilities, rights and limitations in this regard.

2025 · Q1115 marks250 words

"Constitutional morality is the fulcrum which acts as an essential check upon the high functionaries and citizens alike... ." In view of the above observation of the Supreme Court, explain the concept of constitutional morality and its application to ensure balance between judicial independence and judicial accountability in India.

2025 · Q1215 marks250 words

Indian Constitution has conferred the amending power on the ordinary legislative institutions with a few procedural hurdles. In view of this statement, examine the procedural and substantive limitations on the amending power of the Parliament to change the Constitution.

2025 · Q1315 marks250 words

Discuss the evolution of collegium system in India. Critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the system of appointment of the Judges of the Supreme Court of India and that of the USA.

2025 · Q1415 marks250 words

Examine the evolving pattern of Centre-State financial relations in the context of planned development in India. How far have the recent reforms impacted the fiscal federalism in India?

2025 · Q1515 marks250 words

What are environmental pressure groups? Discuss their role in raising awareness, influencing policies and advocating for environmental protection in India.

2026 · Q110 marks150 words

Right to privacy relating to self-identity is very dear to every human being and well protected under Article 21 of the Constitution. In this context, examine the effect of the amendment in 2026, to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

2026 · Q210 marks150 words

“Women as a class neither belong to a minority group nor are they regarded as forming a backward class.” In the light of this statement, discuss the evolution of women's reservation from local bodies to Parliament.

2026 · Q310 marks150 words

Examine whether the constitutional office of the Lok Sabha Speaker has become vulnerable to partisan politics under the current anti-defection regime. What institutional changes are required to ensure the neutrality of the Lok Sabha Speaker in managing a polarised House?

2026 · Q410 marks150 words

Is the right to vote a fundamental right? Discuss the position of the Election Commission of India while undertaking the revision of electoral rolls. Can it also examine the question of citizenship of voters?

2026 · Q1115 marks250 words

Discuss the position of the Governor in the federal polity of India. What is the nature of his power while giving assent to a bill passed by the State Legislature? Is he bound by the aid and advice of his Council of Ministers in all his functions?

2026 · Q1215 marks250 words

What is meant by judicial legislation? In this context, discuss the verdicts of the apex court allowing “passive euthanasia” and a “living will”.

2026 · Q1315 marks250 words

How far has the Indian federal framework been successful in accommodating regional and cultural diversities? Highlight the role of asymmetric federalism and suggest measures to make dispute resolution mechanisms more effective.

2026 · Q1415 marks250 words

Examine how the separation of powers is practised in India compared to the rigid presidential model of the United States of America. In this context, compare the actual authority of the Indian Prime Minister with that of the President of the USA.

2026 · Q1515 marks250 words

To what extent do pressure groups, social movements and corporate lobbies deepen pluralistic democracy in India by representing excluded interests? Analyse whether the growing convergence of corporate wealth and political power poses a threat to the autonomy of formal democratic institutions.