UPSC Mains Polity & Constitution PYQs, 2016-2026

100 Polity & Constitution questions from GS Paper 2, 2016-2026: constitution, parliament, judiciary, federalism, constitutional bodies. Newest year first, from the official UPSC papers. Practise them and get your answers checked with UPSC Mains answer evaluation.

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2026

1
Right to privacy relating to self-identity is very dear to every human being and well protected under Article 2 of the Constitution. In this context, examine the effect of the amendment in 2026, to the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 209.
150 words · 10 marks
2
"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.
150 words · 10 marks
3
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?
150 words · 10 marks
4
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?
150 words · 10 marks
5
Do constitutional bodies like the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) possess adequate enforcement powers to secure substantive social equality? Suggest measures to enhance their institutional effectiveness.
150 words · 10 marks
11
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?
250 words · 15 marks
12
What is meant by judicial legislation? In this context, discuss the verdicts of the apex court allowing "passive euthanasia" and a "living will".
250 words · 15 marks
13
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.
250 words · 15 marks
14
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.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2025

1
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. (150 words/10 marks)
2
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. (150 words/10 marks)
3
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? (150 words/10 marks)
4
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. (150 words/10 marks)
5
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. (150 words/10 marks)
11
"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. (250 words/15 marks)
Model answer & what aspirants miss
12
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. (250 words/15 marks)
Model answer & what aspirants miss
13
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. (250 words/15 marks)
14
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? (250 words/15 marks)

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2024

1
Examine the need for electoral reforms as suggested by various committees with particular reference to “one nation – one election” principle.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
2
Explain and distinguish between Lok Adalats And Arbitration Tribunals. Whether they entertain civil as well as criminal cases?
150 words · 10 marks
3
“The growth of cabinet system has practically resulted in the marginalisation of the parliamentary supremacy:” Elucidate.
150 words · 10 marks
4
“The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety.” Comment.
150 words · 10 marks
11
What are the aims and objects of recently passed and enforced, The Public Examination (Prevention of Unfair Means) Act, 2024? Whether University/State Education Board examinations, too, are covered under the Act ?
250 words · 15 marks
12
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.
250 words · 15 marks
13
What changes has the Union Government recently introduced in the domain of Centre-Stare relations? Suggest measures to be adopted to build the trust between the Centre and the States and for strengthening federalism.
250 words · 15 marks
14
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 ?
250 words · 15 marks
15
Discuss India as a secular state and compare with the secular principles of the US constitution.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2023

1
"Constitutionally guaranteed judicial independence is a prerequisite of democracy." Comment.
150 words · 10 marks
2
Who are entitled to receive free legal aid ? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.
150 words · 10 marks
3
"The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban local bodies both functionally as well as financially." Comment.
150 words · 10 marks
4
Compare and contrast the British and Indian approaches to Parliamentary sovereignty.
150 words · 10 marks
5
Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and in facilitating best democratic practices.
150 words · 10 marks
11
"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.
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
12
Explain the constitutional perspectives of Gender Justice with the help of relevant Constitutional Provisions and case laws.
250 words · 15 marks
13
Account for the legal and political factors responsible for the reduced frequency of using Article 356 by the Union Governments since mid 1990s.
250 words · 15 marks
15
Explain the significance of the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. To what extent does it reflect the accommodative spirit of federalism?
250 words · 15 marks
16
Explain the structure of the Parliamentary Committee system. How far have the financial committees helped in the institutionalisation of Indian Parliament?
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2022

1
"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.
150 words · 10 marks
2
"Right of movement and residence throughout the territory of India are freely available to the Indian citizens, but these rights are not absolute." Comment.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
3
To what extent, in your opinion, has the decentralisation of power in India changed the governance landscape at the grassroots?
150 words · 10 marks
4
Discuss the role of the Vice-President of India as the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
150 words · 10 marks
5
Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body.
150 words · 10 marks
11
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, 95. 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.
250 words · 15 marks
12
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.
250 words · 15 marks
13
"While the national political parties in India favour centralisation, the regional parties are in favour of State autonomy." Comment.
250 words · 15 marks
14
Critically examine the procedures through which the Presidents of India and France are elected.
250 words · 15 marks
15
Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2021

1
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.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
2
Discuss the desirability of greater representation to women in the higher judiciary to ensure diversity, equity and inclusiveness.
150 words · 10 marks
3
How have the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission of India enabled the States to improve their fiscal position?
150 words · 10 marks
4
To what extent, in your view, the Parliament is able to ensure accountability of the executive in India?
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
5
"Pressure groups play a vital role in influencing public policy making in India." Explain how the business associations contribute to public policies.
150 words · 10 marks
11
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.
250 words · 15 marks
12
Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.
250 words · 15 marks
13
Analyze the distinguishing features of the notion of Right to Equality in the Constitutions of the USA and India.
250 words · 15 marks
14
Explain the constitutional provisions under which Legislative Councils are established. Review the working and current status of Legislative Councils with suitable illustrations.
250 words · 15 marks
15
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.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2020

1
"There is a need for simplification of procedure for disqualification of persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act". Comment.
150 words · 10 marks
3
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.
150 words · 10 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
4
The judicial systems in India and UK seem to be converging as well as diverging in recent times. Highlight the key points of convergence and divergence between the two nations in terms of their judicial practices.
150 words · 10 marks
5
Once a Speaker, Always a Speaker' ! Do you think this 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?
150 words · 10 marks
11
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.
250 words · 15 marks
12
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.
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
13
The strength and 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.
250 words · 15 marks
14
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.
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
15
Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2019

1
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.
150 words · 10 marks
2
"The Central Administrative Tribunal which was established for redressal of griev- ances and complaints by or against central government employees, nowadays is exercising its powers as an independent judicial authority." Explain.
150 words · 10 marks
4
From the resolution of contentious issues regarding distribution of legislative powers by the courts, 'Principle of Federal Supremacy' and 'Harmonious Construction' have emerged. Explain.
150 words · 10 marks
5
What can France learn from the Indian Constitution's approach to secularism?
150 words · 10 marks
11
On what grounds a people's representative can be disqualified under the Representa- tion of Peoples Act, 1951? Also mention the remedies available to such person against his disqualification.
250 words · 15 marks
12
"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?
250 words · 15 marks
13
"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.
250 words · 15 marks
14
"The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India." Discuss.
250 words · 15 marks
15
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.
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2018

1
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?
150 words · 10 marks
3
Under what circumstances can the Financial Emergency be proclaimed by the President of India? What consequences follow when such a declaration remains in force?
150 words · 10 marks
4
Why do you think the committees are considered to be useful for parliamentary work? Discuss, in this context, the role of the Estimates Committee.
150 words · 10 marks
5
"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.
150 words · 10 marks
11
Whether the Supreme Court Judgement (July 2018) can settle the political tussle between the Lt. Governor and elected government of Delhi? Examine.
250 words · 15 marks
12
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.
250 words · 15 marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
13
India and USA are two large democracies. Examine the basic tenets on which the two political systems are based.
250 words · 15 marks
14
How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss.
250 words · 15 marks
15
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?
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2017

1
"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.
150 words · 10 marks
2
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.
150 words · 10 marks
3
"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.
150 words · 10 marks
4
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?
150 words · 10 marks
5
Discuss the role of Public Accounts Committee in establishing accountability of the government to the people.
150 words · 10 marks
11
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"?
250 words · 15 marks
12
Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to Privacy.
250 words · 15 marks
13
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.
250 words · 15 marks
14
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?
250 words · 15 marks

Polity & Constitution questions in GS Paper 2 2016

1
Discuss the essentials of the 69" Constitutional Amendment Act and anomalies, if any, that have led to recent reported conflicts between the elected representatives and the institution of the Lieutenant Governor in the administration of Delhi. Do you think that this will give rise to a new trend in the functioning of the Indian federal politics?
200 words · 12½ marks
2
To what extent is Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, bearing marginal note "Temporary provision with respect to the State of Jammu and Kashmir", temporary? Discuss the future prospects of this provision in the context of Indian polity.
200 words · 12½ marks
3
"The Indian party system is passing through a phase of transition which looks to be full of contradictions and paradoxes." Discuss.
200 words · 12½ marks
4
Exercise of CAG's powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 49 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government's policy implementation could amount to overstepping i its own (CAG) jurisdiction.
200 words · 12½ marks
5
Discuss each adjective attached to the word 'Republic' in the 'Preamble'. Are they defendable in the present circumstances?
200 words · 12½ marks · Model answer & what aspirants miss
6
What was held in the Coelho case? In this context, can you say that judicial review is of key importance amongst the basic features of the Constitution?
200 words · 12½ marks
7
Did the Government of India Act, 1935 lay down a federal constitution? Discuss.
200 words · 12½ marks

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UPSC Mains Polity & Constitution PYQs, 2016-2026

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