11 NCERT CBSE Political Science 1 Constitution Why and How

 11 NCERT CBSE Political Science 1 Constitution Why and How

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Answer Key / Self-Check Copy · Learning Mode · Generated 7/20/2026
Theme Analysis
Main ThemeThe Indian Constitution: Its Purpose, Formation, and Authority
Subject CategoryPolitical Science
Key Concepts
Functions of a ConstitutionNecessity of a ConstitutionAllocation of PowerLimitations on GovernmentSocietal AspirationsNational IdentityAuthority and Effectiveness of a ConstitutionConstituent Assembly of IndiaObjective ResolutionBorrowed Provisions
Question FocusQuestions focus on understanding the fundamental roles and characteristics of a constitution, particularly in the Indian context. Coverage includes the five primary functions, the three factors determining a constitution's effectiveness, and the historical process and influences behind the making of the Indian Constitution. Questions are designed to test both direct recall (Remember) and conceptual understanding (Understand) at a high school level.
Q1
MCQ Remember Definition of Constitution
What is generally understood by the term 'Constitution' in most countries?
A A set of laws passed by the current ruling party.
B A compact document comprising articles about the state and its governance.
C A collection of historical treaties and agreements.
D A religious text guiding moral conduct.
Hint: Think about the physical form a constitution usually takes.
Answer
In most countries, a 'Constitution' refers to a compact document containing articles that specify how the state is to be constituted and what norms it should follow.
Explanation
The text states that in most countries, 'Constitution' is a compact document that comprises a number of articles about the state, specifying how the state is to be constituted and what norms it should follow. While some countries like the UK have a series of documents, the general understanding is of a single, foundational document.
Q2
MCQ Understand Function 1: Coordination and Assurance
What is the primary function of a constitution regarding coordination among members of a society?
A To establish a single religion for all citizens.
B To provide a set of basic, legally enforceable rules for minimal coordination.
C To ensure that everyone has the same profession and hobbies.
D To allow individuals to act without any collective rules.
Hint: Consider what happens in a diverse group when rules are absent or not followed.
Answer
The first function of a constitution is to provide a set of basic rules that are publicly promulgated and legally enforceable, allowing for minimal coordination and assurance among members of a society.
Explanation
The text explains that for a diverse group to live together peacefully, they need basic rules that are publicly known and enforceable. This enables minimal coordination and provides assurance that others will follow the rules, preventing insecurity and disputes. This is identified as the first function of a constitution.
Q3
MCQ Understand Function 2: Specification of Decision-Making Powers
How does a constitution address the question of 'who gets to decide' the laws governing society?
A It allows every individual to decide their own laws independently.
B It specifies the basic allocation of power, determining how the government will be constituted.
C It mandates that a single monarch always holds all decision-making power.
D It leaves the decision of who decides to be settled by continuous public debate without a clear framework.
Hint: Think about the structure of government and how different systems answer this question.
Answer
A constitution specifies the basic allocation of power in a society, deciding who has the authority to make decisions and how the government will be constituted.
Explanation
The second function of a constitution is to specify who has the power to make decisions in a society. It decides how the government will be constituted, whether through a monarch, a single party, or democratically elected representatives, thereby providing a framework for law-making authority.
Q4
MCQ Remember Function 3: Limitations on Government Powers
What is the third function of a constitution, particularly concerning citizens' rights?
A To allow the government to arbitrarily arrest anyone.
B To set fundamental limits on what a government can impose on its citizens.
C To ensure that the government can prohibit any religion.
D To grant the government unlimited power during normal times.
Hint: Consider why citizens need protection from potential overreach by their own government.
Answer
The third function of a constitution is to set some fundamental limits on what a government can impose on its citizens, often by specifying fundamental rights.
Explanation
The text states that the third function of a constitution is to set some limits on what a government can impose on its citizens. These limits are fundamental, meaning the government may never trespass them, and are commonly achieved by specifying fundamental rights that citizens possess.
Q5
MCQ Understand Function 4: Aspirations and Goals of a Society
How do many twentieth-century constitutions, like the Indian Constitution, go beyond simply limiting government power?
A They strictly prohibit the government from taking any positive action.
B They primarily focus on maintaining the status quo and existing inequalities.
C They provide an enabling framework for the government to fulfill societal aspirations and create a just society.
D They only allocate decision-making power to a select few.
Hint: Think about what modern constitutions aim to achieve beyond just restricting power.
Answer
Many twentieth-century constitutions, including the Indian Constitution, provide an enabling framework for the government to undertake positive measures to overcome inequalities and fulfill societal aspirations, thereby creating conditions for a just society.
Explanation
The fourth function highlights that modern constitutions, especially those of the twentieth century like India's, provide an enabling framework. This allows the government to take positive steps, such as overcoming entrenched inequalities (e.g., caste discrimination in India, racial discrimination in South Africa) and promoting welfare measures, to fulfill the aspirations of society.
Q6
MCQ Understand Function 5: Fundamental Identity of a People
What does a constitution express by enabling a collective entity to agree on basic norms of governance?
A The temporary preferences of the ruling elite.
B The fundamental identity of a people, including their political and moral identity.
C A detailed economic plan for the next five years.
D A rigid set of rules that cannot be changed under any circumstances.
Hint: Consider how a shared set of fundamental rules shapes a group's sense of self and purpose.
Answer
A constitution expresses the fundamental identity of a people, allowing them to form a collective political and moral identity by agreeing to a basic set of norms about how they should be governed.
Explanation
The text describes the fifth function as expressing the fundamental identity of a people. By agreeing to a basic set of norms for governance, a collective entity forms its basic political identity. It also provides a moral identity by defining fundamental values that cannot be trespassed, shaping who 'we' are as a nation.
Q7
MCQ Remember Authority of a Constitution: Mode of Promulgation
Which factor is crucial for a constitution's effectiveness, referring to how it came into being and the authority of its crafters?
A The length of the document.
B The mode of promulgation.
C The number of pages it contains.
D The quality of the paper it is written on.
Hint: Think about the origin story of a constitution and who wrote it.
Answer
The mode of promulgation, which refers to how a constitution comes into being and the authority and credibility of those who crafted it, is crucial for its effectiveness.
Explanation
The text identifies 'Mode of promulgation' as a key factor in a constitution's effectiveness. It questions who crafted the constitution and how much authority they had, noting that successful constitutions (like India's) were created in the aftermath of popular national movements by credible leaders.
Q8
MCQ Understand Authority of a Constitution: Substantive Provisions
Why is it a hallmark of a successful constitution that its substantive provisions give everyone in society a reason to go along with them?
A It ensures that only the majority group's interests are served.
B It promotes conflict by systematically privileging some members.
C It ensures widespread allegiance by preserving the freedom and equality of all members.
D It allows a small group to subvert the constitution easily.
Hint: Consider what happens if a constitution only benefits a few or oppresses minorities.
Answer
A successful constitution's substantive provisions must give everyone a reason to go along with them by preserving the freedom and equality of all members, thereby ensuring widespread allegiance and preventing subversion.
Explanation
The text emphasizes that a successful constitution must give everyone in society some reason to go along with its provisions. If it systematically oppresses minorities or privileges some at the expense of others, it will lose allegiance. The more a constitution preserves the freedom and equality of all its members, the more likely it is to succeed and be effective.
Q9
MCQ Understand Authority of a Constitution: Balanced Institutional Design
How does 'balanced institutional design' contribute to the success of a constitution?
A It concentrates all power in a single institution to ensure efficiency.
B It fragments power across different institutions, creating checks and balances.
C It makes the constitution extremely rigid, preventing any changes.
D It allows small groups to easily subvert the constitution for their own power.
Hint: Think about how power is distributed in stable democratic systems.
Answer
Balanced institutional design contributes to a constitution's success by intelligently fragmenting power across different institutions (like the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary) to create a system of checks and balances, making it difficult for any single group to subvert the constitution.
Explanation
The text explains that well-crafted constitutions fragment power across different institutions (like Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, and independent bodies). This 'intelligent system of checks and balances' ensures that no single institution acquires a monopoly of power and can subvert the constitution, thereby facilitating its success.
Q10
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Constituent Assembly
When did the Constituent Assembly of undivided India hold its first sitting?
A 14 August 1947
B 26 January 1950
C 9 December 1946
D 26 November 1949
Hint: Recall the initial meeting date for the assembly that began drafting the constitution.
Answer
The Constituent Assembly of undivided India held its first sitting on 9 December 1946.
Explanation
The text explicitly states that the Constituent Assembly for undivided India held its first sitting on 9 December 1946. It later reassembled for divided India on 14 August 1947.
Q11
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Constituent Assembly Composition
The members of the Constituent Assembly were chosen by indirect election based on which plan?
A The Mountbatten Plan
B The Simon Commission Report
C The Cabinet Mission Plan
D The Government of India Act, 1919
Hint: Think about the British committee that proposed the structure for the assembly.
Answer
The members of the Constituent Assembly were chosen by indirect election based on the plan proposed by the Cabinet Mission.
Explanation
The text states that the Constituent Assembly was composed roughly along the lines suggested by the plan proposed by the committee of the British cabinet, known as the Cabinet Mission. Members were chosen by indirect election by the Provincial Legislative Assemblies.
Q12
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Constituent Assembly Composition
According to the Cabinet Mission Plan, what was the approximate ratio used to allot seats to Provinces and Princely States in the Constituent Assembly?
A 1:1,00,000
B 1:10,00,000
C 1:50,000
D 1:20,00,000
Hint: Recall the population-based allocation formula.
Answer
Seats were allotted proportional to population, roughly in the ratio of 1:10,00,000.
Explanation
The Cabinet Mission Plan specified that each Province and Princely State was allotted seats proportional to their respective population, roughly in the ratio of 1:10,00,000 (one seat for every ten lakh people).
Q13
MCQ Understand Making of the Indian Constitution: Representation
Despite not being elected by universal suffrage, what effort was made to make the Constituent Assembly a representative body?
A Only members from the largest political party were included.
B Members of all religions were given representation, and Scheduled Castes had significant members.
C Representation was based solely on wealth and property ownership.
D Only members elected directly by all adult citizens were permitted.
Hint: Consider the diversity of groups included in the assembly.
Answer
Although not elected by universal suffrage, the Constituent Assembly made a serious attempt to be representative by including members of all religions and having twenty-eight members from the Scheduled Castes.
Explanation
The text acknowledges that the Constituent Assembly was not elected by universal suffrage but emphasizes that a 'serious attempt to make the Assembly a representative body' was made. This included giving representation to members of all religions and having a significant number of members from the Scheduled Castes.
Q14
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Key Dates
On what date was the Indian Constitution adopted?
A 15 August 1947
B 26 January 1950
C 26 November 1949
D 9 December 1946
Hint: Recall the date when the document was formally accepted by the assembly.
Answer
The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949.
Explanation
The text clearly states, 'The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949.' This is a key date in the history of the Indian Constitution.
Q15
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Key Dates
When did the Indian Constitution come into force?
A 15 August 1947
B 26 January 1950
C 26 November 1949
D 9 December 1946
Hint: This is celebrated as Republic Day.
Answer
The Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950.
Explanation
The text states, 'The Constitution came into force on 26 January 1950.' This date marks the official beginning of the Republic of India.
Q16
MCQ Understand Making of the Indian Constitution: Principle of Deliberation
What was the significance of 'public reason' in the Constituent Assembly's deliberations?
A It meant members only advanced their personal interests.
B It emphasized discussion, reasoned argument, and giving principled reasons for positions.
C It ensured all decisions were made by a single leader without debate.
D It allowed for quick, unchallenged adoption of all provisions.
Hint: Think about the nature of a healthy democratic debate.
Answer
Public reason in the Constituent Assembly emphasized discussion, reasoned argument, and members giving principled reasons for their positions, moving away from narrow self-interest.
Explanation
The text highlights 'public reason' as crucial to the Assembly's authority. It meant members engaged in extensive discussion and reasoned argument, presenting principled reasons for their viewpoints rather than just advancing narrow self-interests. This process ensured thorough scrutiny of each clause.
Q17
MCQ Remember Making of the Indian Constitution: Objective Resolution
Who moved the Objective Resolution in 1946, which encapsulated the aspirations and values behind the Indian Constitution?
A Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
B Sardar Patel
C Jawaharlal Nehru
D Rajendra Prasad
Hint: Recall the first Prime Minister's role in setting the vision for the Constitution.
Answer
Jawaharlal Nehru moved the Objective Resolution in 1946.
Explanation
The text explicitly states that the Objective Resolution, which defined the aims of the Constituent Assembly and encapsulated the Constitution's aspirations and values, was moved by Nehru in 1946.
Q18
MCQ Understand Making of the Indian Constitution: Objective Resolution Principles
Which of the following principles was NOT a main point of the Objectives Resolution?
A India shall be an independent, sovereign, republic.
B All powers and authority of independent India shall flow from the people.
C The government shall have absolute power to discriminate against minorities.
D All people of India shall be guaranteed social, economic, and political justice.
Hint: Consider the foundational values of a democratic and just society.
Answer
The Objectives Resolution guaranteed safeguards for minorities, not absolute power to discriminate against them.
Explanation
The Objectives Resolution explicitly stated that 'The minorities, backward and tribal areas, depressed and other backward classes shall be provided adequate safeguards,' directly contradicting the idea of the government having absolute power to discriminate. The other options are core tenets of the resolution.
Q19
MCQ Remember Borrowed Provisions: British Constitution
Which of the following provisions was borrowed from the British Constitution?
A Charter of Fundamental Rights
B Directive Principles of State Policy
C First Past the Post electoral system
D Power of Judicial Review
Hint: Think about the electoral system used in India.
Answer
The First Past the Post electoral system was borrowed from the British Constitution.
Explanation
The text lists 'First Past the Post' as a provision adapted from the British Constitution, along with the Parliamentary Form of Government, the idea of the Rule of Law, the Institution of the Speaker, and the Law-making procedure.
Q20
MCQ Remember Borrowed Provisions: United States Constitution
Which key concept was adapted from the United States Constitution?
A Parliamentary Form of Government
B Idea of Residual Powers
C Power of Judicial Review and independence of the judiciary
D Principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity
Hint: Consider the role of the courts in interpreting laws and upholding the constitution.
Answer
The power of Judicial Review and the independence of the judiciary were adapted from the United States Constitution.
Explanation
The text specifies that the 'Charter of Fundamental Rights' and the 'Power of Judicial Review and independence of the judiciary' were provisions adapted from the United States Constitution.
Q21
MCQ Remember Borrowed Provisions: Irish Constitution
From which country's constitution were the Directive Principles of State Policy adapted?
A French Constitution
B Canadian Constitution
C Irish Constitution
D British Constitution
Hint: This set of principles guides state policy towards social and economic justice.
Answer
The Directive Principles of State Policy were adapted from the Irish Constitution.
Explanation
The text explicitly lists 'Directive Principles of State Policy' as a provision adapted from the Irish Constitution.
Q22
MCQ Remember Borrowed Provisions: French Constitution
The principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity were adapted from which country's constitution?
A United States Constitution
B French Constitution
C British Constitution
D Canadian Constitution
Hint: These ideals are famously associated with a major European revolution.
Answer
The principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity were adapted from the French Constitution.
Explanation
The text clearly states that the 'Principles of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity' were adapted from the French Constitution, reflecting their historical significance in democratic thought.
Q23
MCQ Remember Borrowed Provisions: Canadian Constitution
Which concept, related to a federal system with a strong central government, was adapted from the Canadian Constitution?
A First Past the Post
B A quasi-federal form of government
C Fundamental Rights
D Independence of the judiciary
Hint: Think about India's federal structure and the balance of power.
Answer
A quasi-federal form of government (a federal system with a strong central government) was adapted from the Canadian Constitution.
Explanation
The text indicates that 'A quasi-federal form of government (a federal system with a strong central government)' and 'The idea of Residual Powers' were adapted from the Canadian Constitution, reflecting India's unique federal structure.
Q24
MCQ Understand Overall Purpose of a Constitution
Why is a constitution essential for a diverse society to live together peacefully?
A It forces everyone to adopt the same cultural practices.
B It eliminates all forms of disagreement among members.
C It provides basic rules, coordination, and assurance that others will follow them.
D It allows individuals to live in complete isolation from each other.
Hint: Recall the first fundamental role of a constitution discussed in the text.
Answer
A constitution is essential for a diverse society to live together peacefully because it provides a set of basic, publicly known, and enforceable rules that allow for minimal coordination and assurance among its members.
Explanation
The text begins by illustrating how a diverse group needs basic rules that are publicly known and enforceable to achieve a minimal degree of coordination and assurance. Without such rules, individuals would be insecure, not knowing what others might do or claim, making peaceful coexistence difficult.
Q25
MCQ Understand Limitations on Government
The provision that 'The government cannot order any citizen to follow or not to follow any religion' primarily serves which function of a constitution?
A Coordination and assurance
B Specification of decision-making powers
C Limitations on the powers of government
D Enabling government to fulfill aspirations
Hint: Think about how this type of rule restricts government actions against individuals.
Answer
This provision primarily serves the function of setting limitations on the powers of government, specifically protecting the fundamental right to religious freedom.
Explanation
The example directly refers to a restriction on government action concerning individual religious freedom. This falls under the third function of a constitution, which is to set fundamental limits on what a government can impose on its citizens, often through fundamental rights.
Q26
MCQ Understand Societal Aspirations
The provision that 'The government must try to reduce inequalities in income and wealth' primarily serves which function of a constitution?
A Coordination and assurance
B Specification of decision-making powers
C Limitations on the powers of government
D Enabling the government to fulfill the aspirations of a society
Hint: Consider the positive goals a constitution might set for the state.
Answer
This provision primarily serves the function of enabling the government to fulfill the aspirations of a society and create conditions for a just society, as it directs the government to take positive welfare measures.
Explanation
This provision directs the government to take positive action to achieve a societal goal (reducing inequality). This aligns with the fourth function of a constitution, which is to provide an enabling framework for the government to do certain positive things and express the aspirations and goals of society, especially in societies with deep inequalities.
Q27
MCQ Understand Specification of Decision-Making Powers
The provision that 'The President has the power to appoint the Prime Minister' primarily serves which function of a constitution?
A Coordination and assurance
B Specification of decision-making powers and how government is constituted
C Limitations on the powers of government
D Fundamental identity of a people
Hint: Think about how roles and appointments define the governmental structure.
Answer
This provision primarily serves the function of specifying who has the power to make decisions in a society and how the government will be constituted, detailing the process of executive formation.
Explanation
This provision outlines a specific power and its allocation within the government structure, defining how a key governmental position (Prime Minister) is filled. This directly relates to the second function: specifying who has the power to make decisions and how the government will be constituted.
Q28
MCQ Understand Supremacy of Constitution
The statement 'The Constitution is the supreme law that everyone has to obey' relates to which aspect of a constitution's authority?
A Its flexibility to adapt to new circumstances.
B Its role in enabling the government to act.
C Its fundamental nature and higher authority over ordinary laws.
D Its capacity to be easily subverted by small groups.
Hint: Consider what makes a constitution the ultimate legal document.
Answer
The statement relates to the fundamental nature and higher authority of the constitution, meaning it stands above all other laws and institutions.
Explanation
The text implicitly refers to the constitution as the ultimate authority that 'constitutes government in the first place' and sets fundamental limits. The idea that it is the 'supreme law' reinforces its higher authority, which is a key aspect of its effectiveness and legitimacy.
Q29
MCQ Understand National Identity
The provision that 'Indian citizenship is not limited to people of any race, caste or religion' primarily serves which function of a constitution?
A Coordination and assurance
B Specification of decision-making powers
C Limitations on the powers of government
D Expressing the fundamental identity of a people
Hint: Think about how this defines who 'we' are as a nation.
Answer
This provision primarily serves the function of expressing the fundamental identity of a people, defining the collective political and moral identity of Indians as non-ethnic and inclusive.
Explanation
The text explains that constitutions embody conceptions of national identity, contrasting Germany's ethnic identity with India's non-ethnic citizenship. This provision directly defines the fundamental political identity of the Indian people, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination based on race, caste, or religion.
Q30
MCQ Understand Effectiveness of a Constitution
What makes the Indian Constitution a 'living document'?
A Its inability to be amended under any circumstances.
B Its perfect rigidity, resisting all change.
C Its ability to strike a balance between preserving core values and adapting to new circumstances.
D Its requirement for a full-fledged referendum for every change.
Hint: Consider how a constitution remains relevant over time without losing its essence.
Answer
The Indian Constitution is considered a 'living document' because it strikes the right balance between preserving core values and allowing enough flexibility to adapt to changing needs and circumstances.
Explanation
The text refers to the Indian Constitution as a 'living document' because it achieves a balance between being authoritative (preserving core values) and being flexible enough to adapt to new circumstances. This balance ensures its survival and continued relevance, preventing it from breaking under the weight of change or being too easily subverted.
Q31
MCQ Understand Role of Nationalist Movement
How did the nationalist movement influence the making of the Indian Constitution?
A It created a complete blueprint for the constitution that the Assembly merely copied.
B It ensured that the Assembly only adopted principles from one foreign constitution.
C It provided a background consensus on the main principles and values the Constitution should enshrine.
D It demanded a constitution that would only serve the interests of the majority community.
Hint: Think about the ideals and debates that preceded independence.
Answer
The nationalist movement provided a crucial background consensus on the main principles and values, such as equality, liberty, and democracy, that the Constitution should enshrine, giving the Constituent Assembly a solid foundation.
Explanation
The text states that 'no constitution is simply a product of the Assembly that produces it.' The Constituent Assembly functioned effectively because there was a 'background consensus on the main principles the Constitution should enshrine,' which were forged during the long struggle for freedom and embodied in the Objective Resolution.
Q32
MCQ Remember Institutional Arrangements
The Indian Constitution adopted which governmental form to distribute powers between the legislature and the executive?
A Presidential form
B Monarchical form
C Parliamentary form
D Dictatorial form
Hint: Consider the structure where the executive is accountable to the legislature.
Answer
The Indian Constitution adopted the parliamentary form of government to distribute governmental powers between the legislature and the executive.
Explanation
The text mentions that the Constituent Assembly spent a lot of time on evolving the right balance among institutions, which 'led to the adoption of the parliamentary form and the federal arrangement,' distributing powers between the legislature and the executive.
Q33
MCQ Understand Checks and Balances
How does the horizontal fragmentation of power across institutions like the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary in India contribute to constitutional stability?
A It allows one institution to dominate all others, ensuring swift decisions.
B It prevents any single group from subverting the constitution by creating checks on transgressions.
C It makes the government highly inefficient and prone to deadlock.
D It concentrates all decision-making power in the hands of the President.
Hint: Think about how different branches of government keep each other in line.
Answer
Horizontal fragmentation of power ensures that even if one institution attempts to subvert the Constitution, others can check its transgressions, thereby preventing any single group from gaining monopoly power and contributing to constitutional stability.
Explanation
The text explains that 'well crafted constitutions fragment power in society intelligently so that no single group can subvert the constitution.' India's horizontal fragmentation across Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary ensures 'even if one institution wants to subvert the Constitution, others can check its transgressions,' facilitating its success.
Q34
MCQ Understand Borrowing vs. Imitation
When the framers of the Indian Constitution borrowed provisions from other countries, what was their approach?
A Slavish imitation of foreign models without consideration for Indian needs.
B Complete rejection of all foreign constitutional ideas.
C Adapting provisions and defending them on grounds of suitability to Indian problems and aspirations.
D Only borrowing from countries with similar colonial histories.
Hint: Consider Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's perspective on adapting existing ideas.
Answer
The framers adapted provisions from other countries, carefully defending each on the grounds that it was suited to Indian problems and aspirations, rather than slavishly imitating foreign models.
Explanation
The text clarifies that borrowing ideas was 'not slavish imitation.' Instead, 'Each provision of the Constitution had to be defended on grounds that it was suited to Indian problems and aspirations,' demonstrating a thoughtful and adaptive approach by the Constituent Assembly.
Q35
MCQ Remember Composition of Constituent Assembly
After the Partition under the plan of 3 June 1947, how many members were in the Constituent Assembly?
A 389
B 299
C 284
D 93
Hint: Recall the reduction in members due to the division of India.
Answer
After the Partition, the number of members in the Constituent Assembly was reduced to 299.
Explanation
The text states that 'As a consequence of the Partition under the plan of 3 June 1947 those members who were elected from territories which fell under Pakistan ceased to be members of the Constituent Assembly. The number of members in the Assembly was reduced to 299.'
Q36
MCQ Remember Deliberation Process
Which significant provision of the Constitution was passed without virtually any debate in the Constituent Assembly?
A The powers of the judiciary
B The relationship between States and the centre
C The introduction of universal suffrage
D Property rights
Hint: Think about a fundamental democratic right that was universally accepted.
Answer
The introduction of universal suffrage was the only provision passed without virtually any debate in the Constituent Assembly.
Explanation
The text highlights this as a testament to the democratic commitment of the Assembly: 'Only one provision of the Constitution was passed without virtually any debate: the introduction of universal suffrage (meaning that all citizens reaching a certain age, would be entitled to be voters irrespective of religion, caste, education, gender or income).'
Q37
MCQ Understand Constitutional Stability
What is the risk of a constitution being 'too rigid'?
A It will give too much security and predictability.
B It is likely to break under the weight of change.
C It will adapt too easily to changing needs.
D It will lead to excessive flexibility in its operations.
Hint: Consider the consequences of a system that cannot evolve.
Answer
A constitution that is too rigid is likely to break under the weight of change because it cannot adapt to evolving societal needs and circumstances.
Explanation
The text explains the importance of striking a balance: 'Too rigid a constitution is likely to break under the weight of change; a constitution that is, on the other hand, too flexible, will give no security, predictability or identity to a people.' This highlights the danger of excessive rigidity.
Q38
MCQ Understand Credibility of Constitution Makers
Why did the Indian Constitution draw enormous legitimacy from its framers?
A They were appointed by a foreign power.
B They enjoyed immense public credibility and had the capacity to negotiate.
C They ensured the constitution served their personal interests.
D They avoided any form of public debate or discussion.
Hint: Think about the trust and respect the leaders commanded among the people.
Answer
The Indian Constitution drew enormous legitimacy from its framers because they enjoyed immense public credibility, had the capacity to negotiate, commanded the respect of a wide cross-section of society, and convinced people the constitution was not for personal aggrandisement.
Explanation
The text attributes the success of constitutions like India's to being 'drawn up by people who enjoyed immense public credibility, who had the capacity to negotiate and command the respect of a wide cross-section of society, and who were able to convince the people that the constitution was not an instrument for the aggrandisement of their personal power.'
Q39
MCQ Remember Duration of Constituent Assembly
The Constituent Assembly met for how many days, spread over what duration?
A 100 days, spread over 1 year
B 166 days, spread over two years and eleven months
C 200 days, spread over 3 years
D 50 days, spread over 6 months
Hint: Recall the approximate time taken to draft the Indian Constitution.
Answer
The Constituent Assembly met for one hundred and sixty six days, spread over two years and eleven months.
Explanation
The text provides this specific detail: 'The Assembly met for one hundred and sixty six days, spread over two years and eleven months. Its sessions were open to the press and the public alike.'
Q40
MCQ Understand Comparison of Constitutions
How does the Indian Constitution's conception of national identity differ from that of the German constitution mentioned in the text?
A The Indian Constitution bases identity solely on a single religion, while German identity is purely economic.
B The German constitution was constituted by being ethnically German, while the Indian Constitution does not make ethnic identity a criterion for citizenship.
C Both constitutions base their national identity on a common language.
D The Indian Constitution is more rigid, while the German constitution is highly flexible.
Hint: Think about how citizenship is defined in different national contexts.
Answer
The text states that German identity was constituted by being ethnically German, and its constitution gave expression to this. In contrast, the Indian Constitution does not make ethnic identity a criterion for citizenship, reflecting a more inclusive national identity.
Explanation
The text uses the example of German identity being 'constituted by being ethnically German' and contrasting it with the Indian Constitution, which 'does not make ethnic identity a criterion for citizenship.' This highlights a key difference in how national identity is embodied in these constitutions.
Q41
MCQ Understand Role of the Preamble and Fundamental Rights
The enabling provisions of the Indian Constitution, which support positive welfare measures, find support in which parts of the Constitution?
A Only in the detailed procedural rules.
B The Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy.
C Exclusively in the emergency provisions.
D Only in the sections dealing with military powers.
Hint: Consider the aspirational and guiding parts of the constitution.
Answer
The enabling provisions of the Indian Constitution, which empower the government to take positive welfare measures, are supported by the Preamble, found in the section on Fundamental Rights, and enjoined by the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Explanation
The text states that 'such enabling provisions have the support of the Preamble to our Constitution, and these provisions are found in the section on Fundamental Rights. The Directive Principles of State of Policy also enjoin government to fulfil certain aspirations of the people.' This shows a multi-faceted constitutional backing for positive welfare actions.
Q42
MCQ Remember Key Figures in Constituent Assembly
Which of these leaders did NOT typically chair one of the eight major Committees of the Constituent Assembly?
A Jawaharlal Nehru
B Mahatma Gandhi
C Sardar Patel
D Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
Hint: Recall the prominent political leaders actively involved in drafting the constitution.
Answer
Mahatma Gandhi, while a spiritual leader, was not a formal member or committee chair in the Constituent Assembly.
Explanation
The text mentions that 'Usually, Jawaharlal Nehru, Rajendra Prasad, Sardar Patel or B.R. Ambedkar chaired these Committees.' Mahatma Gandhi, though a guiding force for the nationalist movement, was not a member of the Constituent Assembly itself.
Q43
MCQ Understand Purpose of Basic Rules
In the absence of basic rules, why would every individual in a group feel insecure?
A Because they would have too much freedom.
B Because they would not know what others might do or claim rights over.
C Because everyone would agree on everything, leading to boredom.
D Because there would be no property to own.
Hint: Think about the chaos that might ensue without any established norms.
Answer
In the absence of basic rules, individuals would feel insecure because they would lack knowledge about others' potential actions or claims, leading to unpredictability and conflict.
Explanation
The text explains this directly: 'Think of what would happen in the absence of some basic rules. Every individual would be insecure simply because they would not know what members of this group could do to each other, who could claim rights over what.'
Q44
MCQ Understand Enforceability of Rules
Why must constitutional rules not only be known but also enforceable?
A To allow individuals to ignore them if they wish.
B To ensure that only a few people follow them.
C To provide assurance that others will follow them, with punishment for non-compliance.
D To keep the rules a secret from most citizens.
Hint: Consider what motivates people to obey laws.
Answer
Rules must be enforceable to provide assurance to everyone that others will follow them, as non-compliance would lead to punishment, thus giving reason for individuals to abide by them.
Explanation
The text emphasizes: 'But these rules must not only be known, they must also be enforceable. If citizens have no assurance that others will follow these rules, they will themselves have no reason to follow these rules. Saying that the rules are legally enforceable gives an assurance to everybody that others will follow these, for if they do not do so, they will be punished.'
Q45
MCQ Understand Nature of a Constitution
Some countries, like the United Kingdom, do not have one single document called the Constitution. What do they have instead?
A No constitution at all.
B A series of documents and decisions that, taken collectively, are referred to as the constitution.
C Only unwritten traditions and customs.
D A constitution written by the monarch alone.
Hint: Think about countries with 'unwritten' constitutions.
Answer
Countries like the United Kingdom have a series of documents and decisions that, taken collectively, are referred to as their constitution, rather than a single compact document.
Explanation
The text clarifies: 'But some countries, the United Kingdom for instance, do not have one single document that can be called the Constitution. Rather they have a series of documents and decisions that, taken collectively, are referred to as the constitution.' This broadens the definition of a constitution beyond a single written text.
Q46
MCQ Understand Constitutional Legitimacy
The Indian Constitution was never subjected to a full-fledged referendum, yet it carried enormous public authority. Why?
A It was imposed by military force.
B It had the consensus and backing of popular leaders, and people adopted it by abiding by its provisions.
C It was drafted by foreign experts.
D It contained no provisions that could cause disagreement.
Hint: Consider the popular support and acceptance it gained over time.
Answer
The Indian Constitution carried enormous public authority because it had the consensus and backing of popular leaders who enjoyed immense public credibility, and the people adopted it as their own by abiding by its provisions.
Explanation
The text explains, 'The Indian Constitution was never subjected to such a referendum, but nevertheless carried enormous public authority, because it had the consensus and backing of leaders who were themselves popular. Although the Constitution itself was not subjected to a referendum, the people adopted it as their own by abiding by its provisions.'
Q47
MCQ Understand Constitutional Design Principles
What does Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's quote, 'The only new things, if there can be any, in a Constitution framed so late in the day are the variations made to remove the faults and to accommodate it to the needs of the country,' imply about the Indian Constitution's originality?
A It was completely unoriginal, a mere copy of other constitutions.
B Its originality lay in its thoughtful adaptation and customization of existing ideas to suit India's unique needs.
C It contained entirely new and never-before-seen constitutional principles.
D It was designed to ignore the needs of the country.
Hint: Consider the difference between inventing something entirely new and skillfully modifying existing elements.
Answer
Ambedkar's quote implies that the Indian Constitution's originality stemmed not from inventing entirely new principles, but from its intelligent and thoughtful adaptation and customization of existing constitutional ideas to address and accommodate India's specific needs and challenges.
Explanation
Ambedkar's statement emphasizes that true 'newness' in a constitution framed late in history comes from 'variations made to remove the faults and to accommodate it to the needs of the country.' This supports the idea that the Indian Constitution's strength and originality came from its judicious selection, modification, and integration of best practices from around the world to suit India's unique context, rather than a 'slavish imitation.'
Q48
MCQ Understand Consensus in Constitution Making
Despite significant disagreements among members of the Constituent Assembly on many issues, what was a common underlying approach to resolving these differences?
A Immediate recourse to voting without discussion.
B Prioritizing the interests of the most powerful groups.
C An attempt to reach consensus, believing provisions agreed to by all would not be detrimental to any particular interests.
D Ignoring all disagreements to expedite the process.
Hint: Think about the spirit of cooperation and inclusivity that guided the process.
Answer
The common approach was to attempt to reach consensus, based on the belief that provisions agreed to by all would not be detrimental to any particular interests, ensuring broad acceptance.
Explanation
The text notes that 'There were often disagreements amongst members, but few of these disagreements could be traced to members protecting their own interests.' It then states, 'Usually an attempt was made to reach a consensus with the belief that provisions agreed to by all, would not be detrimental to any particular interests.'
Q49
MCQ Remember Federal Arrangement
Besides the parliamentary form, what other governmental arrangement was adopted to distribute powers between the States and the central government?
A Unitary system
B Confederal system
C Federal arrangement
D Monarchical system
Hint: Think about the division of power between national and regional governments.
Answer
The federal arrangement was adopted to distribute governmental powers between the States and the central government.
Explanation
The text states that the Constituent Assembly's efforts 'led to the adoption of the parliamentary form and the federal arrangement, which would distribute governmental powers between the legislature and the executive on the one hand and between the States and the central government on the other hand.'
Q50
MCQ Understand Purpose of Constitutional Provisions
The Preamble to the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy collectively work to achieve which function of a constitution?
A Solely limiting government power without any positive goals.
B Ensuring only the majority's will is enforced.
C Enabling the government to fulfill societal aspirations and create conditions for a just society.
D Defining an ethnic identity for the nation.
Hint: Consider the aspirational and directive nature of these parts of the constitution.
Answer
These constitutional elements collectively work to enable the government to fulfill the aspirations of society and create conditions for a just society, guiding it towards positive welfare measures and social justice.
Explanation
The text highlights that the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy support the 'enabling provisions' of the Constitution. These provisions empower the government to take positive steps, overcome inequalities, and fulfill societal aspirations, aligning with the fourth function of a constitution to create a just society.

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