Previous Year Paper

UGC NET Paper 2: Law 14th Dec 2023 Shift 2 (Previous Year Paper)

Held in 2023

100 questions120 minutes
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Question 1

As per the provisions of the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, a bachelor male adopts a child. He subsequently marries a woman. Such woman shall: 

  1. AOption (a)

    be the adoptive mother of that adopted child

  2. BOption (b)

    be the step mother of that adopted child

  3. COption (c)

    be the adoptive mother of that child if the child accepts her as mother

  4. DOption (d)

    be the adoptive mother of that child at her discretion

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

be the step mother of that adopted child

Why this answer is correct

Correct Option: Option 2, "be the step mother of that adopted child"

HintAccording to the Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, when a bachelor male adopts a child and then marries, his wife does not automatically become the adoptive mother of the child. Instead, she is considered the stepmother of the adopted child. The legal relationship between the child and the woman is that of a stepchild and stepmother, not that of an adoptive child and adoptive mother.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Option 1: "be the adoptive mother of that adopted child" - This is incorrect because the marriage of the woman to the adoptive father does not change her legal status to that of an adoptive mother. Adoption laws specify who can be considered an adoptive parent, and simply marrying an adoptive father does not meet these criteria.

Option 3: "be the adoptive mother of that child if the child accepts her as mother" - This option is incorrect because the legal status of being an adoptive mother is not contingent upon the child's acceptance. The process of adoption and the legal status it confers are governed by specific laws and procedures, not by the personal feelings or acceptance of the child.

Option 4: "be the adoptive mother of that child at her discretion" - This is incorrect because the decision for a woman to become an adoptive mother involves legal procedures and cannot be determined solely at her discretion. Adoption is a legal process that requires adherence to specific laws and regulations, not just personal choice.

Additional Information

  • The Hindu Adoption and Maintenance Act, 1956, sets forth specific criteria and procedures for adoption within the Hindu community. It outlines who can adopt, who can be adopted, and the legal effects of adoption.
  • It's important to understand that adoption and the assignment of parental roles within the context of this law are subject to legal definitions and procedures, rather than personal or familial agreements.

Question 2

A Hindu male having a Hindu wife, changed his religion and adopts Islam in 2012. He marries again to a Muslim girl in 2013. In 2014, his Hindu wife died. His second marriage is: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Valid as he married after conversion to Islam which permits bigamy

  2. BOption (b)

    Valid as his wife died after his marriage to Muslim girl

  3. COption (c)

    Void as he has not taken the consent of his Hindu wife 

  4. DOption (d)

    Void as his second marriage amounts to bigamy

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Void as his second marriage amounts to bigamy

Why this answer is correct

Correct Option: Void as his second marriage amounts to bigamy

Key Points

Under Indian law, specifically the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, bigamy is illegal for Hindus. A Hindu male converting to Islam and marrying again without legally dissolving his first marriage is committing bigamy. The law does not recognize the second marriage as valid if the first marriage is still in existence, regardless of the change in religion.

Incorrect Options:

Valid as he married after conversion to Islam which permits bigamy: This option is incorrect because, despite his conversion to Islam, the Indian legal framework does not allow a person to escape obligations and laws applicable to their original religion by simply changing their religion. The act of bigamy is evaluated based on the fact that he was already married under the Hindu law, which continues to hold him accountable.

Valid as his wife died after his marriage to Muslim girl: This option is incorrect because the validity of the second marriage is determined at the time it was conducted, not by subsequent events. At the time of his second marriage, his first wife was still alive, and he had not legally dissolved his first marriage, making the second marriage invalid.

Void as he has not taken the consent of his Hindu wife: While it's true that the consent of the first wife could be a moral or ethical consideration, the legal issue at hand is the act of bigamy itself. The absence of the first wife's consent is not the primary legal reason for the second marriage being void; rather, it is the existence of the first marriage that invalidates the second one.

Question 3

Which one of the following is not a ground for divorce under section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Respondent is convicted for committing an offence

  2. BOption (b)

    Respondent has renounced the world by entering any religious order 

  3. COption (c)

    Respondent has ceased to be a Hindu by conversion to another religion. 

  4. DOption (d)

    Respondent has not been heard of as being alive for a period of seven years

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Respondent is convicted for committing an offence

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

The statement that "Respondent is convicted for committing an offence" is not a ground for divorce under section 13 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This act specifies various grounds on which a spouse can seek divorce, but being convicted for a crime is not among them. The law focuses more on personal and matrimonial circumstances rather than criminal convictions unrelated to the marriage itself.

Overview of Other Options (Incorrect Answers):

Renouncement of the World: If a spouse has renounced the world by entering any religious order, it is considered a valid ground for divorce under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This act considers such renouncement as an act of voluntarily giving up the marital relationship and worldly affairs, thus justifying a divorce.

Conversion to Another Religion: Ceasing to be a Hindu by conversion to another religion is also a recognized ground for divorce. The act acknowledges that conversion can fundamentally alter the religious compatibility between spouses, thereby serving as a legitimate reason for dissolution of the marriage.

Not Heard of Being Alive: If a spouse has not been heard of as being alive for a period of seven years, it is presumed that the person is dead, and the other spouse has the right to seek a divorce. This provision ensures that individuals are not bound indefinitely to a marriage where there is no evidence of the other spouse's existence or well-being.

By examining the specific grounds for divorce outlined in the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, it's clear that criminal convictions of a spouse do not directly impact the marital bond in the context of divorce proceedings under this legislation.

Question 4

A Muslim can make a bequest of his property without the consent of heirs to the extent of: 

  1. AOption (a)

    half of his property

  2. BOption (b)

    whole of his property

  3. COption (c)

    one-fourth of his property 

  4. DOption (d)

    one-third of his property

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

one-third of his property

Why this answer is correct

Correct Answer: One-third of his property

Hint

Overview of Correct Option:

In Islamic law, a Muslim is permitted to make a bequest, which is a testamentary disposition of property, of up to one-third of their total assets without the consent of their heirs. This allowance is rooted in Hadith and is widely accepted across different Islamic schools of thought. It provides a way for Muslims to contribute to charitable causes, or to provide for relatives and individuals who are not entitled to inherit under the strict rules of Islamic inheritance.

Incorrect Options Explained:

Half of his property: This is incorrect because Islamic law specifically limits the bequest that can be made without heir consent to one-third. This limitation is designed to protect the rights of the heirs and ensure that the majority of a deceased's estate passes to them according to the fixed shares specified in Islamic law.

Whole of his property: This option is incorrect for similar reasons. Islamic law places great emphasis on the distribution of a deceased's estate among their heirs according to predetermined shares. Allowing a bequest of the whole property without the heirs' consent would contravene these principles.

One-fourth of his property: Although this would be within the permissible limit, it is not the specified maximum allowance for bequests without heir consent. The specific allowance is up to one-third, making this option incorrect.

Key Points

  • The one-third rule serves to balance between a person's autonomy over their property and the rights of the heirs.
  • The rule is a reflection of the Islamic principle of moderation and consideration for the rights and welfare of all involved parties.
  • This allowance for a bequest up to one-third of the estate without the heirs' consent is one of the unique features of Islamic inheritance law, distinguishing it from other legal systems.

Question 5

Polluter pays principle is also known as _____.

  1. AOption (a)

    Principle of Good Neighbourliness

  2. BOption (b)

    Principle of Common Responsibility

  3. COption (c)

    Principle of Public Liability

  4. DOption (d)

    Principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

The Principle of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) extends the responsibility of the producers beyond the manufacturing process to the post-consumer stage of a product's life cycle. This includes the collection, recycling, and disposal of the product, ensuring that the environmental impact is minimized. EPR encourages producers to design products with minimal environmental impacts and take back used products for recycling or proper disposal, effectively implementing the polluter pays principle by making the producer responsible for the environmental costs.

Incorrect Options:

Principle of Good Neighbourliness: This principle generally relates to international relations and the conduct of states towards each other, focusing on mutual respect and non-interference. It does not directly relate to environmental policy or the responsibility for pollution.

Principle of Common Responsibility: While this principle emphasizes the shared responsibility of all stakeholders (including countries, corporations, and individuals) in addressing global challenges, such as environmental protection, it is broader and less specific about the producer's responsibility for managing the lifecycle of products.

Principle of Public Liability: This principle is related to holding entities liable for causing harm or damage to the public or the environment, often through legal mechanisms. It does not specifically address the responsibility of producers for the environmental impacts of their products from production to disposal.

Additional Information

  • EPR is a specific application of the polluter pays principle, focusing on the producer's role in managing the environmental impact of their products.
  • The other options, while related to environmental protection and responsibility, do not directly embody the concept of the producer's responsibility for the lifecycle impacts of their products as EPR does.

Question 6

Which Article in the Constitution of India established National Commission for the Scheduled Castes? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Art. 335

  2. BOption (b)

    Art. 338

  3. COption (c)

    Art. 341

  4. DOption (d)

    Art. 342A

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Art. 338

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Art. 338 establishes the National Commission for the Scheduled Castes. 

Art. 338:

  • It provides for the constitution of a National Commission for the Scheduled Castes.
  • The main function of this commission is to investigate and monitor all matters relating to the safeguards provided for the Scheduled Castes under the Constitution.
  • It also advises the government on the planning process of socio-economic development of the Scheduled Castes and evaluates their progress.

Additional Information

Art. 335 relates to the claims of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to services and posts.

  • It states that the claims of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes shall be taken into consideration, consistently with the maintenance of efficiency of administration, in the making of appointments to services and posts in connection with the affairs of the Union or of a State.

Art. 341 allows the President to specify the castes, races, or tribes or parts of or groups within castes, races, or tribes which shall be deemed to be Scheduled Castes in relation to this State or Union territory.

  • This provides the legal basis for identifying beneficiary communities to be considered as Scheduled Castes.

Art. 342A deals with the socially and educationally backward classes.

  • It was introduced by the 102nd Amendment Act of 2018 to give constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes.
  • This article is about the powers, authority, and responsibilities of the National Commission for Backward Classes, not specifically related to Scheduled Castes.

Question 7

In which country the appointment of judges are made through the parliament? 

  1. AOption (a)

    UK

  2. BOption (b)

    USA

  3. COption (c)

    India

  4. DOption (d)

    All the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

USA

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

USA (Correct Answer)

In the United States, the appointment of federal judges, including Supreme Court justices, is made by the President and confirmed by the Senate. This process involves both the executive and legislative branches of government, highlighting the role of the Parliament (Congress in the USA) in the appointment process.

UK (Incorrect)

In the United Kingdom, the appointment of judges is not directly made through the Parliament. The Judicial Appointments Commission (JAC), an independent commission, recommends appointments to the judiciary. The Lord Chancellor then either accepts or rejects these recommendations but does not make appointments directly. The role of Parliament is more indirect compared to the process in the USA.

India (Incorrect)

In India, judges of the Supreme Court and the High Courts are appointed by the President of India. The appointments are made based on recommendations from the Collegium System, which consists of the Chief Justice of India and a forum of the senior most judges. Unlike the USA, the Parliament of India does not play a direct role in the appointment of judges.

All the above (Incorrect)

This option is incorrect because, as explained, only in the USA does the Parliament (Congress) play a direct role in the appointment of judges through the President's nomination and Senate confirmation process. The UK and India have different mechanisms for judicial appointments that do not involve their parliaments in a similar manner.

Question 8

With respect to which of the following kind of IPR, there exists a statutory ban for assignment? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Patents

  2. BOption (b)

    Trademarks

  3. COption (c)

    Geographical Indication

  4. DOption (d)

    Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Geographical Indication

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Geographical Indication

Explanation: A Geographical Indication (GI) is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, a reputation, or characteristics that are essentially attributable to that origin. The purpose of a GI is to ensure that only those registered as authorized users are allowed to use the popular product name. This is a form of IPR designed to protect the unique qualities and heritage of products from specific regions. The statutory ban on the assignment of GIs is to prevent the misuse or misrepresentation of the GI, ensuring that the product's reputation remains linked to its geographical origin and cannot be commercially exploited by entities outside that region.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

1) Patents: Patents are a form of intellectual property protection that grant the patent holder exclusive rights to use, make, sell, and distribute their invention for a limited period, typically 20 years. Patents can be assigned and transferred, allowing the original inventor to sell the patent to another party, who then gains the rights to the invention.

2) Trademarks: Trademarks protect symbols, names, and slogans used to identify goods or services. The ownership of a trademark can be transferred or assigned from one party to another. This means that the rights to use a specific mark can be sold or passed on, which is common in business acquisitions and mergers.

4) Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits: These are protected under intellectual property law to safeguard the design of integrated circuits. Like patents and trademarks, the rights to a layout design can be assigned to another party, allowing them to use or commercialize the design under certain conditions.

In summary, while patents, trademarks, and layout designs of integrated circuits can be assigned or transferred, geographical indications cannot be assigned because they are intrinsically linked to a specific region's characteristics and heritage, which cannot be transferred to another party or location.

Question 9

Which among the following countries do not follow the scheme of distribution of power?  

  1. AOption (a)

    India

  2. BOption (b)

    USA

  3. COption (c)

    UK

  4. DOption (d)

    Canada

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

UK

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: UK

Explanation of Correct Answer:

The United Kingdom does not follow a codified scheme of distribution of power like other federal countries. Instead, it has a unitary system of government, albeit with devolved powers to Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and London. However, the central government retains the ultimate authority, and these devolved powers can theoretically be revoked.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

India:

India follows a federal structure of governance with a clear distribution of powers between the Central and State governments, outlined in its Constitution. This includes legislative, executive, and judicial powers.

USA:

The United States of America has a federal system of government where power is divided between the federal government and the states, as outlined in the Constitution. This includes distinct legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Canada:

Canada operates under a federal system where powers are distributed between the federal government and the provinces. This distribution is defined in the Constitution Act of 1867, covering areas such as education, health, and transportation.

Additional InformationThe UK's lack of a codified constitution and a unitary system distinguishes it from the other options, which have clear, constitutionally defined federal structures with distributed powers among various levels of government.

Question 10

Salmond distinguishes between 'possession in fact' and 'possession in law'. He treated possession in fact as _____. 

  1. AOption (a)

    A  fallacy

  2. BOption (b)

    A fiction

  3. COption (c)

    A conception

  4. DOption (d)

    A right

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A conception

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is "A conception"

 

Key Points 

  • Salmond distinguishes between 'possession in fact' and 'possession in law'. He treated possession in fact as a "conception".
  • Possession in fact refers to the actual control or physical holding of an object or property. It is the empirical reality of having physical control over something.
  • Possession in law, on the other hand, refers to the legal recognition of possession, which might not always coincide with physical control. It involves the right to possess something in the eyes of the law, even if one is not currently in physical control of it.
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Overview of Incorrect Options:

A fallacy: This term implies a mistaken belief, especially one based on unsound arguments. Salmond's treatment of possession in fact does not categorize it as a mistaken belief but as a concept reflecting the actual control over something. Therefore, calling it a fallacy would misrepresent his view.

A fiction: Legal fiction refers to a fact assumed or created by courts which is then used as a basis for making legal decisions. While legal concepts can sometimes be considered fictions for the sake of argument or jurisdiction, Salmondundefineds categorization of possession in fact as a conception is grounded in the tangible, physical control of property, making it more than just a legal construct or fiction.

A right: Rights pertain to entitlements or permissions within a legal or moral framework. While possession in fact can lead to certain rights (such as the right to use the property), the term itself refers more directly to the actual state of holding or controlling something, rather than the entitlements that may come with it. Salmond's distinction is focused on the nature of possession rather than the rights it may confer.

Conclusion:

Understanding Salmond's distinction between possession in fact and possession in law is crucial for grasping foundational concepts in property law. By categorizing possession in fact as a conception, Salmond emphasizes the tangible, empirical aspect of possession, which is distinct from the legal recognition or rights that may or may not accompany such physical control.

Question 11

American realist Judge Jerome Frank described his own attitude (towards realism) as one of: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Decisive cynicism

  2. BOption (b)

    Constructive skepticism

  3. COption (c)

    Positive evangelism

  4. DOption (d)

    Radical objectivity

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Constructive skepticism

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Constructive skepticism

Explanation: Jerome Frank, a leading figure in the American legal realism movement, advocated for a view that questioned traditional legal doctrines and approaches, but did so in a way that aimed to improve and reform the legal system rather than dismiss it outright. His attitude of "constructive skepticism" reflects this balance between critique and reform, emphasizing a careful, questioning approach towards legal realism that seeks to build and enhance, rather than merely criticize.

Incorrect Options:

Decisive cynicism: This option suggests a more negative and possibly dismissive stance towards the subject matter. Cynicism implies a distrustful view that may not be conducive to reform or improvement. Jerome Frank undefineds approach, while critical, was not dismissive but aimed at constructive changes.

Positive evangelism: This option implies an uncritically enthusiastic support for realism, akin to preaching its virtues without acknowledging its limitations or the need for critical examination. Frank's perspective was more nuanced, advocating for a critical yet optimistic approach to legal realism.

Radical objectivity: While objectivity is important in legal analysis, describing Frank undefineds attitude as "radical objectivity" misses the mark. His approach was not about being radically objective but rather skeptically engaging with legal realism to uncover and address its shortcomings and potentials. Radical objectivity suggests a level of detachment that doesn't accurately reflect Frank's engaged and reform-minded stance.

Question 12

The term preferred by Bentham to explain his imperative concept of a law is: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Firman

  2. BOption (b)

    Mandate

  3. COption (c)

    Dictate 

  4. DOption (d)

    Fiat

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Mandate

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Mandate

Explanation: Jeremy Bentham, a prominent figure in the development of utilitarianism, preferred the term "mandate" to describe his concept of an imperative law. In his view, laws are commands or mandates issued by a sovereign to the people, outlining what actions are obligatory, permitted, or forbidden. Bentham's legal theory emphasizes that laws function as directives from an authority, aiming to guide human behavior in a way that maximizes overall happiness or utility.

Other Options:

Firman: Incorrect because a Firman is historically a decree or an order issued by a sovereign or a ruler, especially in the Ottoman Empire or Persia. While it does imply a command, it is not the term Bentham used to describe his concept of law.

Dictate: Incorrect although it conveys a sense of command or order, "dictate" was not the specific term Bentham chose to encapsulate his understanding of law. Dictate can imply a more unilateral and possibly oppressive form of command, which doesn't fully capture Bentham's nuanced view on laws as tools for maximizing utility.

Fiat: Incorrect because "fiat" refers to an authoritative or arbitrary order, often without consultation or consideration of the wider implications. While laws can be seen as authoritative orders, Bentham's use of "mandate" suggests a more structured and reasoned approach to law-making, rooted in the principle of maximizing happiness.

Question 13

"Moral Right" is a concept prevailing in: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Industrial Design

  2. BOption (b)

    Geographical Indication

  3. COption (c)

    Trademark

  4. DOption (d)

    Copyright

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Copyright

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Copyright

Explanation: Moral rights protect the personal and reputational value of a work for its creator. These rights allow the creator to take certain actions to preserve the integrity and attribution of the work, such as the right to be recognized as the author and to object to any distortion, mutilation, or other modification of the work that would be prejudicial to the author's honor or reputation.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Industrial Design: This pertains to the creation of a new and original design that is applied to the manufacture of a product, giving it a unique appearance. It does not involve moral rights, which are more concerned with the protection of the creator's personal connection to their work.

Geographical Indication: This is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities, reputation, or characteristics inherent to that location. It is more about protecting the reputation of a region's products than an individual creator's moral rights.

Trademark: Trademarks protect symbols, names, and slogans used to identify goods and services. The focus here is on protecting the brand identity and preventing consumer confusion, rather than safeguarding the creator's personal rights in their work.

Question 14

Which country does not provide any written constitutional guarantee of fundamental freedoms? 

  1. AOption (a)

    UK

  2. BOption (b)

    UK and USA

  3. COption (c)

    UK and India

  4. DOption (d)

    USA

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

UK

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: UK

The United Kingdom does not have a single, written constitution (unlike many other countries). Instead, its constitutional framework is based on statute law (laws passed by the legislature), common law (laws established through court judgments), and historical documents (such as the Magna Carta). The UK relies on these sources, along with parliamentary conventions, to protect fundamental freedoms, but there is no single document that guarantees these rights comprehensively.

Incorrect Options:

UK and USA: This option is incorrect because the USA has a written constitution that explicitly guarantees fundamental freedoms through its Bill of Rights and subsequent amendments. The First Amendment, for example, guarantees freedoms concerning religion, expression, assembly, and the right to petition.

UK and India: This option is incorrect because India has a written constitution that explicitly guarantees fundamental freedoms to its citizens. Part III of the Indian Constitution, titled "Fundamental Rights," includes a wide range of rights such as the right to equality, the right to freedom of speech and expression, and the right to constitutional remedies for the protection of civil rights.

USA: This option is incorrect as mentioned, the United States has a written constitution that provides a clear and explicit guarantee of fundamental freedoms to its citizens. The US Constitution, particularly through its amendments, outlines these rights in detail, making it a cornerstone of American democracy and law.

In summary, the UK is unique among the options provided in that it does not have a single, consolidated written constitution that guarantees fundamental freedoms. Instead, it relies on a combination of statutes, common laws, and key historical documents to provide these protections.

Question 15

Which among the following follow a parliamentary system of government? 

  1. AOption (a)

    India only

  2. BOption (b)

    Australia only

  3. COption (c)

    India and Australia 

  4. DOption (d)

    UK and USA

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

India and Australia 

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: India and Australia

India and Australia both follow a parliamentary system of government. In a parliamentary system, the executive branch derives its legitimacy from and is accountable to the legislature (parliament); the executive and legislative branches are thus interconnected. In both countries, the head of state is different from the head of government and the political power is vested in the parliament and the elected representatives.

India

India operates under a parliamentary system as outlined in its Constitution. The President of India is the ceremonial head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government, leading the executive branch which is part of the Parliament.

Australia

Australia, like India, has a parliamentary system where the Governor-General represents the monarch (Queen or King) as the ceremonial head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Australian Parliament consists of two houses, the House of Representatives and the Senate, which work together to pass legislation.

Incorrect Options:

1) India only: This option is incorrect because it excludes Australia, which also has a parliamentary system.

2) Australia only: This option is incorrect because it excludes India, which is a key example of a parliamentary democracy.

4) UK and USA: This option is incorrect for two reasons. First, the UK does indeed have a parliamentary system, similar to India and Australia. However, the USA follows a presidential system, not a parliamentary one. In the presidential system of the USA, the President is both the head of state and the head of government, and there is a clear separation of powers between the executive and the legislative branches.

Conclusion:

The parliamentary system is characterized by a fusion of powers between the executive and legislative branches, with the government being accountable to the parliament. Both India and Australia exemplify this system, making option 3 the correct choice. The United States, mentioned in one of the incorrect options, stands as a contrast with its presidential system, where there is a distinct separation between the executive and legislative branches.

Question 16

A human being ceases to be a person, in law as in fact _____.

  1. AOption (a)

    On being adjudged an insolvent

  2. BOption (b)

    On renunciation of citizenship

  3. COption (c)

    On conviction

  4. DOption (d)

    At death

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

At death

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

At death:

In both legal and practical terms, a human being ceases to be considered a person upon death. Legally, this is significant because it marks the end of an individual's rights and duties. The law no longer regards deceased individuals as holders of rights or obligations, and this cessation enables the execution of wills, the distribution of the deceased's estate, and the conclusion of their legal identity.

On being adjudged an insolvent:

Incorrect because insolvency, while affecting a person's financial status and ability to engage in certain transactions, does not strip a person of their legal or personal identity. Insolvent individuals still retain rights, such as the right to a fair trial and protection under the law, and have certain obligations.

On renunciation of citizenship:

Incorrect because renouncing citizenship affects a person's national identity and may alter their rights and responsibilities vis-undefined-vis a particular country, but it does not affect their status as a person under the law. Individuals who renounce their citizenship still possess human rights and are recognized as persons in legal systems.

On conviction:

Incorrect because conviction of a crime, regardless of its severity, does not erase an individual's personhood either legally or factually. Convicted individuals retain certain rights, such as the right to humane treatment and the right to appeal, and they continue to have legal responsibilities and protections.

Question 17

Which of the following international legal instrument is relating to patent? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Budapest Treaty, 1977

  2. BOption (b)

    Madrid Agreement, 1891

  3. COption (c)

    Berne Convention, 1886

  4. DOption (d)

    Washington Treaty, 1989

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Budapest Treaty, 1977

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Budapest Treaty, 1977

The Budapest Treaty on the International Recognition of the Deposit of Microorganisms for the Purposes of Patent Procedure, established in 1977, is an international agreement that allows for the deposit of microorganisms at an internationally recognized depository authority to satisfy the requirement for patent procedures in all contracting states. This treaty simplifies the process of patent application for inventions involving microorganisms, by allowing a single deposit to be recognized internationally, rather than making separate deposits in each country where patent protection is sought.

Other Options:

Madrid Agreement, 1891: This is incorrect because the Madrid Agreement concerns the international registration of marks. It provides a mechanism for securing trademark protection in multiple countries through a single application.

Berne Convention, 1886: This is not correct as the Berne Convention deals with the protection of works and the rights of their authors. It is a key agreement in the field of copyright law, ensuring that authors' works are protected in all signing countries without the need for formal registration.

Washington Treaty, 1989: This option is incorrect because there is no widely recognized international legal instrument related to patents known as the Washington Treaty from 1989. Itundefineds possible this refers to another treaty or is a mistaken reference. The closest notable treaty around that time with relevance to intellectual property might be the Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS), which was part of the World Trade Organizationundefineds establishment in 1994, not 1989.

Conclusion: The Budapest Treaty directly relates to the patent procedure, specifically for inventions involving microorganisms, by simplifying the process of recognizing such deposits internationally. The other options are related to different aspects of intellectual property law and do not specifically address patents in the same direct manner as the Budapest Treaty.

Question 18

Which kind of patent is protectable in India?  

  1. AOption (a)

    Design Patent

  2. BOption (b)

    Utility Patent

  3. COption (c)

    Process Patent

  4. DOption (d)

    Plant Variety Patent

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Process Patent

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Process Patent

In India, a process patent is protectable. It refers to a patent for a specific process or method of doing something, typically used in manufacturing or technical operations. This type of patent ensures that the method of creating a product or achieving a result is protected, preventing others from using the same process without authorization.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Design Patent:

While design patents are indeed recognized in India, they are specifically meant to protect the visual design of objects that are not purely utilitarian. The question specifically asks for the kind of patent that is protectable, implying a singular answer, which is more accurately filled by the option of a process patent in the context of broad protection categories in India.

Utility Patent:

The term "utility patent" is primarily used in the United States to refer to patents that are for the invention of a new and useful process, machine, manufacture, or composition of matter, or a new and useful improvement thereof. In India, this concept is more commonly referred to simply as a "patent", covering both products and processes, but the specific term "utility patent" is not commonly used, making "process patent" a more precise answer.

Plant Variety Patent:

In India, plant varieties are not protected under the Patents Act but under the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers' Rights Act, 2001. This act provides a separate form of protection that is distinct from patents and is specifically tailored to the protection of plant varieties, their seeds, propagules, etc. Hence, it is not considered under the general patent protection categories discussed in the question.

Question 19

"To protect and improve the natural environment including forest, lakes, rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures" is provided under which Part of the Indian Constitution? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Fundamental Rights

  2. BOption (b)

    Fundamental Duties

  3. COption (c)

    Directive Principles of State Policy

  4. DOption (d)

    Obligation of State

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Fundamental Duties

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Option: 2) Fundamental Duties

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

The statement, to protect and improve the natural environment including forest, lakes, rivers, and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures, is a part of the Fundamental Duties listed in the Indian Constitution.

Specifically, it is enshrined under Article 51A (g).

Fundamental Duties were added to the Constitution by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.

These duties are not enforceable by the courts for their violation, but the idea is to promote a sense of discipline and commitment among Indian citizens.

Question 20

Red herring prospectus is a prospectus issued: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Prior to the issue of prospectus

  2. BOption (b)

    After the issue of main prospectus

  3. COption (c)

    With the consent of shareholder

  4. DOption (d)

    On the behest of ROC (Register of Companies)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Prior to the issue of prospectus

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

A Red Herring Prospectus (RHP) is indeed issued prior to the issue of the main prospectus. It is a preliminary registration document filed with the securities regulator, which is not complete in terms of details on the price and number of shares to be issued. The purpose of the RHP is to gauge investor interest in the offering.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

After the issue of the main prospectus: This is incorrect because the Red Herring Prospectus comes before the final prospectus. The main prospectus is issued after the RHP and contains all final details including price and number of shares.

With the consent of shareholders: This is not accurate as the issuance of a Red Herring Prospectus is a regulatory requirement for companies seeking to go public and does not directly involve shareholder consent at this stage.

On the behest of ROC (Registrar of Companies): While the ROC plays a role in the registration of companies, the issuance of a Red Herring Prospectus is specifically related to securities regulation and is typically filed with securities regulators, not directly at the behest of the ROC.

Question 21

As per the Partnership Act, 1932 "Partnership" is defined under:  

  1. AOption (a)

    Section 8

  2. BOption (b)

    Section 7

  3. COption (c)

    Section 5

  4. DOption (d)

    Section 4

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Section 4

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Section 4

Explanation: Section 4 of the Partnership Act, 1932, precisely defines "Partnership", "Partner", "Firm" and "Firm Name". This section is fundamental as it lays down the legal framework for what constitutes a partnership. It describes a partnership as the relation between persons who have agreed to share the profits of a business carried on by all or any of them acting for all. This definition is crucial for understanding the legal basis of partnerships in India.

Incorrect Options:

Section 8:

This section is not related to the definition of partnership. Instead, it deals with other aspects of the Partnership Act, 1932, which do not pertain to the fundamental definition of what a partnership entails.

Section 7:

Section 7 does not define partnership. It focuses on different components or provisions within the Partnership Act, 1932, that regulate other matters concerning partnerships. The exact content of this section involves aspects unrelated to the basic definition of a partnership.

Section 5:

Similar to sections 7 and 8, Section 5 does not offer the definition of a partnership. It contains provisions regarding the conduct, rights, or obligations of partners or partnerships under specific circumstances, which are separate from the fundamental definition provided in Section 4.

In summary, Section 4 is the only section among the options provided that directly defines "Partnership" along with "Partner", "Firm", and "Firm Name", making it the correct answer. The other sections, while important within the context of the Partnership Act, 1932, do not serve the purpose of defining what constitutes a partnership.

Question 22

"Consideration is not necessary for creation of Agency" This is provided in: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Section 185 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872

  2. BOption (b)

    Section 4 of the Partnership Act, 1932

  3. COption (c)

    Section 4 of the Indian Agency Act, 1950

  4. DOption (d)

    Section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Section 185 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

Section 185 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, states that "No consideration is necessary to create an agency." This means that an agency relationship can be established without any payment or consideration. This is a unique aspect of agency law, distinguishing it from most other contracts where consideration is a key element for validity.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Section 4 of the Partnership Act, 1932: This section defines what a partnership is, detailing the relationship between persons who have agreed to share the profits of a business carried on by all or any of them acting for all. It does not deal with the concept of agency or the necessity of consideration in creating an agency.

Section 4 of the Indian Agency Act, 1950: This option is incorrect as there is no "Indian Agency Act, 1950". The Indian Contract Act of 1872 is the relevant legislation that deals with agency relationships in India, making this option invalid.

Section 2 of the Companies Act, 2013: This section provides definitions and interpretations for terms used within the Companies Act. It does not address agency relationships or the requirement of consideration for creating an agency, focusing instead on matters related to company law and corporate governance.

Question 23

"A man's nationality is a continuing legal relationship between the sovereign state on the one hand and the citizen on the other. The fundamental basis of a man's nationality is membership of an independent political community". This definition of nationality was given by the British Mexican Claims Commission in the case of: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Youman's case

  2. BOption (b)

    Re, Meunier

  3. COption (c)

    Re, Castioni

  4. DOption (d)

    Re, Lynch

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Re, Lynch

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Re, Lynch: This pivotal case exemplifies the intricate ties between nationality, sovereign powers, and individual rights. In the context of international law and diplomatic relations, the case underscores a nuanced understanding of nationality beyond mere citizenship or legal identity. The British Mexican Claims Commission's definition highlights several key dimensions:

Nationality as a Legal Relationship: At its core, nationality is portrayed not just as a status but as a legal bond that connects the individual to the state. This relationship is imbued with rights and obligations, underpinning the individual's legal standing both domestically and internationally.

Sovereign State and Citizenship: The definition emphasizes the dual components of this relationship: the sovereign state on one side, representing governmental authority and territorial integrity, and the citizen on the other, as the bearer of nationality. This delineation underscores the state's role in recognizing and conferring nationality, as well as its discretion in governing the terms of this association.

Membership in an Independent Political Community: Here, nationality is fundamentally tied to the concept of belonging to a collective—a community that is independent and politically organized. This aspect highlights the societal dimension of nationality, where it serves as a marker of a person's connection to a wider community with shared governance and collective identity.

Implications of the Definition: By framing nationality through the lens of a continuing legal relationship and membership in an independent political community, this definition from the Re, Lynch case captures the layered and dynamic nature of the concept. It underlines the significance of nationality in determining an individual's legal rights, societal belonging, and international recognition.

In essence, the Re, Lynch case contributes a dense and multifaceted understanding of nationality to international jurisprudence, underscoring the key elements of legal ties, sovereign authority, and communal belonging that define the relationship between an individual and their state.

Question 24

According to Kaushal Kishore v. State of UP (2023) the fundamental right under article 19 is available against: 

  1. AOption (a)

    State actors only

  2. BOption (b)

    Non state actors only

  3. COption (c)

    State as well as non state actors

  4. DOption (d)

    State under article 12 only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

State as well as non state actors

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

In Kaushal Kishore v. State of UP (2023), it was established that the fundamental right under Article 19 is available against both state and non-state actors. This interpretation broadens the scope of Article 19, ensuring that the rights it guarantees, such as the freedom of speech and expression, protection against certain forms of discrimination, and others, are safeguarded not only from actions by the state but also from violations by private entities or individuals.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

State actors only: This option is incorrect because it limits the application of Article 19's protections only to actions taken by state entities. While historically, fundamental rights were primarily seen as protections against the state, evolving jurisprudence recognizes the impact non-state actors can have on these rights.

Non-state actors only: This option is also incorrect as it suggests that Article 19's protections apply exclusively to actions by non-state actors. This overlooks the original and primary intent of the Constitution, which is to protect individuals from abuses of power by the state.

State under Article 12 only: This choice is misleading. While Article 12 of the Indian Constitution defines the term 'State' for the purposes of Part III (Fundamental Rights), suggesting that Article 19 protections apply only in the context of entities defined under Article 12 is too narrow. The correct interpretation includes actions by both state and non-state actors affecting the rights under Article 19.

Question 25

As per National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, “Environment" includes water, air and land and other interrelationship, which exists among and between water, air and land and human beings, other living creatures, plants, microorganism and ______. 

  1. AOption (a)

    Ecosystem

  2. BOption (b)

    Biodiversity

  3. COption (c)

    Property 

  4. DOption (d)

    Climate

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Property 

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Property

The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, under its definitions related to "environment," includes a broad spectrum of elements such as water, air, and land. Importantly, it also recognizes the intricate interrelationships that exist among these elements and between them and human beings, other living creatures, plants, microorganisms, and property. The inclusion of property in this definition is crucial as it acknowledges the impact of environmental conditions on physical assets and the reciprocal effects that changes in property use and development can have on the environment.

Incorrect Options:

Ecosystem: While ecosystems are inherently a critical part of the environment, encompassing the interactions between living organisms (including humans) and their physical surroundings, the specific choice of "property" in the context of the National Green Tribunal Act highlights the legal and human-centric aspects of environmental consideration, beyond the biological and ecological components implied by "ecosystem."

Biodiversity: Biodiversity refers to the variety and variability of life on Earth, including the diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems. Although biodiversity is a fundamental component of the environment and essential for its health and stability, the Act's mention of "property" specifically points to the human and legal dimensions of environmental interactions and protections.

Climate: Climate, encompassing the long-term patterns of temperature, precipitation, humidity, wind, and seasons, is a critical environmental factor affecting water, air, and land. However, the Act's explicit mention of "property" focuses on the direct interrelationships and legal considerations between environmental elements and human-made or owned assets, rather than the broader, more generalized conditions described by "climate."

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

The inclusion of "property" in the definition provided by the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010, underscores the Act's recognition of the tangible and intangible assets that are affected by environmental factors and, conversely, how these assets can impact the environment. This perspective is essential for addressing environmental disputes and implementing protections in a way that considers the full scope of human-environment interactions, including economic and developmental considerations. It reflects an understanding that environmental protection efforts must account for the complex relationships between natural resources and the built environment, ensuring sustainable development and the safeguarding of both natural and human-constructed elements of our world.

Question 26

The term "Contra Prolerentem" means: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Contradictory contract

  2. BOption (b)

    Standard form contract are to be interpreted legally

  3. COption (c)

    Limited construction

  4. DOption (d)

    Ambiguity is to be resolved against the party who inserted limiting term.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Ambiguity is to be resolved against the party who inserted limiting term.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 4

Key PointsThe term "Contra Proferentem" is a legal doctrine applied in contract law. It stipulates that if there is any ambiguity in the terms of a contract, the ambiguity should be resolved against the party who drafted the contract or inserted the ambiguous term. This principle is particularly applied when one party has more power in drafting the contract, often seen in standard form contracts or 'boilerplate' contracts. The rationale behind this rule is to discourage the drafting party from including unclear or unfair terms, ensuring they make the terms as clear and equitable as possible.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Option 1: Contradictory contract - This option is incorrect because a "contradictory contract" is not a recognized legal principle or term. While contracts can contain contradictions, this does not relate to the specific principle of resolving ambiguities against the drafter.

Option 2: Standard form contracts are to be interpreted legally - This statement is misleading and too broad. While it is true that all contracts, including standard form contracts, are to be interpreted according to legal principles, this does not specifically describe the Contra Proferentem rule, which deals with ambiguity in the contract terms.

Option 3: Limited construction - This is a vague term and does not accurately describe the Contra Proferentem rule. Limited construction might refer to a narrow interpretation of contract terms, but it does not specifically address the issue of resolving ambiguities against the drafter.

Option 4 (Correct): Ambiguity is to be resolved against the party who inserted limiting term - This accurately describes the Contra Proferentem rule, focusing on the resolution of ambiguities against the party who drafted or inserted the ambiguous term.

Question 27

The General Assembly of the United Nations passed the Uniting for Peace Resolution on:   

  1. AOption (a)

    December 10, 1948

  2. BOption (b)

    August 1, 1950

  3. COption (c)

    August 31, 1965

  4. DOption (d)

    November 3, 1950

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

November 3, 1950

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The correct answer is option 4) November 3, 1950.

The General Assembly of the United Nations adopted the Uniting for Peace Resolution, officially known as resolution 377 A (V), on November 3, 1950. This resolution was adopted in response to the strategy of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) to block any determination by the Security Council on measures to be taken in specific situations, thereby allowing the General Assembly to consider matters of international peace and security when the Security Council fails to act due to a lack of unanimity among its five permanent members.

Question 28

The Preamble of the Constitution of India: 

  1. AOption (a)

    can be amended

  2. BOption (b)

    cannot be amended

  3. COption (c)

    can be amended only by the Supreme Court

  4. DOption (d)

    cannot be amended because it is a part of the basic feature of the Constitution

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

can be amended

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Can be amended:

The Preamble of the Constitution of India can indeed be amended. This was affirmed in the landmark Kesavananda Bharati case in 1973, where the Supreme Court of India ruled that while the basic structure of the Constitution could not be altered, the Preamble could be amended as it is a part of the Constitution.

An example of such an amendment is the 42nd Amendment Act of 1976, which added the words "Socialist", "Secular", and "Integrity" to the Preamble.

Cannot be amended:

This option is incorrect because the Constitution provides for its amendment under Article 368, and the Supreme Court has clarified that the Preamble is a part of the Constitution that can be amended, provided the basic structure is not altered.

Can be amended only by the Supreme Court:

This option is incorrect because the power to amend the Constitution, including its Preamble, lies with the Parliament of India and not the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court's role is to ensure that such amendments do not violate the basic structure of the Constitution.

Cannot be amended because it is a part of the basic feature of the Constitution:

This option is misleading. While the Supreme Court has held that the basic structure of the Constitution cannot be amended, it has also specified that the Preamble, as part of the Constitution, can be amended. The distinction lies in ensuring that amendments to the Preamble do not alter the essence of the basic structure.

Question 29

'A' makes a contract with 'B' to buy B's horse if 'A' survives 'C'. This contract can be enforced by law only when: 

  1. AOption (a)

    'C' dies in lifetime of 'A'

  2. BOption (b)

    'A' dies in lifetime of 'C'

  3. COption (c)

    'A' and 'C' both die

  4. DOption (d)

    'B' dies in lifetime of 'A'

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

'C' dies in lifetime of 'A'

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation: The contract between 'A' and 'B' regarding the purchase of B's horse is contingent upon the survival of 'A' over 'C'. This means that for the contract to be enforceable by law, the condition that 'A' must outlive 'C' needs to be fulfilled. Therefore, the contract can only be enforced if 'C' dies in the lifetime of 'A', fulfilling the condition upon which the contract was based.

Incorrect Options Explanation:

Option 2 ('A' dies in the lifetime of 'C'): This option is incorrect because if 'A' dies before 'C', the condition upon which the contract was based (that 'A' must outlive 'C') is not met. Hence, the contract cannot be enforced by law.

Option 3 ('A' and 'C' both die): This option does not specify the sequence of their deaths, which is crucial for the contract's condition. The contract's enforceability depends on 'A' outliving 'C'. Without knowing who died first, this option cannot be considered correct.

Option 4 ('B' dies in the lifetime of 'A'): The death of 'B' does not impact the condition related to 'A' outliving 'C'. The contract's enforceability is not contingent on 'B's survival but rather on the condition of 'A' surviving 'C'. Therefore, this option is irrelevant to the contract's condition being fulfilled.

Question 30

There is no distinction between de facto and de jure recognition for the purpose of giving effect to the internal acts of the recognised authority. This was held so in the case of _____. 

  1. AOption (a)

    Mighell v. Sultan of Johore

  2. BOption (b)

    Luther v. Sagor

  3. COption (c)

    Vavasseur v. Krupp

  4. DOption (d)

    Schooner Exchange v. Mc Faddon

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Luther v. Sagor

Why this answer is correct

Luther v. Sagor is a landmark case that elucidates the concept of recognition in international law, particularly focusing on the distinction, or rather the lack thereof, between de facto and de jure recognition in the context of giving effect to the internal acts of a recognized authority.

Key Points

De Facto Recognition: This implies a level of recognition where a foreign state or government is recognized to have control over a territory, but without any formal or legal endorsement of legitimacy or permanence. Essentially, it acknowledges the reality of control without expressing approval. 

De Jure Recognition: This form of recognition goes a step further, implying not just acknowledgment of control or governance but also of the legitimacy and rightful status of the government or state in question. It usually follows after de facto recognition, at the point where the recognizing state is satisfied that the government in control is stable and effective over a period.

In Luther v. Sagor, the court was tasked with deciding whether actions taken by the Soviet government, which had not been formally (de jure) recognized by the British government at the time the actions were taken, could have legal effects in Britain. The Soviet authorities had nationalized timber and other properties owned by British nationals, leading to disputes on whether these acts could be acknowledged and given effect in British courts.

The significance of the ruling in Luther v. Sagor comes down to this:

The court determined that as long as a foreign authority controls a territory effectively (in this case, the Soviet government), the British courts would give effect to the internal acts of that authority, irrespective of whether it was recognized de facto or de jure by the British government.

This decision underscored the practical approach of the common law system towards foreign sovereign acts, focusing on the effectiveness of control and governance, rather than the formal endorsement of such governance through recognition.

The ruling thereby highlights a pragmatic stance in international law regarding recognition, where the reality on the ground and the ability to enforce rule and order takes precedence over formal diplomatic acknowledgments.

Question 31

The Supreme Court of India remarked that "Extradition with foreign states is, except in exceptional cases, governed by treaties or arrangements made" in the case of: 

  1. AOption (a)

    State of Maharashtra v. Shobha Vitthal Kolte

  2. BOption (b)

    T. Vellaiyan v. The Registrar, SHRC, Chennai

  3. COption (c)

    State of Madras v. C.G. Menon

  4. DOption (d)

    N. C. Dhoundial v. Union of India

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

State of Madras v. C.G. Menon

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Extradition is a formal process where one country requests another to surrender a suspected or convicted criminal. Here's a detailed explanation around the context of the correct answer, which concerns State of Madras v. C.G. Menon:

Principle of Extradition: The Supreme Court of India underscored the principle that extradition between countries is primarily driven by treaties or agreements. This principle highlights the diplomatic and legal frameworks that nations establish to facilitate the process of handing over individuals accused or convicted of crimes.

Importance of Treaties: The court's remark brings to light the paramount importance of treaties or arrangements in extradition. These legal instruments lay down the terms, conditions, and procedures for extradition, including the types of crimes that are extraditable offenses and the protections afforded to the individuals being extradited.

Exceptional Cases: While the court mentioned that extradition is usually governed by treaties, it also acknowledged the existence of "exceptional cases." This implies there may be circumstances under which a country might consider extradition requests even in the absence of a formal treaty, possibly based on reciprocity, humanitarian considerations, or international obligations.

Timeline and Review: The reference to the case State of Madras v. C.G. Menon suggests a legal context where extradition or potentially related aspects of cross-border legal cooperation were under scrutiny. The remark underscores the judiciary's role in interpreting and enforcing the principles governing international legal cooperation.

Legal Framework: The observation by the Supreme Court in this case is reflective of the complex legal frameworks that underpin international relations, particularly in the context of law enforcement and criminal justice. Countries rely on these frameworks to combat cross-border crime and ensure that criminals cannot evade justice simply by fleeing beyond national borders.

Diplomatic Relations: The emphasis on treaties and arrangements also points to the broader theme of diplomatic relations between countries. Extradition treaties are negotiated in a broader context of mutual legal assistance and are seen as vital tools in fostering cooperation, trust, and security among nations.

In summary, the Supreme Court's remark in State of Madras v. C.G. Menon about extradition being governed by treaties except in exceptional cases illustrates the significance of international agreements in the extradition process, acknowledges the existence of scenarios that may require a deviation from standard procedures, and highlights the intersection of legal principles with international diplomacy and relations.

Question 32

When an absolute right is violated, the law conclusively presumes damages although the person wronged may have suffered no pecuniary loss. This was decided in case of: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Rogers v. Rajender Dutt 

  2. BOption (b)

    Ashby v. White

  3. COption (c)

    Winsmore v. Greenbank

  4. DOption (d)

    Tozer v. Child

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Ashby v. White

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Ashby v. White is the correct case that established the principle that when an absolute right is violated, the law conclusively presumes damages even if the person wronged has not suffered any pecuniary loss. This landmark case involved a constable who wrongfully prevented a legally qualified voter from casting his vote. The court held that the voter had a right to vote and, by being denied this right, he suffered damages in the eyes of the law, despite not suffering any direct financial loss.

Rogers v. Rajender Dutt is incorrect because it does not pertain to the principle of presumed damages in the context of violation of absolute rights. This case might involve different legal issues, but it is not the landmark case establishing the principle of presumed damages for violation of absolute rights without pecuniary loss.

Winsmore v. Greenbank is also incorrect. This case might deal with other aspects of law or legal disputes but it is not the case that established the legal principle regarding presumed damages for the violation of absolute rights without the need to prove pecuniary loss.

Tozer v. Child is incorrect for the same reasons as the above options; it does not represent the legal principle that damages are presumed when an absolute right is violated, regardless of pecuniary loss.

In summary, Ashby v. White is a foundational case in the principle of law that when an absolute right is infringed upon, damages are presumed by the law even in the absence of direct financial loss, underscoring the importance of protecting certain legal rights beyond the measure of monetary compensation. The other options, while they may involve legal disputes and principles, do not embody the specific legal doctrine established in Ashby v. White.

Question 33

In which of the following cases has it been held that the doctrine of basic features does not constitute a limitation on the legislature while enacting ordinary legislation? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain

  2. BOption (b)

    Swadeshi Industries v. Workmen 

  3. COption (c)

    Royappa v. State of Tamil Nadu

  4. DOption (d)

    Kishor v. State of Rajasthan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain:

  • This landmark judgment dealt primarily with the issue of amendments to the Indian Constitution and how they relate to the basic structure doctrine.
  • Basic Structure Doctrine: Originated from the Kesavananda Bharati case (1973), this doctrine holds that certain features of the Constitution of India form its basic structure and cannot be altered or destroyed through amendments by the Parliament.
  • Examples of features considered part of the basic structure include democracy, secularism, federalism, and the separation of powers.

Relation to Ordinary Legislation:

  • The critical aspect to understand here is the distinction between constitutional amendments and ordinary legislation.
  • The basic structure doctrine specifically applies to amendments of the Constitution and not to ordinary laws passed by the legislature.
  • In Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain, while the case revolved around electoral malpractices and challenged amendments made to protect Indira Gandhi's election in 1971, the essence was about the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution and its limits.
  • This case reinforced the idea that while the Constitution has a basic structure that cannot be altered, ordinary legislative acts (laws passed by Parliament that do not seek to amend the Constitution) are not directly subjected to the basic structure review.
  • However, it is crucial to understand that while ordinary legislation is not under the lens for basic structure review, such laws must still conform to the constitutional provisions and can be challenged if they violate fundamental rights or other constitutional provisions.

Conclusion: The case of Indira Gandhi v. Raj Narain demonstrated the application of the basic structure doctrine to constitutional amendments rather than limiting the legislative power in enacting ordinary legislation. This implies that while the doctrine serves as a check on amending the Constitution in ways that could erode its fundamental character, it does not impose a similar limitation on the enactment of regular laws by the legislature, provided those laws adhere to the Constitution's provisions.

Question 34

Mens rea does not include:  

  1. AOption (a)

    Intention

  2. BOption (b)

    Knowledge

  3. COption (c)

    Reason to believe

  4. DOption (d)

    Motive

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Motive

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

Motive is not included in mens rea.

Mens rea refers to the mental state or intent behind committing a crime. It is a fundamental principle in criminal law that assesses the perpetrator's mental state at the time of the crime.

Motive, although related to the reason why a crime is committed, is not a legal requirement to establish criminal liability. It is more about the underlying reason for committing the crime, which might not directly impact the legal determination of guilt.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Intention: This is a core component of mens rea. It involves a conscious decision to perform an act that is unlawful. Intention directly relates to the mental state of wanting to achieve a specific outcome, which is crucial in determining criminal liability.

Knowledge: Knowledge is another aspect of mens rea that implies an awareness of the fact that one's actions are likely to lead to a prohibited outcome. This awareness is necessary for certain crimes where the perpetrator needs to be aware of the illegality or potential consequences of their actions.

Reason to believe: This implies a level of awareness that certain outcomes are likely as a result of one's actions. It is less direct than knowledge but still indicates a form of mental engagement with the potential consequences of one's actions, making it a relevant aspect of mens rea.

Question 35

Which among the following provisions of the Constitution of India mandates criminalisation of prohibited conduct? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Article 17 only

  2. BOption (b)

    Article 23 only

  3. COption (c)

    Article 17 and 23 only

  4. DOption (d)

    Article 17, 23 and 24

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Article 17 and 23 only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer Explanation:

Option 3: Article 17 and 23 only are the provisions of the Constitution of India that mandate the criminalisation of prohibited conduct.

Article 17 deals with the abolition of "Untouchability". It forbids the practice of untouchability in any form, making any such practice a punishable offense in accordance with the law. This provision directly mandates criminalizing such conduct.

Article 23 prohibits human trafficking and forced labor, declaring any contravention of this provision a punishable offense under the law. This article aims to protect individuals from exploitation, making it a constitutional mandate to criminalize such activities.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Option 1: Article 17 only

This option is partially correct as Article 17 does mandate the criminalization of untouchability, but it overlooks Article 23, which also mandates criminalization of human trafficking and forced labor.

Option 2: Article 23 only

Similar to Option 1, this choice correctly identifies Article 23 as mandating criminalization but fails to recognize the importance of Article 17 in the context of prohibiting and criminalizing untouchability.

Option 4: Article 17, 23, and 24

Although Articles 17 and 23 mandate the criminalization of certain conducts, Article 24, which prohibits child labor in factories, etc., does not directly mandate criminalization in the same manner as Articles 17 and 23. Article 24 sets a directive for the state to ensure that children below a certain age are not employed in hazardous conditions but does not specify criminal penalties in the same explicit manner.

In conclusion, Article 17 and Article 23 of the Indian Constitution specifically mandate the criminalization of untouchability and human trafficking/forced labor, respectively, making them the correct provisions that directly lead to the criminalization of prohibited conduct.

Question 36

The right of private defence extends to causing death under which provision of IPC: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Section 100 only

  2. BOption (b)

    Section 100 and 103 only

  3. COption (c)

    Section 103 only

  4. DOption (d)

    Section 100, 103, 105

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Section 100 and 103 only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Correct Answer: Option 2 (Section 100 and 103 only)

Explanation of the Correct Answer:

Section 100 of the IPC: This section lays down the scenarios where the right of private defence of the body extends to causing death. It includes situations such as defense against certain types of assaults that reasonably cause the fear of death or grievous hurt, assault with the intention of committing rape, kidnapping, etc. The provision is designed to offer legal protection to individuals who, in the process of defending themselves or others, cause the death of the aggressor under specific circumstances.

Section 103 of the IPC: Similar to Section 100, this section pertains to the right of private defence of property extending to causing death. However, this right is limited to situations where the property under threat is of a certain nature or the attack is of a severe kind, such as robbery, house-breaking by night, etc. It specifies conditions under which causing death in defense of property is considered justifiable.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Option 1 (Section 100 only): This option is incorrect because it overlooks Section 103, which also allows for the right of private defence to extend to causing death, but in the context of defending property under specific circumstances.

Option 3 (Section 103 only): This option incorrectly suggests that only the defense of property can extend to causing death, ignoring the provisions under Section 100 related to the defense of the body.

Option 4 (Section 100, 103, 105): This option inaccurately includes Section 105, which is not relevant to the right of private defence extending to causing death. Section 105 deals with the commencement and continuance of the right of private defence of the body and property, not specifically with causing death.

  • Conclusion: The right of private defence extending to causing death is specifically covered under both Sections 100 (for the body) and 103 (for property) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), making Option 2 the correct and comprehensive choice.

Question 37

A1 and A2 plan to commit robbery. Mere agreement to commit this offence is punishable under which provision of IPC?

  1. AOption (a)

    120 B

  2. BOption (b)

    107 (2)

  3. COption (c)

    120 B and 107 (2)

  4. DOption (d)

    Without actus reus it is not possible at all

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

120 B

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Correct Answer: 1) 120 B

Explanation: Section 120B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with criminal conspiracy. It specifies that when two or more persons agree to commit an illegal act or a legal act by illegal means, such an agreement is designated as a criminal conspiracy. The mere agreement to commit an offense, even without any act towards its commission, is punishable under this provision. This directly applies to the scenario where A1 and A2 plan to commit robbery, making their agreement punishable under IPC Section 120B.

Incorrect Options:

2) 107 (2): This option is incorrect because Section 107 of the IPC deals with abetment of a thing. It involves a person engaging in either instigating, engaging with conspiracy, or intentionally aiding a crime. While it is related to the concept of assisting or encouraging crime, it does not specifically cover the mere agreement to commit a crime without any further action, as is the case with Section 120B.

3) 120 B and 107 (2): This option combines both sections 120B and 107(2) of the IPC. While both sections deal with concepts related to the planning and aiding of crimes, the question specifically asks about the punishment for merely agreeing to commit an offense. In this context, Section 120B is the direct and specific provision for punishing the mere agreement to commit a crime, making this combined option incorrect.

4) Without actus reus it is not possible at all: This option suggests that without actus reus (the physical act of committing a crime), it is not possible to be punished. This statement is generally incorrect in the context of criminal conspiracy under IPC Section 120B, which expressly provides for the punishment of agreements to commit crimes, even in the absence of any physical act towards its commission. This highlights the special provision under the law for criminal conspiracy, where the mere intention and agreement to commit a crime are sufficient for punishment.

Question 38

A is lawfully arrested by Z who is a police officer. A loses his self control by grave and sudden provocation due to arrest and kills Z. A shall be punished under: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Section 304 of IPC

  2. BOption (b)

    Section 302 of IPC

  3. COption (c)

    Section 304 or 302 of IPC

  4. DOption (d)

    Section 301 read with Section 302 of IPC

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Section 302 of IPC

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Correct Answer: Option 2 (Section 302 of IPC)

Explanation of Correct Answer:

Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) pertains to the punishment for murder.

In this scenario, although A loses self-control due to grave and sudden provocation (the arrest by Z, a police officer), the act of killing Z is considered murder under the law because it resulted in the death of a person.

The fact that A was provoked does not justify or excuse the act of killing, making Section 302 the appropriate section under which A should be punished.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Option 1 (Section 304 of IPC):

Section 304 deals with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. In this case, the provocation does not reduce the act to culpable homicide, as the act of killing a law enforcement officer in response to a lawful arrest is considered murder.

Option 3 (Section 304 or 302 of IPC):

This option is incorrect because it suggests ambiguity between murder and culpable homicide. Given the circumstances, the act is clearly identified as murder, not leaving room for consideration under Section 304.

Option 4 (Section 301 read with Section 302 of IPC):

Section 301 pertains to culpable homicide by causing the death of a person other than the person whose death was intended. Since A's act was directed at Z and resulted in Z's death, this combination of sections is not applicable to the scenario.

In summary, the act of killing a police officer in response to a lawful arrest, despite the provocation, is classified as murder under Section 302 of the IPC, making it the appropriate section for punishment in this case.

Question 39

All sums realised by way of penalties under the Competition Act, 2002 are credited to: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Competition Fund

  2. BOption (b)

    Consolidated Fund of India

  3. COption (c)

    Finance Account of Ministry of Commerce

  4. DOption (d)

    PM Relief Fund

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Consolidated Fund of India

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Correct Answer: Consolidated Fund of India

The Consolidated Fund of India is the most important of all government accounts. Revenues received by the government, loans raised by it, and also its receipts from recoveries of loans granted by it are credited to this fund.

Any sums realised by way of penalties under the Competition Act, 2002, are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India. This is because such penalties are considered as revenue earned by the government through its regulatory functions.

The use of funds from the Consolidated Fund of India requires parliamentary approval, ensuring that penalties collected under the Competition Act are utilized in a manner that is transparent and accountable to the legislature.

Overview of Incorrect Options:

Competition Fund: This might seem like a logical place for penalties under the Competition Act to go, especially since the name suggests a direct relation. However, this is incorrect because the Competition Fund is more specifically aimed at promoting competition, including through advocacy and research, rather than being a repository for penalties.

Finance Account of Ministry of Commerce: While this account deals with financial matters related to commerce, penalties under the Competition Act do not specifically go to this account. The Ministry of Commerce does deal with trade and commerce, but penalties are considered government revenue and are thus directed to the Consolidated Fund.

PM Relief Fund: This fund is intended for providing relief to families of those killed in natural calamities, accidents, and riots, among other purposes. Penalties collected under the Competition Act are not allocated to this fund as they are not donations or contributions for relief purposes.

In summary, penalties under the Competition Act, 2002, are credited to the Consolidated Fund of India because it is the principal account into which all government revenues, including penalties, are deposited. The other options, while relevant in their respective domains, do not serve as the repository for such penalties.

Question 40

Central Consumer Protection Council is headed by a chairperson who is 

  1. AOption (a)

    Retired judge of the Supreme Court of India

  2. BOption (b)

    Minister in charge of Department of Consumer Affairs in Central Government 

  3. COption (c)

    President of India or his nominee

  4. DOption (d)

    Head of Competition Commission of India

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Minister in charge of Department of Consumer Affairs in Central Government 

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Correct Answer: Minister in charge of Department of Consumer Affairs in the Central Government.

Explanation: The Central Consumer Protection Council is a vital body established under the Consumer Protection Act. Its primary role is to advise the government on consumer-related policies and issues. The chairperson of this council is indeed the Minister in charge of the Department of Consumer Affairs in the Central Government. This position allows for direct governmental oversight and ensures that consumer rights are a central focus of policy-making.

Incorrect Options:

Retired judge of the Supreme Court of India: This option is incorrect because, while retired judges often head commissions or panels due to their legal expertise, the Central Consumer Protection Council is more policy-oriented and directly connected to the administration of consumer affairs, making a minister the more appropriate choice for its leadership.

President of India or his nominee: This option is not correct because the President of India, being the ceremonial head of the state, does not directly engage in administrative roles such as heading the Central Consumer Protection Council. The President's involvement in such specific administrative functions is limited.

Head of Competition Commission of India: This option is also incorrect. The Competition Commission of India deals with issues related to market competition and antitrust laws, which is a different domain from consumer protection. While both bodies aim to ensure fair practices, their focuses and leadership structures are distinct.

In summary, the leadership of the Central Consumer Protection Council by the Minister in charge of the Department of Consumer Affairs ensures that there is a direct link between consumer protection policies and the governmental department specifically responsible for such affairs, facilitating efficient and responsive governance in the area of consumer rights.

Question 41

'Dominant position' of an enterprise is reflected in which of the following situations:

(A) Position of strength in the relevant international market

(B) Enterprise operating independently of market forces in India

(C) Affecting competition or consumers of relevant market in India in its favour

(D) Position of strength enjoyed in relevant market in India

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (C), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (A), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (C), (D), (B) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(C), (D), (B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key PointsStatement A: Position of strength in the relevant international market - This statement is incorrect because the concept of 'dominant position' is typically assessed within a specific market context, which can be local, regional, or national in scope. The international market position does not directly imply dominance in the domestic context as per the competition laws in many jurisdictions, including India.

Statement B: Enterprise operating independently of market forces in India - This statement is correct. One of the key indicators of an enterprise being in a dominant position is its ability to operate independently of competitive pressures. This means the enterprise can set prices, control supply, or make significant strategic decisions without having to consider the actions of competitors, consumers, or suppliers.

Statement C: Affecting competition or consumers of relevant market in India in its favour - This statement is correct. A dominant position is indicated by the ability of an enterprise to affect market conditions or the behavior of competitors, consumers, or suppliers in a way that favors the enterprise. This could mean setting unfair terms, limiting production, or applying dissimilar conditions to equivalent transactions, thereby placing competitors at a disadvantage.

Statement D: Position of strength enjoyed in relevant market in India - This statement is correct. The essence of 'dominant position' is the ability of an enterprise to act to an appreciable extent independently of its competitors, customers, or ultimately consumers. A position of strength in the relevant market in India is a direct reflection of dominance, as it indicates significant market power over competitors and influence on market conditions.

Conclusion: Based on the above explanations:

  • Statement A is incorrect because dominance is assessed within the context of specific markets, not necessarily at an international level.
  • Statements B, C, and D are correct as they accurately reflect conditions that indicate an enterprise's dominant position in the relevant market in India.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4: (C), (D), (B) Only.

Question 42

Which of the following are characteristics of a government promissory note:

(A) It is a promise of President of India or Governor of a state

(B) It is regulated by the Indian Securities Act, 1886

(C) They are not negotiable instrument

(D) They can be assigned without endorsement

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (C), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Statement A: It is a promise of President of India or Governor of a state - This statement is correct. Government promissory notes are essentially debt instruments issued by the government and do represent a promise by the President of India or the Governor of a state. They represent a promise by the government to pay the bearer a specified sum at a specified date.

Statement B: It is regulated by the Indian Securities Act, 1886 - This statement is correct. Government promissory notes are indeed regulated by the Indian Securities Act, 1886. This act provides the legal framework for the issuance and regulation of securities, including government promissory notes, in India.

Statement C: They are not negotiable instruments - This statement is incorrect. Government promissory notes are considered negotiable instruments, which means they can be transferred from one person to another, and the holder in due course has the right to the sum mentioned therein.

Statement D: They can be assigned without endorsement - This statement is also incorrect. Generally, for the transfer of certain negotiable instruments, including government promissory notes, an endorsement by the holder is required. This ensures that the legal title to the note is transferred to the new holder.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1, (A), (B) Only:

  • Statement A is incorrect as the promise is not specifically from the President of India or the Governor of a state.
  • Statement B is correct as government promissory notes are regulated by the Indian Securities Act, 1886.
  • Statement C is incorrect because government promissory notes are negotiable instruments.
  • Statement D is incorrect as government promissory notes generally require endorsement for their assignment.

Question 43

Non-obstnate Clause in section 145 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881 provides for which of the following:

(A) dispenses with the procedure under section 200 of CrPC

(B) procedure of examination of complainant and witness on oath is done

(C) away affidavit of complainant and witness can be accepted

(D) sworn statement recording by the magistrate is dispensed with

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B), (C), (D)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(A), (B), (C), (D)

Why this answer is correct

Section 145 of the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881: Notwithstanding anything contained in the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (2 of 1974), the evidence of the complainant may be given by him on affidavit and may, subject to all just exceptions be read in evidence in any enquiry, trial or other proceeding under the said Code. 

HintStatement (A) "dispenses with the procedure under section 200 of CrPC": This statement is correct. The Non-Obstante Clause in section 145 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, indeed allows for the dispensation of the normal procedure outlined under section 200 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), which typically involves the magistrate examining the complainant and the witnesses present.

Statement (B) "procedure of examination of complainant and witness on oath is done": This statement is correct in the context of what section 145 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, aims to achieve. The section states essentially simplifies the process and does not necessarily require the examination of the complainant and witnesses on oath in the manner traditionally done under section 200 of CrPC.

Statement (C) "away affidavit of complainant and witness can be accepted": This statement is correct. Section 145 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, allows for the acceptance of affidavits from the complainant and witnesses. This provision makes the process more efficient by not mandatorily requiring the physical presence of the complainant or witnesses for the initial examination.

Statement (D) "sworn statement recording by the magistrate is dispensed with": This statement is correct. The introduction of section 145 of the Negotiable Instruments Act was to streamline the process and make it less cumbersome, which includes dispensing with the requirement for the magistrate to record sworn statements, thus expediting the proceedings.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 4 - (A), (B), (C), (D), as all these provisions are encapsulated within the Non-Obstante Clause of section 145 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, to streamline and simplify the process involved.

Question 44

What amongst the following are necessary characteristics for 'Libel'.

(A) It is defamation of permanent form

(B) The burden of proof that the words are false lie upon the plaintiff

(C) No actual damage need to be proved to sustain an action

(D) Falsity of charge is presumed in favour of plaintiff

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(A), (C), (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement (A): It is defamation of permanent form

Correct. Libel involves defamation in a fixed medium, such as written words or images, making it permanent. This distinguishes it from slander, which is spoken defamation and considered transient.

Statement (B): The burden of proof that the words are false lies upon the plaintiff

Incorrect. In libel cases, especially in jurisdictions that follow the principles of English law, the burden of proof often shifts to the defendant. The defendant must prove that the defamatory statements are true, which is a defense against libel. Therefore, the presumption is that the statements are false until proven otherwise.

Statement (C): No actual damage needs to be proved to sustain an action

Correct. For libel, it is not necessary for the plaintiff to prove that they suffered actual damage (e.g., financial loss) as a result of the defamation. The mere fact that a defamatory statement was made in a permanent form can be enough to sustain an action for libel, given the potential for harm to reputation.

Statement (D): Falsity of charge is presumed in favor of the plaintiff

Correct. In libel cases, there is often a presumption that the defamatory statements are false, placing the burden on the defendant to prove their truth. This is significant because it protects individuals from having their reputations unjustly tarnished by false statements.

Solution:

Statement (A) is correct because libel is indeed defamation in a permanent form.

Statement (B) is incorrect as the burden of proving the truth of the defamatory statements generally falls on the defendant, not the plaintiff.

Statement (C) is correct because in libel cases, proving actual damage is not always necessary.

Statement (D) is correct as the falsity of the defamatory charge is typically presumed in favor of the plaintiff, making it easier to bring a case of libel.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4: (A), (C), (D) Only.

Question 45

What amongst the following are necessary to constitute a false imprisonment.

(A) Total restrain on liberty of a person

(B) Detention may be actual or constructive

(C) It should be for a period of 2 years at least

(D) Detention or restrain should be unlawful

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A), (B), (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement (A) Total restrain on liberty of a person is correct. False imprisonment involves restricting a person's freedom of movement without their consent and without legal justification. It does not necessarily require physical restraint; it can also include threats or other actions that prevent a person from leaving.

Statement (B) Detention may be actual or constructive is correct. Actual detention means physically restraining someone so they cannot leave, while constructive detention can involve psychological restraint or threats that lead the person to believe they cannot freely leave.

Statement (C) It should be for a period of 2 years at least is incorrect. The duration of the detention does not determine whether an act constitutes false imprisonment. False imprisonment can occur regardless of how short the period of detention is; there is no minimum time requirement.

Statement (D) Detection or restrain should be unlawful is correct. For an act to be considered false imprisonment, the detention or restraint must be without legal justification. If there is a valid legal reason for the detention (e.g., arrest by a police officer with a warrant), it does not constitute false imprisonment.

Hence, statements (A), (B), and (D) are correct, making option 3 the correct answer.

Solution Statement: The necessary elements to constitute false imprisonment include a total restraint on the liberty of a person, which can be either actual or constructive, and the detention or restraint must be unlawful. There is no minimum time requirement for how long the detention lasts, making statement (C) incorrect. Therefore, the correct answer is option 3, which includes statements (A), (B), and (D) only.

Question 46

Which among the following expressly contain a provision for 'right to bear arms' as fundamental right?

(A) The Constitution Act, 1867 (Canada)

(B) Amendment II of US Constitution

(C) Constitution (108th Amendment) Act (India)

(D) Human Rights Act, 1998 (UK)

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (C), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement A: The Constitution Act, 1867 (Canada) does not expressly contain a provision for the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. The right to bear arms is more of a regulated matter in Canada and is not recognized as a fundamental right within the Constitution Act of 1867. Hence, Statement A is incorrect.

Statement B: Amendment II of the US Constitution expressly contains a provision for the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution protects an individual's right to keep and bear arms. This has been a significant aspect of American constitutional law and culture. Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement C: Constitution (108th Amendment) Act (India) does not deal with the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. Indian law regulates the right to bear arms through specific legislations like the Arms Act, 1959, and it is not enshrined as a fundamental right in the Constitution of India, including any amendments such as the 108th Amendment. Hence, Statement C is incorrect.

Statement D: Human Rights Act, 1998 (UK) does not expressly contain a provision for the right to bear arms as a fundamental right. The Act incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law, and the right to bear arms is not among the rights protected under the Human Rights Act or the European Convention. Hence, Statement D is incorrect.

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is option 3) (B) Only, which asserts that only Amendment II of the US Constitution expressly contains a provision for the right to bear arms as a fundamental right.

Conclusion: The only statement that correctly identifies a document containing an express provision for the right to bear arms as a fundamental right is Statement B: Amendment II of the US Constitution.

Question 47

Constitution of which of the country "expressly" states that the Constitution shall be the supreme law of the land?

(A) USA

(B) South Africa

(C) India

(D) UK

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (C) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Statement (A) USA:

The Constitution of the United States explicitly states that it is the supreme law of the land. This is established in Article VI, Clause 2 of the U.S. Constitution, commonly known as the Supremacy Clause. It asserts that federal laws, treaties, and the Constitution itself take precedence over state laws.

Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement (B) South Africa:

South Africa Constitution also affirms its status as the supreme law of the country. The Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, adopted in 1996, explicitly states in Section 2 that the Constitution is the supreme law of the Republic; any law or conduct inconsistent with it is invalid, and the obligations imposed by it must be fulfilled.

Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement (C) India:

While the Constitution of India, adopted in 1950, is the highest authority in the country and lays down the framework defining fundamental political principles, establishes the structure, procedures, powers, and duties of government institutions, and sets out fundamental rights, directive principles, and the duties of citizens, it does not expressly state in a specific clause that it is the "supreme law of the land" in the manner that the U.S. Constitution does. However, the supremacy of the Constitution is a well-accepted principle in Indian jurisprudence.

Hence, Statement C is incorrect in the context of being "expressly" stated.

Statement (D) UK:

The United Kingdom does not have a written constitution consolidated into a single document. Instead, it has an uncodified or "unwritten" constitution, consisting of statutes, court judgments, and conventions. The principle of parliamentary sovereignty means that Parliament can, in theory, make or repeal any law. Therefore, there is no document or provision that "expressly" states the Constitution as the supreme law of the land in the UK.

Hence, Statement D is incorrect.

Correct Answer:

Given the explanations, the correct option is (1) (A), (B) Only. This is because both the United States and South Africa have constitutions that expressly state the document as the supreme law of the land, making the initial question's answer option 1 correct.

Conclusion:

The correct statements are A (USA) and B (South Africa), as both countries' constitutions expressly declare themselves as the supreme law of the land. Therefore, the solution statement confirms that option 1 is the correct choice.

Question 48

Which among the following makes a distinction between common intention and similar intention:

(A) Mahabub Shah v. Emperor (1945)

(B) Barendra Kumar Ghosh v. Emperor (1925)

(C) Jagmohan Singh v. State of UP (1973)

(D) Balwant Singh v. State of Punjab (1995)

(E) Badri v. State of Rajasthan (1995)

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    ​(A) Only

  3. COption (c)

    ​(B) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (C), (D), (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

​(A) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement A (Mahabub Shah v. Emperor (1945)): This case is significant in the context of differentiating between common intention and similar intention. The judgment emphasized that for the application of common intention under Indian law, it is essential that the intention of each member of the group be known to the others and shared by them. This establishes a clear distinction between merely having a similar intention and having a common intention which is pre-arranged and shared among the participants. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement B (Barendra Kumar Ghosh v. Emperor (1925)): This landmark case is pivotal for understanding the doctrine of common intention under the Indian Penal Code. The court held that the mere presence at the scene of a crime does not necessarily imply guilt unless it is proven that there was a pre-arranged plan and active participation. This case helps in understanding the concept of common intention but does not specifically address the distinction between common and similar intention. However, its interpretation and application can indirectly contribute to understanding the distinction. Hence, Statement B is correct in the broader context of understanding common intention but does not directly make a distinction between common and similar intention.

Statement C (Jagmohan Singh v. State of UP (1973)): This case primarily dealt with the constitutionality of the death penalty in India and did not directly address the issue of common vs. similar intention. Therefore, it does not make a distinction between common intention and similar intention. Hence, Statement C is incorrect in this context.

Statement D (Balwant Singh v. State of Punjab (1995)): This case revolved around the freedom of expression and the charges against individuals for sedition and promoting enmity between different groups. It did not deal with the nuances of common or similar intention. Hence, Statement D is incorrect in the context of distinguishing between common intention and similar intention.

Statement E (Badri v. State of Rajasthan (1995)): This case involved the consideration of circumstantial evidence in the context of a murder conviction but did not specifically address the legal distinction between common and similar intention. Hence, Statement E is incorrect for the purpose of distinguishing between common intention and similar intention.

Solution Statement:

Given the analysis above, the correct answer is option 2, which states that (A) Mahabub Shah v. Emperor (1945) Only makes a distinction between common intention and similar intention. Hence, Statement A is correct in the context of the question asked.

Question 49

The following Articles in the Indian Constitution deal with protection of Environment and /or places:

(A) Art. 51 A (g)

(B) Art. 40

(C) Art. 48 A

(D) Art. 51 A (j)

(E) Art. 49

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C) and (E) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D) and (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C) and (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (C) and (E) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement A (Art. 51 A (g)): This part of the Indian Constitution falls under the Fundamental Duties of citizens. It specifically obligates every citizen to protect and improve the natural environment including forests, lakes, rivers, and wildlife, and to have compassion for living creatures. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement B (Art. 40): This article is part of the Directive Principles of State Policy. It directs the State to organize village panchayats and endow them with the necessary powers and authority to enable them to function as units of self-government. This article does not directly deal with the protection of the environment. Hence, Statement B is incorrect.

Statement C (Art. 48 A): This article is also a part of the Directive Principles of State Policy. It explicitly directs the State to protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Statement D (Art. 51 A (j)): This part of the Indian Constitution falls under the Fundamental Duties. It urges the citizens to strive towards excellence in all spheres of individual and collective activity so that the nation constantly rises to higher levels of endeavor and achievement. This article does not directly address environmental protection. Hence, Statement D is incorrect.

Statement E (Art. 49): This article obligates the State to protect every monument or place or object of artistic or historic interest declared by or under law made by Parliament to be of national importance from spoilage, disfigurement, destruction, removal, disposal or export, as the case may be. While it deals with the protection of cultural heritage, it does not specifically address the broader environmental protection. Hence, Statement E is incorrect for the context of environmental protection in the broader sense but correct in general sense.

Therefore, Option 1 (A), (C) and (E) Only is correct.

Question 50

Which of the following is part of first generation of Human Rights?

(A) Right to Social Security

(B) Right to Liberty

(C) Equality Before Law

(D) Right to Self determination

(E) Right to life

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (E) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D), (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C), (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(B), (C), (E) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Human rights can be categorized into generations, reflecting the evolution of these rights over time and their recognition by societies and legal systems around the world. First-generation human rights are principally civil and political in nature, aimed at protecting the individual from excesses of the state and ensuring the participation of individuals in the political process. They are primarily associated with the liberty and participation in political life of the citizenry.

Right to Liberty (B): This right is central to the first generation of human rights, emphasizing the importance of personal freedom and protection against arbitrary detention or arrest. It underscores the individual's freedom from undue government interference in personal matters and physical mobility. First-generation human rights focus significantly on safeguarding personal freedoms, among which the right to liberty is paramount.

Equality Before Law (C): This principle ensures that every individual is subject to the law equally and benefits from the same protection without discrimination. It is a foundational aspect of first-generation human rights, which include rights that are mainly civil and political in nature. This principle reinforces the idea that no individual is above the law, and everyone should have access to equal protection and justice, a core civil right entrenched in the notion of democracy and rule of law.

Right to Life (E): Arguably the most fundamental of all rights, the right to life is deeply embedded in the first generation of human rights. This right serves as the cornerstone for all other rights, positing that protecting an individual's life is the primary duty of the state. It emphasizes that everyone has the inherent right to life and is protected by law. The right to life underlines the notion that human life is sacred and must be preserved at all costs, reflecting the spirit of first-generation human rights that aim to safeguard individuals from state atrocities and ensure the dignity and worth of the human person.

In summary, options (B), (C), and (E) - Right to Liberty, Equality Before Law, and Right to Life, respectively, are indeed part of the first generation of human rights. These rights are foundational to the concept of civil and political freedoms, emphasizing protection from state overreach, equality before the law, and the intrinsic value of human life. They form the bedrock upon which individuals can exercise their freedoms, participate in the political life of their community, and be assured of their dignity and safety under the law.

Question 51

Consider the following statement:

(A) Fundamental rights are expressly provided in the US Constitution

(B) Restrictions on fundamental rights are expressly provided in the US Constitution

(C) Fundamental rights and Human Rights are same in India

(D) Directive principles in Indian Constitution are not enforceable by courts

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C), (D) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C), (D)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A), (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement (A): Fundamental rights are expressly provided in the US Constitution

This statement is correct. The US Constitution, particularly through the Bill of Rights (the first ten amendments), as well as subsequent amendments, expressly provides for fundamental rights. These include freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government for a redress of grievances, among others.

Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement (B): Restrictions on fundamental rights are expressly provided in the US Constitution

This statement is partially correct. While the US Constitution does provide for fundamental rights, the restrictions on these rights are not always expressly stated within the Constitution itself. Instead, limitations have been interpreted and established through case law and subsequent legislation. For example, the right to free speech is not absolute and can be limited under certain circumstances, such as to prevent incitement to violence or defamation, but these restrictions are more a matter of legal interpretation and statutory law rather than explicit constitutional provisions.

Hence, Statement B is incorrect in the context of being "expressly provided" but acknowledges that restrictions do exist through legal frameworks.

Statement (C): Fundamental rights and Human Rights are same in India

This statement is misleading. In India, "Fundamental Rights" are specifically enumerated in Part III of the Indian Constitution and are enforceable by the courts. "Human Rights," on the other hand, are broader in scope and not limited to those listed in the Constitution. They encompass all the rights inherent to human beings, regardless of nationality, place of residence, gender, national or ethnic origin, color, religion, language, or any other status. Human rights are generally recognized at the international level, as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and other international human rights instruments. While there is a significant overlap between fundamental rights and human rights, they are not exactly the same.

Hence, Statement C is incorrect.

Statement (D): Directive principles in Indian Constitution are not enforceable by courts

This statement is correct. The Directive Principles of State Policy, outlined in Part IV of the Indian Constitution, are guidelines for the state to follow in the governance of the country. Unlike Fundamental Rights, these principles are not justiciable; that is, they cannot be enforced by courts. They are aimed at providing a direction to the state in making laws and policies but do not confer any legal rights upon individuals. However, they are considered fundamental in the governance of the country, and it is the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws.

Hence, Statement D is correct.

Conclusion:

  • From the analysis above, the correct answer is option 2: (A), (D) Only. Statements A and D are correct, while B is not expressly provided in the Constitution, and C is incorrect due to the difference between fundamental rights and human rights in the context of India.

Question 52

In respect of which of the following items India does not have legislations to specifically cover them as Intellectual property.

(A) Traditional Knowledge

(B) Street Art

(C) Publicity Right

(D) Celebrity Right

(E) Computer Programme

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (B), (D) and (E) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (C), (D) and (E) Only 

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C) and (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (C), (D) and (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A), (B), (C) and (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

The question pertains to identifying which items among the given options do not have specific legislation in India covering them as Intellectual Property. Let's analyze each statement:

Key Points 

Traditional Knowledge (A):

Traditional Knowledge in India is protected under various forms, but not through a singular, specific legislation targeting only traditional knowledge. However, India has mechanisms in place, such as the Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL), to prevent the patenting of traditional knowledge in other countries, indirectly protecting it.

Hence, Statement A is incorrect because it implies that traditional knowledge does not have any form of legislative protection, which is not entirely true.

Street Art (B):

India does not have specific legislation that directly addresses the protection of Street Art as Intellectual Property. Street Art falls into a gray area, often considered under copyright law if the work is original and expressed in a tangible medium. However, there's no dedicated law for Street Art.

Hence, Statement B is correct because it accurately reflects the lack of specific legislation for Street Art.

Publicity Right (C):

Publicity Rights, also known as Personality Rights, are not explicitly defined under any specific legislation in India. These rights are generally inferred through case law and are often linked with privacy laws and, to some extent, trademark laws.

Hence, Statement C is correct because it points out the absence of specific legislation for Publicity Rights.

Celebrity Right (D):

Similar to Publicity Rights, Celebrity Rights in India are not governed by a specific piece of legislation. The protection of a celebrity's persona is often through the application of various laws such as copyright, trademark, and privacy laws, as interpreted by the courts.

Hence, Statement D is correct because it reflects the situation that there is no specific legislation for Celebrity Rights.

Computer Programme (E):

Computer Programs are specifically covered under the Copyright Act, 1957 in India. The Act provides for the protection of computer software as a literary work, provided it meets certain criteria of originality and expression in a tangible form.

Hence, Statement E is incorrect because it inaccurately suggests that Computer Programs do not have specific legislation for their protection.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is option 3: (A), (B), (C), and (D) Only.

Question 53

Consider the following statements relating to death penalty:

(A) Death sentence follows deterrence theory

(B) The Parliament of India wants to remove death sentence

(C) Recent amendments in IPC and other proposals have added new offences with death sentence

(D) The parliament wants harsh punishment for heinous offences through capital punishment

(E) After rarest of the rare doctrine the number of capital punishment is reduced

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C), (D), (E) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (D), (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (C), (D), (E) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement A: Death sentence follows deterrence theory. This statement is correct. Deterrence theory posits that the threat of severe punishment will deter people from committing crimes. The death penalty is often justified on the grounds that it serves as a strong deterrent against the most heinous crimes. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement B: The Parliament of India wants to remove the death sentence. This statement is not entirely accurate. While there has been debate and discussion about the efficacy and morality of the death penalty, the Indian Parliament has not taken a definitive stance towards its complete removal. Various laws still prescribe the death penalty for certain offences, indicating that the removal of the death penalty is not a unanimous or clear objective of the Parliament as of now. Hence, Statement B is incorrect.

Statement C: Recent amendments in the IPC (Indian Penal Code) and other proposals have added new offences with the death sentence. This statement is correct. Over time, amendments to the IPC and other laws have indeed introduced the death penalty for additional offences, especially those considered particularly heinous, such as certain cases of rape and terrorism-related offences. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Statement D: The parliament wants harsh punishment for heinous offences through capital punishment. This statement is correct. The introduction of the death penalty for new offences through legislative amendments reflects the intent to impose harsh punishments for particularly grievous crimes, suggesting a legislative preference for using capital punishment as a deterrent for heinous offences. Hence, Statement D is correct.

Statement E: After the rarest of the rare doctrine, the number of capital punishments is reduced. This statement is correct. The "rarest of the rare" doctrine, established by the Supreme Court of India, is applied as a criterion to determine whether a case merits the death penalty. This doctrine has led to a more cautious and judicious application of the death penalty, aiming to ensure that it is imposed only in cases that are exceptionally heinous and where the crime is of such nature that it shocks the conscience of society. Consequently, this has likely contributed to a reduction in the imposition of capital punishment. Hence, Statement E is correct.

Solution Summary:

  • Statement A is correct as it aligns with the deterrence theory.
  • Statement B is incorrect as there is no clear consensus or directive from the Indian Parliament to completely remove the death sentence.
  • Statement C is correct, acknowledging the addition of new offences punishable by death through legislative amendments.
  • Statement D is correct, reflecting the legislative intent to use capital punishment for deterring heinous offences.
  • Statement E is correct, indicating a reduction in capital punishments due to the application of the "rarest of the rare" doctrine.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1: (A), (C), (D), (E) Only.

Question 54

Which of the following statements given below are correct?

(A) "A wrong is an act contrary to the rule of right and justice"

(B) "A moral or natural wrong is an act which is morally or naturally wrong being contrary to the rule of natural justice"

(C) A legal wrong is an act which is legally wrong, being contrary to the rule of legal justice and a violation of the law

(D) A legal wrong is always a moral wrong and a moral wrong is always a legal wrong

(E) Natural and legal wrongs cannot form intersecting circles

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (D) and (E) Only (3) 

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C) and (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (D) and (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B) and (C) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key PointsStatement (A): "A wrong is an act contrary to the rule of right and justice"

This statement is correct. It broadly defines a wrong as any act that goes against what is considered right or just, encompassing both legal and moral realms. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement (B): "A moral or natural wrong is an act which is morally or naturally wrong being contrary to the rule of natural justice"

This statement is also correct. It specifies a category of wrongs that violate the principles of natural justice or morality, even if they are not codified in law. Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement (C): "A legal wrong is an act which is legally wrong, being contrary to the rule of legal justice and a violation of the law"

This statement is correct. It defines a legal wrong as an act that violates the laws or regulations established by a governing body. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Statement (D): "A legal wrong is always a moral wrong and a moral wrong is always a legal wrong"

This statement is incorrect. There are instances where a legal wrong may not necessarily be a moral wrong and vice versa. The legal system does not always encompass all moral principles, and some moral wrongs may not be legislated against. Hence, Statement D is incorrect.

Statement (E): "Natural and legal wrongs cannot form intersecting circles"

This statement is incorrect. Natural (or moral) wrongs and legal wrongs can indeed intersect; some actions can be both morally and legally wrong, while others might be one but not the other. Hence, Statement E is incorrect.

Conclusion:

The correct answer is option 1, which includes Statements (A), (B), and (C) Only. These statements accurately describe the nature of wrongs in the context of justice and law without conflating the distinct concepts of legal and moral wrongs or incorrectly stating their relationship.

Hence, Statements A, B, and C are correct.

Question 55

Which of the following statements in relation to the dissenting judgment of Dr. Radha Vinodpal in the Tokyo Trial can be correctly attributed to him?

(A) War is beyond the scope of International law

(B) Conduct of war is within the scope of the rules of International law

(C) The Pact of Paris brought about no change in the status of war

(D) International law has developed so much so as to make war a crime

(E) Conspiracy is an independent crime under International law

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (C), (D) and (E) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C) and (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B) and (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B) and (C) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

War is beyond the scope of International law:

  • This statement reflects Dr. Radha Binod Pal's perspective that the existing international legal framework, at the time of the Tokyo Trials, did not extend its jurisdiction to the declaration and conduct of war between sovereign nations.
  • He argued that the legal instruments and conventions then in place were not equipped to adjudicate the act of war itself as a crime.

Conduct of war is within the scope of the rules of International law:

  • Despite his views on the war's legality, Dr. Pal acknowledged that the manner in which wars are conducted falls under international law's purview.
  • This refers to the widespread agreement and acknowledgment that rules like those outlined in the Hague and Geneva Conventions set limits and standards for how hostilities should be carried out, particularly in terms of treatment of civilians and prisoners of war.

The Pact of Paris brought about no change in the status of war:

  • The Pact of Paris, also known as the Kellogg-Briand Pact of 1928, aimed to renounce war as an instrument of national policy.
  • However, Dr. Pal expressed skepticism about its practical impact, suggesting that it did not materially alter the legal or moral status of war.
  • He viewed the pact as ineffective in preventing future conflicts or holding aggressive nations accountable under international law, as evidenced by World War II's outbreak and the conduct of Axis powers.

In summary, Dr. Radha Binod Pal's dissent in the Tokyo Trial was complex and nuanced, criticizing the retroactive application of post-war legal standards to judge the conduct of the Axis powers while also pointing out the limitations of international law at the time in governing the state of war and the conduct of nations. His viewpoints underline the challenges and debates around the evolution of international law concerning war and wartime conduct.

Question 56

The Neuremberg Trial classified the crimes punishable under International law into the categories of:

(A) Genocide

(B) Crimes against women and children

(C) Crimes against peace

(D) War crimes

(E) Crimes against humanity

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C) and (E) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C) and (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D) and (E) Only 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B) and (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(C), (D) and (E) Only 

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The Nuremberg Trials were a series of military tribunals held after World War II to bring Nazi war criminals to justice. They established important precedents in international law, specifically around the prosecution of war crimes.

Crimes Against Peace: This category includes planning, initiating, or waging wars of aggression or wars in violation of international treaties and agreements. The Nuremberg Trials played a pivotal role in defining this category, holding individuals accountable for their roles in instigating and perpetuating World War II.

War Crimes: These are violations of the laws and customs of war, which include but are not limited to, the mistreatment of prisoners of war, killing hostages, unnecessary destruction of civilian property, and the killing of civilians. The trials at Nuremberg documented and prosecuted numerous instances of such crimes committed during the conflict.

Crimes Against Humanity: This category covers acts committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population, with knowledge of the attack. This includes murder, extermination, enslavement, deportation, and other inhumane acts done against any civilian population, or persecutions on political, racial, or religious grounds. Nuremberg was the first time that individuals were held accountable on an international stage for such crimes, setting a significant legal precedent.

It is crucial to note that while the concept of "genocide" was recognized during the Nuremberg Trials through the prosecution of what would later be formally known as acts of genocide, the term itself and its specific legal definition were not adopted by the United Nations until the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in December 1948. Therefore, the explicit category of "genocide" as a punishable offense under international law was not a part of the initial classifications used during the Nuremberg Trials.

Crimes against women and children, while reprehensible and part of broader acts prosecuted under war crimes and crimes against humanity, were not classified as a separate category of offenses under the Nuremberg Trials' initial legal framework.

In conclusion, Crimes Against Peace, War Crimes, and Crimes Against Humanity were the primary legal categories under which the Nuremberg Trials classified punishable offenses under international law. Through these categories, the trials established foundational principles for the prosecution of such crimes in future international legal proceedings.

Question 57

Which of the following statements are correct?

(A) In S.S. Lotus case, the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ) defined International Law as "principles which are in force between all independent nations"

(B) Professor Dias suggests that International law can never be called a 'Law'

(C) Lord Halsbury, when he was the Prime Minister of England, once remarked, "It was a misnomer to call international law as 'Law'. It should be better described as a branch of ethics"

(D) Russel has defined International Law as "the aggregate of the rules to which the nations have agreed to conform to their conduct towards one another"

(E) According to Austin, International law is set and enforced by political sovereign authority

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (C) and (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C) and (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (D) and (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A), (C) and (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

In the S.S. Lotus case, the Permanent Court of International Justice (PCIJ) indeed contributed significantly to the understanding of international law. However, the specific definition mentioned in option (A) as "principles which are in force between all independent nations" is a broad paraphrasing and simplification. The PCIJ's judgment mainly focused on the principles related to jurisdiction over offenses occurring on the high seas and did not provide a comprehensive definition of international law as such. The case underscored the principle that states have sovereignty and jurisdiction over their vessels on the high seas, which reflects on international law's consensual and cooperative nature among sovereign states.

The statement attributed to Professor Dias in option (B) simplifies a complex debate about the nature of international law. While it is true that some scholars, including John Austin, have been skeptical about categorizing international law as 'law' in the strict sense due to its perceived lack of a sovereign authority and a systematic enforcement mechanism, this view is not universally held. Many legal theorists and practitioners argue that international law does indeed meet the criteria of law due to its normative character, the obligations it imposes on subjects, and the mechanisms for its interpretation and enforcement, albeit different from domestic legal systems.

The quote attributed to Lord Halsbury in option (C), suggesting international law should be better described as a branch of ethics, captures a perspective held by some critics who view international law as lacking the force and direct enforceability characteristic of domestic law. However, it's important to note that Lord Halsbury was never the Prime Minister of England but rather served as Lord Chancellor. Despite this factual inaccuracy, the sentiment reflects ongoing debates about the nature of international law, emphasizing the challenges of enforcement and compliance in an international system without a centralized governing authority.

The definition of International Law by Russel in option (D) as "the aggregate of the rules to which the nations have agreed to conform in their conduct towards one another" is a widely accepted view. It encapsulates a crucial aspect of international law: it is a system of rules and norms that are created through the consent of states and other international actors. These rules govern the interactions between states, international organizations, and, to some extent, individuals and non-state actors, aiming at promoting peace, security, and cooperation on a global scale.

Option (E) reflects John Austin's positivist perspective, which argues that law is the command of a sovereign to whom people are habitually obedient, and that international law lacks such centralized authoritative command, thereby questioning its status as 'law' in the traditional sense. However, this view is contentious and does not account for the complex realities of international legal practice, where states regularly adhere to international laws and norms, not merely out of moral or ethical considerations but also due to legal obligations and the benefits of reciprocal cooperation.

In conclusion, option 2, consisting of statements (A), (C), and (D), presents the correct combination of statements concerning the framing, interpretation, and understanding of international law among scholars and legal traditions. This option encapsulates the nuanced and evolving nature of international law, recognizing its foundations in state consent and cooperation while acknowledging the debates around its legal status and enforcement mechanisms.

Question 58

According to Austin's definition of ownership, the attributes of ownership are:

(A) Indefinite user

(B) Plenary control over an object

(C) Unrestricted disposition

(D) Bundle of rights

(E) Unlimited duration

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C) and (E) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (D) and (E) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (C) and (D) Only 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B) and (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (C) and (E) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Indefinite user (A): This attribute suggests that the owner has the right to use the property indefinitely. This is a core aspect of ownership, as it implies no fixed end time to the owner's rights to use the property. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Plenary control over an object (B): This means having complete or full control over an object. While this is a significant aspect of ownership, it might be subject to legal and regulatory restrictions, hence not an absolute attribute in Austin's definition of ownership.

Unrestricted disposition (C): This attribute indicates that the owner has the freedom to transfer, sell, or dispose of the property without restrictions. This is another fundamental aspect of ownership, emphasizing the owner's autonomy over their property. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Bundle of rights (D): This concept refers to the idea that ownership is not a single right but a collection of rights, such as the right to use, to exclude others, and to transfer. While this is a common legal theory of property rights, it's not specifically highlighted in Austin's definition as an attribute of ownership.

Unlimited duration (E): This suggests that ownership is not time-bound, aligning with the concept of indefinite use. It underscores the permanence aspect of ownership, meaning the rights of the owner are not limited to a certain period. Hence, Statement E is correct.

Solution:

Statement A (Indefinite user) correctly reflects the idea that ownership rights have no fixed end time, making it a true attribute of ownership according to Austin.

Statement B (Plenary control over an object) is a broad concept but is nuanced by legal restrictions, thus not fitting perfectly within Austin's definition.

Statement C (Unrestricted disposition) accurately captures the owner's autonomy over their property, aligning with Austin's views on ownership.

Statement D (Bundle of rights) is a broader legal theory that encompasses various aspects of property rights but is not specifically cited as an attribute in Austin's definition.

Statement E (Unlimited duration) echoes the permanence and indefinite nature of ownership, which is a key aspect of Austin's definition.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1: (A), (C), and (E) Only, as these statements accurately represent the attributes of ownership according to Austin's definition.

Question 59

Art. 19 of the Constitution of India is automatically suspended if the proclamation of Emergency is declared on the ground of:

(A) War

(B) External aggression

(C) Armed rebellion

(D) Failure of Constitutional machinery in the state

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C) and (D)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C) and (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Answer is (A) War and (B) External aggression

Hint

War and External Aggression:

  • According to Article 358 of the Indian Constitution, the freedoms guaranteed under Article 19 are automatically suspended upon a Proclamation of Emergency due to war or external aggression.
  • This means that the government has the power to limit freedom of speech, assembly, and movement among others, without the need to enact separate laws to that effect, during the period of such an Emergency.

Additional Information

 Armed Rebellion:

  • The suspension of Article 19 freedoms is not automatically applied when an Emergency is proclaimed on the ground of armed rebellion.
  • Although, during an Emergency due to armed rebellion, the state can still restrict freedoms under Article 19 through laws but not automatically by the mere declaration of Emergency itself.
  • This is governed by Article 359 of the Constitution, where it states that laws can be made that may restrict the rights conferred by Part III of the Constitution (which includes Article 19) except rights under Articles 20 and 21.

Failure of Constitutional Machinery in the State:

  • Also known as President's Rule, this type of Emergency under Article 356 relates to state governments and not the entire country.
  • It does not automatically suspend the rights under Article 19 of the Constitution.
  • Although, during such a situation, the central government can assume the state government's powers, but specific suspension of Article 19 rights does not automatically occur as it does during emergencies declared on the grounds of war or external aggression.

Question 60

Fundamental Duties in the Constitution of India under Article 51 A:

(A) can be enforced by the Supreme Court

(B) can be used by the Supreme Court in interpretation

(C) can be amended by the States

(D) has been amended by the Parliament only once

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (B), (D) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(B), (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Fundamental Duties in the Indian Constitution under Article 51A:

  • Can be used by the Supreme Court in interpretation (B):
  • The Supreme Court and other courts can use the Fundamental Duties to interpret the law and the Constitution.
  • These duties, while not enforceable by law, provide a framework for interpreting the Constitution and statutes in a manner that reflects the intention of the framers of the Constitution, promoting a culture of respect for national values and institutions.

Has been amended by the Parliament only once (D):

  • The 86th Amendment Act, 2002, added one more duty to the list of Fundamental Duties contained in Article 51A.
  • Originally, there were ten duties, but with this amendment, an eleventh duty was added, which pertains to the responsibility of parents or guardians to provide opportunities for education to their child/ward between the ages of six and fourteen years.

Additional Information

Cannot be enforced by the Supreme Court (A incorrect):

  • Fundamental Duties, as mentioned in the Constitution, are moral obligations for the citizens of India intended to promote a spirit of patriotism and to uphold the unity of India.
  • However, they are not enforceable by any court. Unlike Fundamental Rights, there is no legal remedy provided directly for the enforcement of any of the duties.
  • They are essentially guiding principles for the citizens.

Cannot be amended by the States (C incorrect):

  • The Constitution of India provides the framework for both the Union and the States, but amendments to the Constitution, including those related to Fundamental Duties, are within the purview of the Parliament of India. States do not have the authority to amend the Constitution.
  • This process is detailed in Article 368 of the Constitution, and it clearly sets out the Parliament's exclusive right to amend the Constitution.

Thus, considering the explanations, the accurate details pertain to the Fundamental Duties being used by the Supreme Court in interpretation, and that there has been one amendment to these duties by the Parliament.

Question 61

Art. 163 of the Constitution of India says that there shall be Council of Minister along with Chief Minister to aid and advise the Governor in exercise of his functions except so far he is required by the Constitution to exercise his functions or any of them in his discretion. Under what circumstances Governor can be called to exercise his discretion?

(A) Appointment of Chief Minister

(B) Dismissal of ministry or Dissolution of Assembly

(C) Submiting report to President for proclamation under Art. 356

(D) Appointment of High Court judges

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (D), (C), (A) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (D), (A), (B) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B), (C) Only

Why this answer is correct

**Discretion of the Governor:**The Constitution of India vests certain discretionary powers in the Governor. These powers enable the Governor to act according to his discretion without seeking the advice of the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers.

Key PointsAppointment of Chief Minister (A):

Post-election, when no single party secures a clear majority, the Governor has the discretion to appoint the leader of the party or coalition that, in his opinion, is most likely to command a majority in the Legislative Assembly as the Chief Minister.

This situation necessitates the Governor to exercise his judgement to ensure the stability and integrity of the State Government.

Dismissal of Ministry or Dissolution of Assembly (B):

If the Council of Ministers loses the confidence of the Legislative Assembly but refuses to resign, the Governor can dismiss the ministry.

Also, the Governor may dissolve the Legislative Assembly upon the recommendation of the Chief Minister or if he believes it is necessary for stable governance.

However, this action is contingent upon various political factors and conventions and is subject to the ultimate discretion of the Governor.

Submitting Report to President for Proclamation under Art. 356 (C):

  • Under Article 356 of the Constitution, if a situation arises where the governance of the state cannot be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, the Governor may recommend to the President of India that such a proclamation may be made.
  • This situation often requires the Governor's discretionary assessment of the state's political and governance conditions.
  • The Governor's discretionary powers are crucial in maintaining the constitutional integrity and political stability of the state.
  • These powers include critical decisions like appointing the Chief Minister in a hung assembly, deciding on the dismissal of a ministry or dissolution of the Legislative Assembly in case of loss of confidence, and assessing the need for President's rule under exceptional circumstances.
  • These actions, taken at the Governor's discretion, are significant in the context of ensuring that the governance of the state aligns with democratic principles and constitutional provisions.
  • The Constitution, thus, provides these discretionary powers to the Governor to act as a vital check and balance in the state's political and governance structures.

Therefore, Option 1 is the correct answer.

Question 62

Art. 28 of the Constitution of India mentions four types of educational institution given below. In which of the following institutions religious instruction can be imparted with the consent of individual or otherwise:

(A) Institution wholly maintained by the state

(B) Institution recognised by the state

(C) Institution that receive aid out of state fund

(D) Institution that are administered by the state but established under any trust or endowment

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (D) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (C), (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(B), (C), (D) Only

Why this answer is correct

Option 2: (B), (C), (D) Only is correct because Article 28 of the Constitution of India addresses the provision regarding religious instruction or religious worship in educational institutions. 

Key Points

(A) Institution wholly maintained by the state:

As per Article 28(1), no religious instruction shall be provided in any educational institution wholly maintained out of State funds. Thus, this option is not correct as it explicitly prohibits religious instruction in such institutions.

(B) Institution recognized by the state:

These institutions can impart religious instruction with the consent of individuals. The prohibition applies only to institutions wholly funded by the state, whereas recognized institutions, not being wholly funded, can include religious instruction as per the consent of the individuals involved. This is in line with Article 28, which restricts the provision only to institutions wholly maintained out of state funds.

(C) Institution that receives aid out of state funds:

Similar to institutions recognized by the state, institutions that receive some aid from the state but are not completely maintained by it may offer religious instruction, again, with the consent of individuals. The constitutional provision restricts only those institutions wholly funded by the state.

(D) Institution that are administered by the state but established under any trust or endowment: These institutions are not wholly maintained by state funds, despite being administered by the state. As such, they can also impart religious instruction with consent, aligning with the constitutional allowance for educational establishments not entirely funded by the state to offer religious education if consent is given.

Overview of other options which are incorrect:

Option 1 (A), (B), (C) Only: Incorrect because it includes institutions wholly maintained by the state, where Article 28 expressly prohibits religious instruction.

Option 3 (A), (C), (D) Only: Incorrect for the same reason as Option 1, including institutions wholly maintained by the state where religious instruction is expressly prohibited.

Option 4 (A), (B), (D) Only: Again, this is incorrect because it includes institutions wholly maintained by the state, where Article 28 prohibits religious instruction.

Question 63

Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 provides that a Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party thereto. Consider the following situations and decide in which case the marriage is validly solemnized?

(A) At the time of marriage all essential shastric ceremonies are performed

(B) At the time of marriage all customary rites and ceremonies of bride's family are performed

(C) At the time of marriage half of the ceremonies of bride's family and other half of the bridegroom's family are performed

(D) Bride and bridegroom decided to perform the simple ceremonies of exchange of rings

(E) Bride and bridegroom started living together as husband and wife without performing any ceremony

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) and (B) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B) and (C) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C) and (D) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (C), (D) and (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A) and (B) Only

Why this answer is correct

Hint

Statement A: At the time of marriage, all essential shastric ceremonies are performed.

Explanation: According to Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, a Hindu marriage is considered valid if it is solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either the bride or the groom's family. Shastric ceremonies, being part of these traditional rites, when performed in entirety, fulfill the requirements laid out by the Act for a marriage to be considered validly solemnized.

Conclusion: Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement B: At the time of marriage, all customary rites and ceremonies of the bride's family are performed.

Explanation: This statement directly aligns with the provision in Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, which states that a Hindu marriage may be solemnized in accordance with the customary rites and ceremonies of either party. Therefore, if all the customary rites and ceremonies of the bride's family are performed, the marriage is considered validly solemnized.

Conclusion: Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement C: At the time of marriage, half of the ceremonies of the bride's family and the other half of the bridegroom's family are performed.

Explanation: While this statement suggests a mix of both families' customs, it may not fulfill the requirement of completing all essential rites and ceremonies as per either family's traditions. The Act mentions the performance of customary rites and ceremonies of either party, but it implies the completion of these rites to validate the marriage. Partial completion from both sides may not meet the legal requirement.

Conclusion: Hence, Statement C is incorrect for the purpose of determining a validly solemnized marriage under the Act.

Statement D: Bride and bridegroom decided to perform the simple ceremonies of exchange of rings.

Explanation: The exchange of rings, while a popular custom in many cultures, may not be considered a complete customary rite or ceremony under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, unless it is specifically recognized as such within the customary practices of either the bride or groom's family. Without additional context or evidence that this act alone is considered a valid customary ceremony for solemnization, this statement cannot be assumed to constitute a valid marriage under the Act.

Conclusion: Hence, Statement D is incorrect regarding the validity of marriage solemnization under the Act.

Statement E: Bride and bridegroom started living together as husband and wife without performing any ceremony.

Explanation: Living together as husband and wife without performing any customary rites or ceremonies does not fulfill the requirements of Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, for a marriage to be considered validly solemnized. The Act specifically requires the performance of customary rites and ceremonies for a marriage to be recognized.

Conclusion: Hence, Statement E is incorrect.

Solution: Based on the explanations above, the correct answer is option 1, which includes Statements A and B as correct. Both statements align with the requirements of Section 7 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, for a marriage to be validly solemnized through the performance of all essential shastric or customary rites and ceremonies of either the bride or groom's family.

Question 64

Under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 sapinda relationship and degrees of prohibited relationship include relationship by:

(A) Full, Half and Uterine blood

(B) Adoption

(C) Legitimate blood

(D) Fosterage relations

(E) Illegitimate blood relations

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) and (D) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B), (C) and (E) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C), (D) and (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (C), (D) and (E) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A), (B), (C) and (E) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Statement A (Full, Half, and Uterine blood): This statement is correct. Under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, sapinda relationship and degrees of prohibited relationship do include relationships by full, half, and uterine blood. This means that individuals who are related by blood directly up to a certain degree cannot marry each other. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement B (Adoption): This statement is also correct. The Act recognizes relationships by adoption and includes them in the category of prohibited relationships. Individuals who are adopted into a family are considered part of that family for the purposes of the Act and thus are subject to the same restrictions on marriage as blood relatives. Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement C (Legitimate blood): This statement is correct. The Act includes relationships by legitimate blood in the degrees of prohibited relationships. This refers to the offspring of legally recognized unions. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Statement D (Fosterage relations): This statement is incorrect with respect to the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. The Act does not specifically include fosterage relations (where a child is raised by someone who is not their biological parent but not legally adopted) in the degrees of prohibited relationships. Hence, Statement D is incorrect.

Statement E (Illegitimate blood relations): This statement is correct. The Act does consider illegitimate blood relations when determining prohibited relationships. This means that individuals who share a common biological parent but were born outside of wedlock are also considered in the degrees of prohibited relationships. Hence, Statement E is correct.

Solution Statement: The correct answer is option 2, which includes Statements A, B, C, and E. These statements correctly identify the relationships considered under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, for sapinda relationship and degrees of prohibited relationship, which are relationships by full, half, and uterine blood, adoption, legitimate blood, and illegitimate blood relations. Statement D, regarding fosterage relations, is not included under the Act's provisions for prohibited relationships, making Option 2 the correct choice.

Question 65

Which of the following provisions in the Information Technology Act, 2000 prescribe punishment for offences:

(A) Section 65

(B) Section 66 D

(C) Section 67 B

(D) Section 52

(E) Section 62

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C) Only

  2. BOption (b)

    (C), (D), (E) Only

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C), (E) Only

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (B), (D) Only

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B), (C) Only

Why this answer is correct

Key PointsStatement (A) Section 65: This section deals with tampering with computer source documents. Tampering or manipulating computer source documents without permission is considered an offense under this section. Hence, Statement A is correct.

Statement (B) Section 66 D: This section pertains to cheating by personation by using a computer resource or a communication device. It specifically targets the offense of identity theft or impersonation in the digital domain. Hence, Statement B is correct.

Statement (C) Section 67 B: This section addresses the issue of child pornography and the punishment for publishing or transmitting material depicting children in sexually explicit act, etc., in electronic form. It's a provision that aims to protect children from sexual exploitation in the digital age. Hence, Statement C is correct.

Statement (D) Section 52: This section does not exist in the context of prescribing punishment for offenses in the Information Technology Act, 2000. The IT Act does not have a Section 52 that deals with offenses or their punishments. Therefore, Statement D is incorrect.

Statement (E) Section 62: Similar to Statement D, the Information Technology Act, 2000 does not include a Section 62 that prescribes punishment for offenses. The sections within the Act that deal with offenses and their punishments are specifically outlined and do not include Section 62. Hence, Statement E is incorrect.

Given the analysis above:

Option 1) (A), (B), (C) Only is the correct answer because these sections (Section 65, Section 66 D, and Section 67 B) specifically prescribe punishment for offenses as outlined in the Information Technology Act, 2000.

Hence, the correct option is Option 1, as it accurately identifies the sections within the Information Technology Act, 2000 that prescribe punishment for offenses, demonstrating that Statements A, B, and C are correct while Statements D and E are incorrect.

Question 66

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - I CaseList - II Year of Reporting
(A)Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar(I)1981
(B)Kadra Phadia v. State of Bihar(II)1980
(C)M. H. Hoskot v. State of Maharashtra(III)1979
(D)Khatri v. State of Bihar(IV)1978
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A)-(III), (B)-(I), (C)-(II), (D)-(IV)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A)-(IV), (B)-(III), (C)-(II), (D)-(I)

  3. COption (c)

    (A)-(I), (B)-(II), (C)-(III), (D)-(IV) 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A)-(III), (B)-(II), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(A)-(III), (B)-(II), (C)-(IV), (D)-(I)

Why this answer is correct

To match the cases with their respective years of reporting and to explain each, we will go through them one by one in the format requested.

Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar 1979 - This landmark case is famously known for its emphasis on the right to a speedy trial as a part of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution. It highlighted the plight of undertrial prisoners in Bihar, many of whom had been in jail for longer than the maximum term they could have been sentenced to if convicted. The Supreme Court, led by Justice P.N. Bhagwati, delivered the judgment in 1979, marking a significant step towards ensuring justice and fair treatment for undertrial prisoners in India.

Kadra Pahadiya (Phadia) v. State of Bihar 1980 - While this case is less widely recognized and appears to have been mistakenly listed as "Kadra Phadia" with incorrect year options, there are notable cases involving the Pahadia tribe and legal matters in Bihar around the early 1980s. However, specific case details and the exact year might need clarification or correction in the question provided. 

M. H. Hoskot v. State of Maharashtra 1978- This case dealt with the right to legal aid and appeal for prisoners. The Supreme Court ruled that the right to legal representation and the ability to appeal a conviction are integral to the right to a fair trial under the Indian Constitution. This landmark judgment from 1978 underscored the importance of providing legal assistance to those who cannot afford it, ensuring that justice is accessible to all. 

Khatri (II) v. State of Bihar 1981 - Also known as the Bhagalpur Blinding case, this was a continuation of the fight against the negligence of the State in protecting the rights of detainees and undertrial prisoners. The Supreme Court, in 1981, reiterated the State's obligation to ensure medical assistance to every detainee and undertrial prisoner, marking a significant moment in the battle for prisoners' rights in India.

Given the correct matches according to the provided solution statement are as follows:

  • Hussainara Khatoon v. State of Bihar - 1979 (III)
  • Kadra Phadia v. State of Bihar - This case's year is not accurately provided in the options, but it's supposed to match with the given context, which seems to have an error or typographical issue in the question.
  • M. H. Hoskot v. State of Maharashtra - 1978 (IV)
  • Khatri v. State of Bihar - 1981 (I)

Therefore, the correct matching, based on the common knowledge and available options, should reflect Hussainara Khatoon and M. H. Hoskot's cases correctly but seems to encounter a discrepancy with the Kadra Pahadiya case, which could be a typographical error or misreference in the original question. The explanation provided focuses on the correctly identified cases and their impact on Indian jurisprudence.

Question 67

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - I UN days relating to IPR
and Biological diversity
List - II Days
(A)World Intellectual Property day(I)April 23
(B)World Book and Copyright day(II)May 22
(C)International Day for Biological diversity(III)April 21
(D)World Creativity and Innovation day(IV)April 26
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

Why this answer is correct

Based on the information provided regarding UN days relating to Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) and Biological Diversity, and the given days, here's how each item matches and a comprehensive explanation for each:

Key Points

(A) World Intellectual Property Day matches with (IV) April 26. This day is designated by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) to learn about the role that intellectual property rights (patents, copyrights, trademarks, industrial designs, etc.) play in encouraging innovation and creativity. This celebration helps people understand how IP contributes to the flourishing of music and the arts and to driving the technological innovation that helps shape our world.

(B) World Book and Copyright Day matches with (I) April 23. UNESCO established this day to promote reading, publishing, and copyright. April 23 is a symbolic date for world literature as it is the date of death for several prominent authors such as William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes. The day aims to encourage everyone, and particularly young people, to discover the pleasure of reading and gain respect for contributions of those who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity.

(C) International Day for Biological Diversity matches with (II) May 22. This day is designated by the United Nations to increase understanding and awareness of biodiversity issues. The Convention on Biological Diversity is a key international agreement to sustain the rich diversity of life on Earth. Each year, it focuses on a theme to produce awareness about the biodiversity and its importance for the Earth.

(D) World Creativity and Innovation Day matches with (III) April 21. This day is recognized by the United Nations to raise awareness of the role of creativity and innovation in all aspects of human development. It encourages individuals to think creatively and use innovation to make the world a better place and to strive for a sustainable future.

In conclusion, option 2) (A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III) is the correct match-up, as it accurately associates each UN day with its correct date, reflecting the global emphasis on promoting Intellectual Property Rights, creativity, the value of books and copyright, and the significance of biological diversity to our planet. These observances highlight the importance of innovation, culture, and the natural world in driving sustainable development and improving human wellbeing.

Question 68

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - I Provision from IT ActList - II Section
(A)Secure electronic Record(I)16
(B)Security procedures and practices(II)15
(C)Secure electronic signature(III)14
(D)Attribution of electronic record(IV)11
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (1), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (I) 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)    

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

Why this answer is correct

The question involves matching provisions from the IT (Information Technology) Act with their corresponding sections. Let's break down the correct matching (option 1) and explain each one:

Key PointsSecure electronic Record (A) - (III)

Section 14: This section of the IT Act deals with secure electronic records. It outlines the requirements and standards that must be met for an electronic record to be considered secure. This includes aspects like the method of creation, storage, and transmission of the record, ensuring its integrity and confidentiality.

Security procedures and practices (B) - (I)

Section 16: This section focuses on the security procedures and practices that must be adopted to protect electronic records and electronic signatures. It mandates the use of secure methods and technologies to prevent unauthorized access, alteration, or destruction of electronic records and signatures.

Secure electronic signature (C) - (II)

Section 15: This section is dedicated to secure electronic signatures. It defines what constitutes a secure electronic signature, ensuring that such signatures are reliable, authentic, and meet specified standards of integrity. The section lays down the criteria that electronic signatures must fulfill to be considered secure and legally valid.

Attribution of electronic record (D) - (IV)

Section 11: This section addresses the attribution of electronic records to a specific originator. It establishes the conditions under which an electronic record can be attributed to a person and how the intentions of the parties involved are determined. This is crucial for establishing the validity and authenticity of electronic records in legal and contractual contexts.

In summary, the correct matching and explanations are as follows:

  • (A) Secure electronic Record is matched with Section 14, which outlines the standards for electronic records to be considered secure.
  • (B) Security procedures and practices are matched with Section 16, focusing on the adoption of secure methods to protect electronic records and signatures.
  • (C) Secure electronic signature is matched with Section 15, defining the criteria for electronic signatures to be considered secure.
  • (D) Attribution of electronic record is matched with Section 11, detailing how electronic records are attributed to an originator.

Question 69

Given below are two statements: One is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A): Trade Secrets Act, 2020 is a legislation enacted in India to provide for confidential informations and trade secrets

Reason (R): India has enacted a number of legislations to create legal framework on intellectual property rights (IPRs)

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) is correct but (R) is not correct

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(A) is not correct but (R) is correct

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The given data row from the sheet presents an assertion (A) and a reason (R) related to Indian legislation on intellectual property rights (IPRs), specifically focusing on trade secrets. Let's analyze both statements and their interrelation to determine the correct option among the given choices.

<br>

Assertion (A): "Trade Secrets Act, 2020 is a legislation enacted in India to provide for confidential informations and trade secrets."

<br>

Upon examining this assertion, it's important to note that, as of my last update in 2023, there is no specific legislation in India titled "Trade Secrets Act, 2020." India does not have a standalone act for the protection of trade secrets. Instead, trade secret protection in India is largely governed by contractual agreements and falls under the ambit of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, along with being supported by principles of common law. Therefore, the assertion (A) is not correct.

<br>

Reason (R): "India has enacted a number of legislations to create a legal framework on intellectual property rights (IPRs)."

<br>

This reason is accurate. India has a comprehensive legal framework for intellectual property rights, which includes various legislations such as the Patent Act, 1970, the Trademarks Act, 1999, the Copyright Act, 1957, and the Designs Act, 2000, among others. These laws collectively create a robust legal framework for the protection of IPRs in India. Thus, the reason (R) is correct.

Given the analysis:

Assertion (A) is not correct because there is no such legislation as the "Trade Secrets Act, 2020" in India.

Reason (R) is correct as India has indeed enacted several legislations to protect intellectual property rights.

Therefore, the correct option is:

  1. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.

Question 70

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A): The tests of proportionality, necessity and balancing are found at prominent places in the GATS, the GATT as well as in the SPS and TBT Agreements

Reason (R): The meaning of these tests and their interrelationship is not always clear

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) is correct but (R) is not correct

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

Why this answer is correct

The assertion (A) and reason (R) statements provided are centered around the legal tests of proportionality, necessity, and balancing within the context of international trade law, specifically referring to agreements such as the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), the General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS), and the agreements on Sanitary and Phytosanitary Measures (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT).

Hint

Assertion (A): The assertion states that the tests of proportionality, necessity, and balancing are found at prominent places in the GATS, the GATT, as well as in the SPS and TBT Agreements. This statement is accurate. These tests are indeed critical components of these international agreements, designed to ensure that regulations imposed by countries are fair, necessary for protecting health, safety, or environment, and are not more trade-restrictive than necessary. For example, the necessity and proportionality tests are used in the context of GATT Article XX, which allows for exceptions to the general rules under specific circumstances deemed necessary to protect human, animal, or plant life or health, among other objectives. Similarly, principles related to these tests are embedded in the SPS and TBT agreements, focusing on ensuring that sanitary and phytosanitary measures and technical regulations, respectively, do not create unnecessary obstacles to international trade.

Reason (R): The reason given is that the meaning of these tests and their interrelationship is not always clear. This statement is also correct. While these tests are fundamental to the operation of the aforementioned agreements, their application in specific cases can lead to interpretive challenges. The World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement bodies often grapple with the precise meaning and application of these tests in diverse cases, where the specific facts and circumstances can lead to different outcomes. The vagueness or lack of clarity in how these tests should be applied in every situation can result in disputes among member countries, requiring careful legal reasoning and judgment by adjudicating bodies to resolve.

Given the statements above, the most appropriate answer is option 2: Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). The reason (R) is not the correct explanation for assertion (A) because the fact that the interrelationships and meanings of the tests are not always clear does not directly explain why these tests are found in GATS, GATT, and the SPS and TBT agreements. Instead, these tests are included in the agreements because they are necessary for balancing the rights and obligations of member states in regulating trade to achieve legitimate policy objectives, such as protecting health or the environment, while ensuring that such regulations do not constitute disguised restrictions on international trade. The complexity and lack of clarity in applying these tests, as mentioned in reason (R), is more of an observation on the practical and interpretive challenges faced in the application of these principles, rather than an explanation for their presence in the agreements.

Question 71

Given below are two statements:

Statement (I): The doctrine of stare decisis has essentially developed as a result of progress made in law-reporting

Statement (II): Since the law in India is mostly based on the English Law, the system of law reporting is fairly developed in India

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    Both Statement I and Statement II are correct

  2. BOption (b)

    Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect

  3. COption (c)

    Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect

  4. DOption (d)

    Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Both Statement I and Statement II are correct

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Statement (I) Analysis:

  • The doctrine of stare decisis, which means "to stand by things decided," is a legal principle that requires courts to follow the rulings of previous cases in similar circumstances.
  • This doctrine has indeed developed significantly with the advancement in law reporting. Law reporting, which involves the systematic documentation of court decisions, has made it easier for courts to access and review past rulings.
  • Without comprehensive law reporting, the application of the doctrine of stare decisis would be challenging, as it would be difficult for courts to find and apply previous decisions.

Hence, Statement I is correct.

Statement (II) Analysis:

  • India inherited much of its legal system from British colonial rule, including the common law system, which relies heavily on the doctrine of precedent and, by extension, on law reporting.
  • The system of law reporting in India is indeed well-developed, mirroring the tradition of detailed law reporting found in English law. This has facilitated the application of the doctrine of stare decisis in India, allowing for consistency and predictability in legal decisions.
  • The Indian legal system has adapted and expanded upon the English law reporting system, incorporating its own legal principles and decisions, but the foundation remains rooted in the practices established under English law.

Hence, Statement II is correct.

Conclusion:

Both Statement I and Statement II are correct as they accurately describe the development and significance of the doctrine of stare decisis in relation to law reporting, and the influence of English law on the Indian legal system's approach to law reporting.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 1.

Question 72

Given below are two statements: one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A): Mahr (dower) is a sum of money which the Muslim husband agrees to pay to the wife as a mark of respect for her for agreeing to marry him. Since Muslim marriage is a contract, it is necessary that dower must be specified at the time of marriage and if it is not specified it can be presumed.

Reason (R): If not paid earlier, Mahr become due on death of the husband or the dissolution of marriage by divorce

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) is correct but (R) is not correct

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

Why this answer is correct

The given statements relate to the concept of Mahr (dower) in Islamic law, which is an important aspect of Muslim marriages.

Key PointsAssertion (A) states that Mahr is a sum of money which the Muslim husband agrees to pay to his wife as a mark of respect for her agreement to marry him, and that it must be specified at the time of marriage or it can be presumed. This statement is correct. In Islamic law, Mahr is indeed a mandatory payment, in the form of money or possessions, paid or promised to be paid by the groom to the bride at the time of marriage. It is considered a woman's right, which she is entitled to receive from her husband. The specification of Mahr at the time of marriage underscores the contractual nature of a Muslim marriage, and in cases where it is not specified, it can indeed be presumed or determined based on customary or reasonable amounts.

Reason (R) explains that if Mahr is not paid earlier, it becomes due on the death of the husband or the dissolution of marriage by divorce. This statement is also correct. Mahr is essentially a part of the marriage contract, and its payment can be immediate (mu'ajjal) or deferred (muwajjal). If it has not been paid upfront or during the marriage, it becomes a debt on the husband that must be fulfilled upon his death or in the event of a divorce.

The relationship between Assertion (A) and Reason (R) lies in the contractual nature of Mahr in an Islamic marriage. The assertion outlines the requirement and the significance of Mahr in the marriage contract, while the reason provides information on when the unpaid part of Mahr becomes due, highlighting the obligations of the husband towards the wife as part of the marriage contract.

Correct Option: Option 1, "Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)," is the most appropriate choice.

Read the following passage and answer the questions:

In India, the protection and enforcement of human rights confined to "Civil and Political Rights" in the form of "Fundamental Rights" (Part III) and "Economic, Social and Cultural Rights" in the form of "Directive Principles" (Part IV) in the Constitution of India discusses the vision of the Constitution and its framers of the kind of society they aspired to establish in the country. The framers of the Constitution were quite clear in assingning an equal role to each and every individual in the political process and decision making. Not only did they provide for universal adult suffrage but they also provide for affirmative steps in the form of seats allocation or reservation in election bodies for those incapable of competing in political process on equal footing. For effective participation in that process as well as for leading a dignified life, which they did not want to leave to the political process alone or postpone for the future, they also provided for Fundamental Rights and Directive principles, which have been distinguished as the conscience of the Constitution, and harmony and balance between them, have been found to be among the basic feature to the Constitution. Part IV A of the Constitution of India title "Fundamental duties" (Article 51 A) provides that every citizen must do his duty towards the nation as well as the fellow citizens.

Question 73

Which Part of the Constitution of India discusses the vision of the Constitution and its framers as to which kind of society they aspired to establish in the country? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Art 51 A

  2. BOption (b)

    Part III and part IV

  3. COption (c)

    Part IV Only

  4. DOption (d)

    Part dealing with affirmative steps

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Part III and part IV

Why this answer is correct

Hint 

Part III and IV of the Constitution of India collectively embody the vision of the Constitution's framers regarding the kind of society they aspired to establish in the country. These parts articulate a balance between individual rights and the goals of a socio-economic nature that the state aims to achieve, framing the ethos of a welfare state grounded in the principles of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Part III: Fundamental Rights

  • Constitutes the cornerstone of individual liberty and the bedrock of democracy in India.
  • It guarantees civil liberties allowing individuals to lead their lives in peace and harmony as citizens of India.
  • Includes rights such as Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23-24), Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25-28), Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29-30), and the Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32).
  • These rights are enforceable in a court of law, ensuring protection against the arbitrary or tyrannical rule by the state.

Part IV: Directive Principles of State Policy

  • Provides a framework for establishing an economic and social democracy, as envisaged by the framers of the Constitution.
  • These principles are guidelines for the state in the governance of the country and aim at creating conditions where the citizens can lead a good life.
  • Includes directives for providing adequate means of livelihood, equitable distribution of wealth, prevention of concentration of wealth, right to work, to education, and to public assistance in certain cases.
  • Although not enforceable by any court, these principles are fundamental in the governance of the country and aim at establishing a welfare state.

Vision of a Harmonious Society

  • The framing of both Part III and IV reflects a vision of a balanced society where individual freedoms are honored without losing sight of the larger goals of societal well-being and national development.
  • They are meant to ensure that the government does not encroach upon individual liberties while it works towards the greater goal of a socio-economically equitable society.

Interplay between Parts III and IV

The Supreme Court of India has emphasized the importance of harmonizing the rights under Part III with the goals and ambitions articulated in Part IV, recognizing that these two parts are complementary and not antagonistic.

This interplay reflects the framers' vision of achieving an inclusive social order that is just, equitable, and adheres to the principles of democracy and welfare.

In summary, Parts III and IV of the Constitution of India encapsulate the vision of its framers, aspiring to establish a society that balances individual rights with collective social and economic goals, navigating towards a just, free, and equitable social order.

Question 74

The notion that every citizen must do his duty towards the nation as well as the fellow citizen is incorporated in the Indian Constitution in ______.

  1. AOption (a)

    Part III

  2. BOption (b)

    Part IV

  3. COption (c)

    Part IV A 

  4. DOption (d)

    Preamble

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Part IV A 

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The notion that every citizen must do his duty towards the nation as well as the fellow citizen is incorporated in the Indian Constitution in Part IVA (Article 51A) - Fundamental Duties. 

Part IVA, through Article 51A, specifies the fundamental duties of every citizen of India. These duties include, among others, respecting the Constitution, the national flag, and the national anthem; cherishing the noble ideals of the freedom struggle; upholding and protecting the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India; and promoting harmony among all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic, and regional or sectional diversities. This part underscores the significance of duties in the life of a citizen in conjunction with the rights they are entitled to, emphasizing a balance between rights and responsibilities for the progress and harmony of the nation.

Question 75

Which of the following is part of the basic feature of the Constitution?  

  1. AOption (a)

    Fundamental Duties

  2. BOption (b)

    Directive policies

  3. COption (c)

    Political process and decision making

  4. DOption (d)

    Harmony and balance between Part III and Part IV

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Harmony and balance between Part III and Part IV

Why this answer is correct

"Harmony and balance between Part III and Part IV," is considered a part of the basic structure of the Indian Constitution. The basic structure doctrine, established by the Supreme Court of India through various landmark judgments, states that certain fundamental features of the Constitution cannot be altered or destroyed through amendments by the Parliament.

Key Points

Harmony and Balance between Part III and Part IV: This principle embodies the essence of ensuring that individual rights (Part III: Fundamental Rights) and the directives for the State policy aimed at welfare measures (Part IV: Directive Principles of State Policy) work in coherence, rather than in conflict. The Supreme Court has underscored the necessity of harmonizing rights with social and economic goals to achieve the collective welfare without compromising on individual freedoms. This interplay creates a dynamic process through which the state endeavors to achieve a just social order, making it a foundational feature that supports the Constitution's integrity and ethos. 

Understanding the significance of maintaining a balance between ensuring individual rights and achieving broader socio-economic goals illustrates the vision of a progressive, inclusive society that the framers of the Indian Constitution aspired to establish. This harmony and balance have been recognized as part of the Constitution's unamendable basic structure, ensuring that the fundamental ethos of the Constitution remains preserved against potential encroachments.

Question 76

Which is distinguished as the 'Conscience' of the Constitution? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Fundamental Duties

  2. BOption (b)

    Preamble

  3. COption (c)

    Universal adult suffrage

  4. DOption (d)

    Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles

Why this answer is correct

"Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles," is often distinguished as the 'Conscience' of the Indian Constitution. This recognition stems from their crucial role in embodying the core values, ethical standards, and aspirations that guide the functioning of the state and the behavior of its citizens. Together, they reflect the philosophical foundation and the moral compass of the Constitution, aiming to establish a just, equitable, and humane society.

Key Points

Fundamental Rights (Part III): These rights are indispensable for the enjoyment of individual freedoms and the development of one's personality in a free and democratic society. They are enforceable by the courts, safeguarding citizens against any arbitrary actions of the state and ensuring respect for human dignity. 

Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV): While these are not enforceable by the courts for any legal remedy, they provide the direction and the objectives for the state to achieve, aiming at the establishment of a welfare state. They embody the socio-economic goals that the state should strive to achieve, promoting the well-being of all its citizens.

The symbiotic relationship between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles underscores the Constitution's vision of not just political democracy but also socio-economic justice. This relationship ensures that the state's governance does not merely concentrate on the power structure but actively works towards enhancing the quality of life for its citizens, balancing individual liberties with the collective good.

Thus, the interplay and the intended harmonization between the Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles are often referred to as the 'Conscience' of the Indian Constitution because they together facilitate the achievement of its higher values and principles. This conjunction acts as a guiding light for the nation in its pursuit of a more equitable and just order, reflecting the moral aspirations and the doctrinal essence of the Constitution.

Question 77

The protection and enforcement of Human Rights under Article 32 is confined in India to: 

  1. AOption (a)

    Fundamental Rights

  2. BOption (b)

    Economic, Social and Cultural Rights

  3. COption (c)

    Fundamental Duties

  4. DOption (d)

    Right to Vote

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Fundamental Rights

Why this answer is correct

Article 32 of the Indian Constitution is specifically concerned with the protection and enforcement of Fundamental Rights. This article is often referred to as the "heart and soul" of the Constitution by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, given its critical role in safeguarding individual liberties.

Hint

Article 32 provides for the right to constitutional remedies, enabling individuals to move the Supreme Court directly in case of any violation of their Fundamental Rights. The Supreme Court is empowered under this article to issue orders or writs, including habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto, and certiorari, to enforce the rights of individuals. 

Economic, Social and Cultural Rights are part of the Directive Principles of State Policy under Part IV of the Constitution and are not directly enforceable in courts of law. While they are fundamental for governance and the state is mandated to apply these principles in making laws, breaches of these rights do not have the provision for direct remedy under Article 32.

Fundamental Duties enumerated under Article 51A, part of Part IVA of the Constitution, signify the moral obligations of all citizens but do not entail direct enforceable rights for individuals and thus are not protected under Article 32.

Right to Vote is a constitutional right provided under Article 326 of the Constitution, categorized under the legal right for every citizen. Though extremely important for democracy, it is not considered a Fundamental Right protected under Article 32 but rather a constitutional right.

Therefore, Article 32 specifically provides the means to protect and enforce Fundamental Rights, making option 1 the correct answer.

Question 78

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - I
Enactment
List - II
Year
(A)The Civil Rights Act(I)1955
(B)The Probation of offenders Act(II)1956
(C)The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act(III)1958
(D)The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act(IV)1971
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (III), (D) - (I)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (I), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (II)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (I), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A) - (I), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

Why this answer is correct

Match column 1 with column 2 and explain each pointer in comprehensive way in bullet/tabuler form.

Key Points

(A) The Civil Rights Act:

The Civil Rights Act mentioned is likely referring to the landmark legislation passed in the United States. The most famous Civil Rights Act was enacted in 1964. However, it isn't directly matching any of the years given in List - II. The Civil Rights Movement in the U.S. saw significant activity around the years mentioned, but it seems there might be some confusion or a need for specificity regarding which Civil Rights Act is being referred to, as there have been several, both before and after 1964. Given the options, none directly matches 1964, so it's possible the question intends to refer to a different act or there's a misalignment in the years provided.

(B) The Probation of Offenders Act:

This act provides for the release of offenders on probation or after due admonition. In India, The Probation of Offenders Act was enacted in 1958. This legislation allows for the release of first-time offenders who commit non-serious crimes on probation instead of sentencing them to prison time. Therefore, it should be matched with (III) 1958.

(C) The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act:

This act, often abbreviated as ITPA, is aimed at preventing human trafficking and sexual exploitation for commercial purposes. In India, it was originally passed in 1956 as the Suppression of Immoral Traffic in Women and Girls Act (SITA) and later amended and renamed. It should correctly be matched with (II) 1956.

(D) The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act:

This act provides for the legal termination of pregnancy under certain conditions. In India, The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act was enacted in 1971. This act was a significant step towards providing women the legal right to abort under specific circumstances, focusing on the safety and well-being of the woman. Hence, it should be matched with (IV) 1971.

Given this explanation, the correct matching based on the enactment years is:

(A) The Civil Rights Act - This does not perfectly align with any of the years provided based on the famous 1964 US Act. However, without a specific year match in the options and considering it is not accurately listed, we proceed with other matches based on the provided options and known facts.

(B) The Probation of Offenders Act - (III) 1958

(C) The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act - (II) 1956

(D) The Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act - (IV) 1971

Reflecting on these matches, the correct option is:

Option 3: (A) - (1), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

Question 79

Match List I with List - II.

List - I CaseList - II Issue/Concept/Principle
(A)Linkletter v. Walker(I)Prospective overruling in the context of constitutional interpretation
(B)Golak Nath v. State of Punjab(II)Right to register a "none of the above" vote
(C)Jolly George Varghese v. Bank of Cochin(III)Importation of provision from ICCPR into Indian Constitutional law
(D)People's Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India(IV)Prospective overruling in the context of criminal procedure

 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (1), (B) - (IV), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (I)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), (D) - (II)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (III), (D) - (II)

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The correct match between List I (Case) and List II Issue/Concept/Principle) as per the given options is as follows:

(A) Linkletter v. Walker (IV) Prospective overruling in the context of criminal procedure 

 (B) Golak Nath v. State of Punjab (I) Prospective overruling in the context of constitutional interpretation 

(C) Jolly George Varghese v. Bank of Cochin (III) Importation of provision from ICCPR into Indian Constitutional law 

(D) People's Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India | (II) Right to register a "none of the above" vote

(A) Linkletter v. Walker undefined (IV) Prospective overruling in the context of criminal procedure:

This case is significant for establishing the principle of prospective overruling in the context of criminal procedure within the U.S. legal system. It means that certain court decisions would apply only to future cases, not affecting cases that were decided before the new ruling was made.

<br>

(B) Golak Nath v. State of Punjab undefined (I) Prospective overruling in the context of constitutional interpretation:

In this landmark decision by the Supreme Court of India, the doctrine of prospective overruling was introduced into Indian constitutional law. The court held that its decision would have prospective effect, which meant that the rights and privileges under the constitution as interpreted in this judgment would apply to future cases and not to the cases that were settled before this judgment.

<br>

(C) Jolly George Varghese v. Bank of Cochin undefined (III) Importation of provision from ICCPR into Indian Constitutional law:

The Supreme Court of India, in this case, incorporated principles from the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) into Indian law, especially regarding civil liberties and the rights of individuals against detention for inability to fulfill a contract.

<br>

(D) People's Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India undefined (II) Right to register a "none of the above" vote:

  • This case is significant for the Supreme Court of India's decision to allow voters the right to register a "none of the above" (NOTA) vote, enhancing democratic principles and giving voters the ability to express their dissatisfaction with the candidates in electoral processes.

Question 80

Match List I with List - II.

List - IList - II
(A)Malice in Law(I)Commission of an unlawful Act which are actionable per
se
(B)Malfeasance(II)Improper performance of a lawful act
(C)Misfeasance(III)Omission to perform an act when there is obligation to perform it
(D)Non-feasance(IV)Intentional doing of a wrongful act and improper motive

 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (1), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (IV), (D) - (I)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A) - (IV), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (III)

Why this answer is correct

The task involves matching legal concepts (List I) with their definitions (List II) and explaining each. Here is a comprehensive explanation in table format:

A) Malice in Law IV) Intentional doing of a wrongful act and improper motive -

Malice in Law refers to the intention behind committing an act that is wrongful. It's not just about doing something wrong, but doing it with an improper motive, such as intent to harm. This concept is crucial in legal settings where the motivation behind an act can affect the severity of the punishment or the nature of the legal remedy. 

B) Malfeasance I) Commission of an unlawful Act which are actionable per se-

Malfeasance is the act of committing something that is illegal. This term specifically refers to an official doing something that is outright unlawful or wrong under the law. These acts are actionable in themselves, meaning they are considered wrong by their very nature, and legal action can be taken without needing to prove damages. 

C) Misfeasance II) Improper performance of a lawful act-

Misfeasance occurs when someone improperly performs an act that they are legally allowed to do. The key distinction here is that the act itself is not illegal, but the way in which it is carried out is improper or negligent. This can lead to harm or damage, for which the person can be held liable, even though the act itself is lawful. |

D) Non-feasance  III) Omission to perform an act when there is obligation to perform it-

Non-feasance is the failure to act when there's a duty to do so. It involves situations where an individual or entity has a responsibility to perform a certain action for the safety or benefit of others and chooses not to. The failure to fulfill this duty can lead to legal consequences if it results in harm or damage. |

In summary, these concepts illustrate different facets of legal responsibility and accountability, highlighting the importance of not only what one does but also how one acts within the bounds of the law.

Question 81

Match List - I with List - II.

List - I SubjectList - II Section of Indian Penal code
(A)Punishment for extortion(I)Section 403
(B)Attempt to commit robbery(II)Section 409
(C)Dishonest misappropriation of property(III)Section 384
(D)Criminal breach of trust by public servant(IV)Section 393

 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (IV)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (II), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A) - (III), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

Why this answer is correct

To match the subjects listed in List-I with the respective sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in List-II and provide a comprehensive explanation for each, the correct matches are as follows:

Key Points(A) Punishment for extortion (III) Section 384-

Section 384 of the IPC deals with the punishment for extortion, which involves putting someone in fear of injury to obtain an advantage. 

(B) Attempt to commit robbery  (IV) Section 393 -

Section 393 of the IPC is concerned with the attempt to commit robbery. This section lays down the punishment for those who attempt robbery but do not succeed. 

(C) Dishonest misappropriation of property  (I) Section 403 - Section 403 addresses dishonest misappropriation of property. This involves taking someone's property dishonestly without their consent. 

(D) Criminal breach of trust by public servant (II) Section 409 - Section 409 focuses on criminal breach of trust by a public servant (or by banker, merchant, or agent). It deals with betraying the trust placed by the public. 

Correct Answer: Option 3

(A) - (III): Extortion, as per IPC, involves forcing an individual to hand over property or valuable security through threatening means. Section 384 specifically outlines the punishment for such an act, which can include imprisonment or a fine.

(B) - (IV): The attempt to commit robbery is a serious offence in itself, even if the robbery is not completed. Section 393 provides the legal framework for punishing such attempts, ensuring that individuals are deterred from attempting such crimes.

(C) - (I): Dishonest misappropriation involves taking someone else's property with the intention of using it unlawfully. Section 403 of the IPC makes it clear that such acts are punishable, protecting property rights.

(D) - (II): When a public servant, who is entrusted with property or with dominion over property, commits a breach of trust, it's considered a more severe offence due to the position of authority and trust. Section 409 IPC specifies harsher punishments for such breaches, reflecting the seriousness of the betrayal.

This matching and the explanations provided are based on the legal definitions and punishments outlined in the Indian Penal Code, ensuring that each subject is correctly associated with its corresponding legal section.

Question 82

Match List - I with List - II.

List – I Name of the caseList - II Subject matter
(A)Githa Hariharan v. Reserve Bank of India(I)Maintenance Rights of Muslim women
(B)Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India(II)Guardianship of a minor child
(C)Danial Latifi v. Union of India(III)Compulsory registration of marriages
(D)Seema v. Ashwani Kumar(IV)Validity of second marriage of a Hindu male after his conversion to Islam

 

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (I), (B) - (II), (C) - (III), (D) - (IV) 

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (III), (D) - (I)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (II), (D) - (I)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (I), (D) - (III)

Why this answer is correct

The correct matching of the cases (List-I) with their subject matters (List-II) is as follows:

Key Points(A) Githa Hariharan v. Reserve Bank of India (II) Guardianship of a minor child 

(B) Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India (IV) Validity of second marriage of a Hindu male after his conversion to Islam

(C) Danial Latifi v. Union of India (I) Maintenance Rights of Muslim women

(D) Seema v. Ashwani Kumar  (III) Compulsory registration of marriages

Githa Hariharan v. Reserve Bank of India (Guardianship of a minor child): This landmark case dealt with the issue of guardianship under the Hindu Minority and Guardianship Act, 1956. The Supreme Court held that the mother could also be the natural guardian of a minor child, not just the father. This was a significant step towards gender equality in guardianship rights.

Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India (Validity of second marriage of a Hindu male after his conversion to Islam): In this case, the Supreme Court addressed the issue of bigamy under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and how conversion to Islam impacted the legal status of a second marriage without dissolving the first one. The Court held that a Hindu marriage can only be dissolved under the Hindu Marriage Act and converting to Islam for the sake of remarrying without divorcing the first wife is not lawful.

Danial Latifi v. Union of India (Maintenance Rights of Muslim women): This case was about the constitutional validity of the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986. The Supreme Court interpreted the Act in a way that ensured Muslim women could get maintenance beyond the iddat period (the period a woman must observe after the death of her husband or after a divorce, during which she may not marry another man), thus providing for their welfare and protection.

Seema v. Ashwani Kumar (Compulsory registration of marriages): The Supreme Court, in this case, directed all the State Governments and Union Territories to make registration of all marriages compulsory, regardless of the religion of the parties. This was aimed at better enforcement of existing family laws and protection of women undefineds rights.

Each of these cases addresses critical issues related to family law, guardianship, marriage, and the rights of women in India, reflecting the evolving nature of Indian jurisprudence in dealing with personal laws and gender equality.

Question 83

Arrange the following cases in the sequence in which they were decided:

(A) Gloucester Grammar School Case

(B) Donoghue v. Stevenson Case

(C) Ashby v. White Case

(D) Rylands v. Fletcher Case

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (C), (D), (B)

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (D), (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D), (B), (A)

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (A), (D), (C)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (C), (D), (B)

Why this answer is correct

To craft a comprehensive solution for the question provided, let's break down each case and its significance in chronological order. This will help us understand why the correct sequence is as stated in the given answer.

Key PointsAshby v. White (1703): This case is significant in the realm of tort law and parliamentary rights. It involved a plaintiff who was wrongfully prevented from voting in an election. The court's decision established the principle that a wrongful act resulting in no direct physical harm can still be actionable due to the violation of a legal right.

Gloucester Grammar School Case (1410): This is an early case in English law which dealt with the issue of competition and loss of business. The case is often referenced in discussions of the history of tort law, particularly regarding the economic torts and the principle of causing loss by lawful means.

Rylands v. Fletcher (1868): This landmark case in English tort law established the principle that a person who uses their land in a way that is non-natural and accumulates something on the land that is likely to do mischief if it escapes, is strictly liable for all the damage which is the natural consequence of its escape. This principle is known as the rule in Rylands v. Fletcher.

Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932): This is a foundational case in modern law of negligence, establishing the principle that manufacturers owe a duty of care to the ultimate consumers of their products. This case laid the groundwork for the modern law of negligence, emphasizing the responsibility to avoid acts or omissions which can be reasonably foreseen to cause harm to others.

Given these details, the correct chronological order of the cases is as follows:

1. Gloucester Grammar School Case (1410): Establishes early tort principles related to economic loss.
2. Ashby v. White (1703): Expands on the concept of actionable rights when a legal right is violated, even without physical harm.
3. Rylands v. Fletcher (1868): Introduces strict liability for non-natural use of land leading to escape of harmful substances.
4. Donoghue v. Stevenson (1932): Lays the foundation for the modern law of negligence and duty of care to consumers.

  • Hence, the correct sequence is (A) Gloucester Grammar School Case, (C) Ashby v. White Case, (D) Rylands v. Fletcher Case, (B) Donoghue v. Stevenson Case.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is option 1: (A), (C), (D), (B).

Question 84

Arrange the following cases relating to advice/direction of the Supreme Court to the State to enact a uniform civil code in the chronological order (advice earlier to later) of their pronouncement:

(A) Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum

(B) Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India

(C) ABC v. State (NCT of Delhi)

(D) Jorden Diengdeh v. S.S. Chopra

(E) John Vallamattom v. Union of India

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (D), (C), (E)

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (D), (A), (E), (C)

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (D), (B), (E), (C)

  4. DOption (d)

    (E), (D), (C), (B), (A)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A), (D), (B), (E), (C)

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Statement A: Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum - This landmark case from 1985 dealt with the issue of alimony and maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, where the Supreme Court ruled in favor of providing maintenance to a divorced Muslim woman, which led to discussions on the uniform civil code.

Statement B: Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India - In this 1995 case, the Supreme Court dealt with the issue of bigamy under Hindu law and the conversion to Islam as a means to circumvent the provisions of the first marriage. The court highlighted the need for a uniform civil code to prevent such legal anomalies.

Statement C: ABC v. State (NCT of Delhi) - This case from 2015 focused on the rights of unwed mothers, emphasizing the need for reform in personal laws and indirectly hinting at the necessity of a uniform civil code for addressing such issues comprehensively.

Statement D: Jorden Diengdeh v. S.S. Chopra - In 1985, this case addressed the legal complexities faced by couples in inter-religious marriages and the resultant legal issues in dissolution of such marriages, pointing towards the requirement of a uniform civil code.

Statement E: John Vallamattom v. Union of India - This 2003 case challenged the constitutional validity of Section 118 of the Indian Succession Act, which discriminated against Christians in matters of wills, leading to observations on the need for a uniform civil code.

Based on the chronological order of the cases:

  • (A) Mohd. Ahmed Khan v. Shah Bano Begum (1985)
  • (D) Jorden Diengdeh v. S.S. Chopra (1985)
  • (B) Sarla Mudgal v. Union of India (1995)
  • (E) John Vallamattom v. Union of India (2003)
  • (C) ABC v. State (NCT of Delhi) (2015)

Hence, the correct answer is option 3: (A), (D), (B), (E), (C), making the statement in the question correct.

Question 85

Arrange the following in chronological order of their Enactment;

(A) Protection of Human Rights Act

(B) National Commission for Women Act

(C) 89th Constitutional Amendment Act

(D) National Commission for Minorities Act

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (D), (B), (C)

  2. BOption (b)

    (C), (B), (A), (D)

  3. COption (c)

    (D), (C), (B), (A)

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (D), (A), (C)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

(B), (D), (A), (C)

Why this answer is correct

To arrange the acts in chronological order of their enactment and to explain why option 4 is the correct choice, we need to look at each act individually:

Key Points

(A) Protection of Human Rights Act: This act was enacted in 1993. Its purpose is to provide for the constitution of a National Human Rights Commission, State Human Rights Commissions in states, and Human Rights Courts for better protection of human rights and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. 

(B) National Commission for Women Act: Enacted in 1990, this act established the National Commission for Women, aimed at reviewing the constitutional and legal safeguards for women, recommending remedial legislative measures, facilitating redressal of grievances, and advising the government on all policy matters affecting women.

(C) 89th Constitutional Amendment Act: The 89th Constitutional Amendment of India, enacted in 2003, made changes related to the bifurcation of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes into two separate bodies. It aimed at providing a more focused approach on issues related to these communities.

(D) National Commission for Minorities Act: This act was put into effect in 1992. It set up the National Commission for Minorities to evaluate the progress of the development of minorities under the Union and States, monitor the working of the safeguards provided in the Constitution and in laws enacted by the Parliament and the State Legislatures.

With the years of enactment in mind, we can arrange these in chronological order:

National Commission for Women Act (1990)

National Commission for Minorities Act (1992)

Protection of Human Rights Act (1993)

89th Constitutional Amendment Act (2003)

This sequence is perfectly represented by option 4: (B), (D), (A), (C).

Here's a brief explanation of why option 4 is correct:

National Commission for Women Act (1990): This was the first among the presented acts to be established, aiming at the promotion and protection of women's rights.

National Commission for Minorities Act (1992): Followed closely by the commission for minorities, focusing on the interests of minority communities within India.

Protection of Human Rights Act (1993): This came next and broadened the scope to human rights in general, setting up commissions at both the national and state levels.

89th Constitutional Amendment Act (2003): Finally, the 89th Constitutional Amendment tailored the approach for addressing the issues and rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes by bifurcating the commission.

Therefore, option 4 correctly lists the chronological order of enactment for these key legislative acts and amendments, reflecting the Indian government's evolving approach to addressing the rights and concerns of various groups within the country.

Question 86

Arrange the following cases in sequence of their year of verdict:

(A) Kesavananda Bharti v. State of Kerala

(B) Sankari Prasad v. Union of India

(C) Golak Nath v. State of Punjab

(D) Sajjan Singh v. State of Rajasthan

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (B), (D), (C), (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B), (C), (D)

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D), (B), (A)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (D), (B), (C)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(B), (D), (C), (A)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key PointsSankari Prasad v. Union of India (1951): This case challenged the constitutionality of the First Amendment to the Constitution of India. The Supreme Court upheld the amendment, stating that the power of Parliament to amend the Constitution under Article 368 also includes the power to amend Fundamental Rights. Hence, Statement (B) is related to the year 1951.

Sajjan Singh v. State of Rajasthan (1965): This case was about the constitutionality of the 17th Amendment Act of 1964. The Supreme Court, by a majority, upheld the validity of the Amendment, reaffirming its earlier stance in the Sankari Prasad case that Parliament could amend any part of the Constitution. So, Statement (D) corresponds to the year 1965.

Golak Nath v. State of Punjab (1967): In this landmark judgment, the Supreme Court overruled its previous decisions and declared that Parliament could not amend the Fundamental Rights of the citizens. This was a shift from its earlier stance. Thus, Statement (C) is associated with the year 1967.

Kesavananda Bharti v. State of Kerala (1973): This historic verdict established the doctrine of the 'Basic Structure' of the Constitution. The Supreme Court ruled that while Parliament had wide powers to amend the Constitution, it could not alter its basic structure. This case is a cornerstone in Indian constitutional law. Therefore, Statement (A) is from the year 1973.

Solution:

  • Option 1: (B), (D), (C), (A) is the correct sequence according to the years of verdict: 1951, 1965, 1967, and 1973 respectively.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 1.

Question 87

Arrange the following in the chronological order of its sequence in the Patents Act:

(A) Consequence of secrecy directions

(B) Grant of patent

(C) Date of patent

(D) Term of patent

(E) Rights of patentee

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (C), (E), (B), (D), (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    (B), (C), (E), (D), (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C), (E), (D)

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (E), (D), (A), (C)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(A), (B), (C), (E), (D)

Why this answer is correct

To solve the given problem, we need to understand each component mentioned in the question and then place them in the correct chronological order as per the Patents Act. Let's analyze each option:

Key Points(A) Consequence of secrecy directions: Section 37 .This refers to the implications or outcomes that arise when a patent application is subjected to secrecy orders due to national interest or security concerns. This is more of an exceptional scenario in the patent process.

(B) Grant of patent: Section 43. This is the step where, after examination and upon satisfaction that the application meets all patentability criteria, the patent office officially awards the patent to the applicant.

(C) Date of patent: Section 45. This is the date from which the patent is considered to be in effect. Typically, it is the date of filing of the application, but it could be different in certain circumstances.

(D) Term of patent: Section 53. This refers to the period during which the patent is in force. In most jurisdictions, this term is 20 years from the filing date of the application.

(E) Rights of patentee: Section 48. These are the rights granted to the patent owner, enabling them to exclude others from making, using, selling, or distributing the patented invention without their permission. Now, placing them in chronological order as per the typical patent process:

Conclusion:

Hence, the correct chronological order is (A), (B), (C), (E), (D).

Therefore, the correct option is option 3.

Question 88

Arrange the following cases decided by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in their chronological order:

(A) Muscat Dhows case

(B) North Atlantic Fisheries case

(C) Savarkar's case

(D) Russian Indemnity case

(E) The Island of Palmas case

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

  2. BOption (b)

    (C), (D), (B), (A), (E) 

  3. COption (c)

    (B), (C), (D), (A), (E) 

  4. DOption (d)

    (C), (E), (D), (B), (A)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

Why this answer is correct

To arrange the cases decided by the Permanent Court of Arbitration in their chronological order and identify the correct option, let’s briefly explore each case:

Key Points

(A) Muscat Dhows case (1905): This case was between France and the United Kingdom concerning the rights of French traders under a treaty of friendship with Muscat. The focus was on whether French subjects had the right to import goods into the territories of the Sultan of Muscat in dhows flying the French flag, free of any duty except that stipulated in the treaty.

(B) North Atlantic Fisheries case (1910): The United States and Great Britain were involved in this case, centering on the fishing rights off the coasts of Newfoundland and Labrador. It was a significant early use of international arbitration to resolve such disputes, setting a precedent for peaceful negotiations over maritime rights.

(C) Savarkar's case (1911): This case involved the escape of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, an Indian nationalist, from British custody while on a ship in the harbor of Marseilles, France. The dispute was between Britain and France over whether France had an obligation to return Savarkar to British custody. The arbitration found in favor of Britain, marking a notable instance of international law applied to extradition.

(D) Russian Indemnity case (1912): In this arbitration, the dispute was between Russia and Turkey over compensation owed to Russian subjects following the 1877-1878 war, specifically focusing on properties and losses endured by those subjects. This case exemplified the use of international arbitration for addressing post-war reparations and indemnities.

(E) The Island of Palmas case (1928): A conflict between the United States and the Netherlands over the sovereignty of the Island of Palmas (or Miangas), located in the Pacific Ocean. The arbitration was groundbreaking in its detailed consideration of territorial sovereignty and the importance of effective occupation of territory. The decision went in favor of the Netherlands, establishing significant precedents in international law about territorial claims and sovereignty.

Based on the brief descriptions and years of judgment, the chronological order of these cases is:

Muscat Dhows case (1905)

North Atlantic Fisheries case (1910)

Savarkar's case (1911)

Russian Indemnity case (1912)

The Island of Palmas case (1928)

The correct order, therefore, aligns with option 1, which lists the cases as (A), (B), (C), (D), (E).

To recap, we start with the Muscat Dhows case that focused on treaty rights, move through the North Atlantic Fisheries and Savarkar's cases, dealing with maritime rights and extradition, respectively, followed by the Russian Indemnity case on post-war reparations, and conclude with the Island of Palmas case, which tackled territorial sovereignty. These cases collectively underscore the breadth of issues the Permanent Court of Arbitration has dealt with and its role in shaping international law principles over time.

Question 89

Given below are two statements: One is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other is labelled as Reason (R).

Assertion (A): Highly developed legal systems strive to create an autonomous apparatus of legal concepts, legal techniques, and legal norms

Reason (R): Law needs to be endowed with logical consistency, predictability and stability

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    Both (A) and (R) are correct but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) is correct but (R) is not correct

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) is not correct but (R) is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

Why this answer is correct

The given question involves two statements labeled as Assertion (A) and Reason (R), with the task of evaluating their correctness and the relationship between them. Here's a detailed analysis:

Key Points

Assertion (A): Highly developed legal systems strive to create an autonomous apparatus of legal concepts, legal techniques, and legal norms.

<br>

Reason (R): Law needs to be endowed with logical consistency, predictability, and stability.

<br>

Assertion (A) posits that advanced legal systems aim to develop a self-sufficient structure comprising legal concepts, techniques, and norms. This assertion holds true because the objective of any mature legal system is to establish a framework that is comprehensive, coherent, and capable of addressing a wide array of legal issues autonomously. An autonomous legal apparatus implies that the legal system can operate and evolve within its own set of principles and rules, without needing constant external inputs for its basic functions.

Reason (R) suggests that for law to function effectively, it must possess qualities such as logical consistency, predictability, and stability. This is a correct statement because these qualities are fundamental to the functioning of any legal system. Logical consistency ensures that laws do not contradict each other, predictability allows individuals and entities to understand the legal consequences of their actions beforehand, and stability provides a reliable legal environment that supports fair decision-making and long-term planning.

Relationship between A and R:

The reason (R) can be seen as providing a foundation for the assertion (A). For a legal system to develop an autonomous apparatus of legal concepts, techniques, and norms, it is essential that the laws embody logical consistency, predictability, and stability. Without these qualities, it would be challenging to build a coherent and effective legal framework that can operate autonomously. Thus, the qualities mentioned in (R) are not just desirable attributes but are necessary conditions for achieving the autonomy described in (A).

Correct Option:

Given the analysis, the most appropriate answer is option 1: Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Question 90

Match List I with List - II. 

List - IList - II
(A)Producer companies(I)Do not necessarily require Memorandum of Association
(B)Statutory companies(II)Association not for profit
(C)Section 8 company(III)Formed to convert cooperative into a company
(D)Small company(IV)Paid up share capital is between 50 lakh-5 crore and turnover is between 2 crore - 20 crore
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (1), (B) - (II), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II) 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (III), (D) - (I)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A) - (III), (B) - (I), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

Why this answer is correct

The task involves matching entities from List I (column 1) with their correct descriptions from List II (column 2). Here's the explanation in a comprehensive tabular form:

Key Points 

(A) Producer companies (III) Formed to convert cooperative into a company-

Producer companies are a special type of company in India, designed for agricultural producers or certain types of producers (artisans, etc.), aiming to facilitate their formation and operation, including converting cooperatives into companies.

(B) Statutory companies (I) Do not necessarily require Memorandum of Association-

Statutory companies are created by a special act of the parliament or a state legislature. They might not require a Memorandum of Association because they are governed by statutory laws rather than the Companies Act. 

(C) Section 8 company (II) Association not for profit-

Section 8 companies are established 'for promoting commerce, art, science, sports, education, research, social welfare, religion, charity, protection of environment or any such other object', provided the profits, if any, or other income is applied for promoting only the objectives of the company and no dividend is paid to its members. Thus, they are essentially associations not for profit. 

(D) Small company (IV) Paid up share capital is between 50 lakh-5 crore and turnover is between 2 crore - 20 crore-

As per the Companies Act, a small company is defined based on its paid-up share capital and turnover. This definition helps in providing certain exemptions and benefits to companies falling under these criteria, making compliance easier for them. 

The correct matching, as specified in the original question, is option 2, which aligns with the explanations provided above. This matching helps in understanding the specific characteristics and legal requirements of different types of companies or associations within the Indian legal framework.

Question 91

Match List - I with List - II. 

List - I ScheduleList - II Description
(A)Fifth Schedule(I)Languages
(B)Eight Schedule(II)Provisions of disqualification on ground of defection
(C)Tenth Schedule(III)Administration and control of scheduled areas and scheduled tribe
(D)Fourth Schedule(IV)Allocation of seats in Council of States
<br>

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A) - (1), (B) - (I), (C) - (IV), (D) - (III)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A) - (III), (B) - (1), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

  3. COption (c)

    (A) - (II), (B) - (IV), (C) - (III), (D) - (I) 

  4. DOption (d)

    (A) - (IV), (B) - (III), (C) - (I), (D) - (II)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(A) - (III), (B) - (1), (C) - (II), (D) - (IV)

Why this answer is correct

The given data pertains to matching various Schedules of the Indian Constitution with their respective descriptions. Here's a comprehensive explanation in a tabular format for each pointer:

Key Points

 (A) Fifth Schedule  (III) Administration and control of scheduled areas and scheduled tribes

The Fifth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the administration and control of scheduled areas and scheduled tribes in any state except the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. It provides for the declaration of Scheduled Areas, constitution of Tribes Advisory Councils, and gives the Governor certain special responsibilities in these areas. 

(B) Eighth Schedule  (I) Languages

The Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution lists the official languages of the Republic of India. As of now, it includes 22 languages. It initially included 14 languages, but additional languages have been added over the years. This schedule underlines the linguistic diversity and cultural heritage of India. |(C) Tenth Schedule (II) Provisions of disqualification on ground of defection  -

The Tenth Schedule, also known as the Anti-Defection Law, was added by the 52nd Amendment in 1985. It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member. It aims to prevent political defections motivated by the lure of office or material benefits. |

(D) Fourth Schedule (IV) Allocation of seats in Council of States-

The Fourth Schedule of the Indian Constitution deals with the allocation of seats in the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) to the states and Union territories. The allocation of seats is based on the population of each state, ensuring representation for each state in the federal structure of the country's governance. |

Conclusion: The correct option that matches each Schedule with its respective description is option 2.

Question 92

Arrange the names of the following jurists in terms of chronological order of their birth:

(A) Jeremy Bentham

(B) John Austin

(C) Sir Henry Maine

(D) Hans Kelson

(E) Immanuel Kant

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

  2. BOption (b)

    (E), (A), (B), (C), (D) 

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (B), (C), (E), (D)

  4. DOption (d)

    (D), (E), (B), (A), (C)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

(E), (A), (B), (C), (D) 

Why this answer is correct

To solve the question, we need to arrange the names of the following jurists in terms of chronological order of their birth:

Key PointsLet's look at each jurist's birth year to understand the chronological order:

  • Jeremy Bentham was born in 1748.
  • John Austin was born in 1790.
  • Sir Henry Maine was born in 1822.
  • Hans Kelsen was born in 1881.
  • Immanuel Kant was born in 1724.

Arranging them chronologically by their birth years, we get:

  1. Immanuel Kant (1724)
  2. Jeremy Bentham (1748)
  3. John Austin (1790)
  4. Sir Henry Maine (1822)
  5. Hans Kelsen (1881)

Now, let's match this order with the provided options:

  • Option 2: (E), (A), (B), (C), (D) - Correct, as it aligns with the chronological order identified.

Solution Statement:

  • Immanuel Kant, being the earliest born (1724), comes first.
  • Jeremy Bentham, born next (1748), follows.
  • John Austin, with his birth year of 1790, comes after Bentham.
  • Sir Henry Maine, born in 1822, is placed after Austin.
  • Hans Kelsen, the latest born among the group in 1881, is last.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2: (E), (A), (B), (C), (D).

Question 93

Arrange following cases in sequence of year they were decided:

(A) Ashbyry Rly Carriage Co. Ltd. v. Riche

(B) Royal British Bank v. Turquand

(C) Mohori Bibee v. Dharmodas Ghose

(D) State Trading Corporation of India Ltd. v. CTO, Vishakhaptnam

(E) Salomon v. Salomon Co. Ltd.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (B), (A), (E), (C), (D)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (B), (C), (E), (D)

  3. COption (c)

    (C), (D), (A), (B), (E)

  4. DOption (d)

    (B), (C), (E), (A), (D)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(B), (A), (E), (C), (D)

Why this answer is correct

To solve the question regarding the sequence in which the listed cases were decided, we will look into each case individually:

Key Points(A) Ashbury Railway Carriage and Iron Co Ltd v Riche (1875): This case is related to the scope of the objects clause in a company's memorandum of association. It ruled that a contract outside the scope of the objects clause was void and not merely voidable.

(B) Royal British Bank v Turquand (1856): This case established the "indoor management rule," also known as the "Turquand Rule," which holds that persons dealing with a company in good faith are entitled to assume that internal company rules are complied with.

(C) Mohori Bibee v. Dharmodas Ghose (1903): This landmark case in the Indian Contract Act determined the competency of minors to enter into contracts. It was held that a minor's contract is void ab initio.

(D) State Trading Corporation of India Ltd. v. CTO, Vishakhapatnam (1963): This case dealt with the question of whether the State Trading Corporation, being a government entity, was exempt from taxation under the Sales Tax Act. The Supreme Court of India held that it was not exempt.

(E) Salomon v. A Salomon undefined Co Ltd (1897): This foundational company law case established the principle of corporate personality, meaning a company is a legal entity separate from its shareholders.

Based on the years these cases were decided, the correct chronological order is:

  1. (B) Royal British Bank v. Turquand (1856)
  2. (A) Ashbury Railway Carriage and Iron Co Ltd v Riche (1875)
  3. (E) Salomon v. A Salomon undefined Co Ltd (1897)
  4. (C) Mohori Bibee v. Dharmodas Ghose (1903)
  5. (D) State Trading Corporation of India Ltd. v. CTO, Vishakhapatnam (1963)

Hence, the correct answer is option 1: (B), (A), (E), (C), (D).

Question 94

Arrange the following UN Conventions in their chronological order:

(A) UN Convention on Biological Diversity

(B) UN Convention on Climate Change

(C) UN Convention Against Transnational Crimes

(D) UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

(E) UN Convention on Jurisdictional Immunities of States and their property

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (B), (C), (D), (E), (A)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (D), (E), (C), (B) 

  3. COption (c)

    (D), (A), (B), (C), (E)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (D), (C), (B), (E)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

(D), (A), (B), (C), (E)

Why this answer is correct

The answer key of the above MCQ has been modified, as question was dropped in the official answer key.

Key Points

To arrange the UN Conventions in their chronological order and select the correct option, we need to know the year each convention was adopted:

(A) UN Convention on Biological Diversity - Adopted in 1992

(B) UN Convention on Climate Change - Adopted in 1994

(C) UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime - Known as UNTOC or Palermo Convention, Adopted in 2000

(D) UN Convention on the Rights of the Child - Adopted in 1989

(E) UN Convention on Jurisdictional Immunities of States and their Property - Adopted in 2004

Arranged in chronological order, they are:

(D) UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989)

(A) UN Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)

(B) UN Convention on Climate Change (1994)

(C) UN Convention Against Transnational Organized Crime (2000)

(E) UN Convention on Jurisdictional Immunities of States and their Property (2004)

Therefore, the correct choice based on the given options is:

option 3) (D), (A), (B), (C), (E)

Question 95

Arrange in chronological order the insertion of the following provisions in the Indian Penal Code:

(A) Section 124A

(B) Section 153A

(C) Section 120A

(D) Section 304B

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

  1. AOption (a)

    (A), (B), (C), (D)

  2. BOption (b)

    (A), (C), (B), (D)

  3. COption (c)

    (A), (D), (B), (C)

  4. DOption (d)

    (A), (D), (C), (B)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

(A), (B), (C), (D)

Why this answer is correct

To provide a solution to the question of arranging certain sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) in chronological order of their insertion, we will examine each of the mentioned sections:

Key PointsSection 124A: This section deals with sedition. It was introduced in 1870 by the British to suppress freedom of expression.

Section 153A: This section pertains to promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony. It was introduced in 1898.

Section 120A: This section defines criminal conspiracy. It was inserted into the IPC in 1913.

Section 304B: This section deals with dowry death and was added to the IPC in 1986.

Therefore, the correct answer is:

  • Option 1: (A) Section 124A, (B) Section 153A, (C) Section 120A, (D) Section 304B
  • Solution Statement: The correct chronological order of the insertion of the provisions in the Indian Penal Code is Section 124A first, followed by Section 153A, then Section 120A, and finally Section 304B. Hence, Option 1 is correct.

Read the passage carefully and answer the following questions:

This is the greatest paradox involved in the doctrine of 'basic features', namely, that though it does not constitute a limitation on the legislature while enacting ordinary legislation, it would operate as a limitation on the Constituent' body, though in the same breath it is conceded that the latter is a Sovereign' authority while the Legislature is not. This means that while determining the validity of an ordinary law, the court can only look into the express provisions of the Constitution or the necessary implications thereof, but when the validity of a Constitution Amendment Act is challenged, the court may travel behind or beyond the express provisions of the Constitution to invoke some principles superior to express provisions to find whether the impunged amendment is in tune with those principles, which are supposed to Constitute the 'norm' behind the specific provisions of the Constitution. In short, it involve an illogical attempt to usher in the doctrines of 'Spirit of the Constitution' or of 'natural law', through the backdoor, to circumscribe the Constitution itself, while it had been openly rejected as a limitation upon ordinary legislation.

Question 96

What does the author consider to be the doctrine used to circumscribe the Constitution? 

  1. AOption (a)

    Doctrine of 'Spirit of the constitution' and 'natural law'

  2. BOption (b)

    Doctrine of 'basic structure' and of 'grund norm'

  3. COption (c)

    Doctrine of 'basic features' and of 'ultra vires'

  4. DOption (d)

    Doctrine of 'Constituent body' and of 'Sovereign authority'

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Doctrine of 'Spirit of the constitution' and 'natural law'

Why this answer is correct

Hint

The author considers the doctrine used to circumscribe the Constitution to be the doctrine of "Spirit of the Constitution" and of "natural law". This is because, according to the passage, when the validity of a Constitution Amendment Act is challenged, the court may invoke principles superior to express provisions, such as the "Spirit of the Constitution" or "natural law", to assess whether the amendment aligns with these overarching principles, despite these doctrines being previously rejected as limitations upon ordinary legislation. Thus, option 1 is correct.

Question 97

What does the author identify as the greatest paradox involved in the doctrine of basic features? 

  1. AOption (a)

    The doctrine does not constitute a limitation on the power of the Parliament, but limits the state legislatures

  2. BOption (b)

    The doctrine ushers in the concept of natural law through the backdoors, while the judiciary get a free run

  3. COption (c)

    The doctrine operates as a limitation on the constituent body as well as legislature when enacting ordinary legislation

  4. DOption (d)

    The doctrine does not constitute a limitation on the legislature while enacting ordinary legislation but operates as a limitation on the Constituent body though the Constituent body is a sovereign authority while the legislature is not

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

The doctrine does not constitute a limitation on the legislature while enacting ordinary legislation but operates as a limitation on the Constituent body though the Constituent body is a sovereign authority while the legislature is not

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

The greatest paradox identified by the author in the doctrine of basic features is that it does not limit the legislature when it enacts ordinary legislation but serves as a limitation on the Constituent body. The paradox arises because, even though the Constituent body is considered a sovereign authority, which implies it has supreme power, it is constrained by the doctrine of basic features. In contrast, the legislature, which is not endowed with the same level of sovereignty, is not subjected to this constraint when passing ordinary laws. This situation is deemed paradoxical because the doctrine imposes restrictions on a body with theoretically higher authority (the Constituent body) while not imposing the same restrictions on the legislature’s enactment of ordinary laws. Thus, option 4 accurately captures the essence of the paradox discussed by the author.

Question 98

Which of the following options reflect the opinion of the author as can be discerned from the cited paragraph? 

  1. AOption (a)

    A critical and negative view of the way the court uses the doctrines of Spirit of the Constitution' and of 'natural law' to circumscribe the Constitution itself

  2. BOption (b)

    Admiration of the court's view that legislative power need not be circumscribed

  3. COption (c)

    Neutral view on the use of basic features by the court to limit the constituent power and the legislative power

  4. DOption (d)

    Positive view on the use of natural law as a limitation on the legislative power and constituent power

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A critical and negative view of the way the court uses the doctrines of Spirit of the Constitution' and of 'natural law' to circumscribe the Constitution itself

Why this answer is correct

Key Points

Option 1 is the correct reflection of the author's opinion based on the passage. The author criticizes the court for using the concepts of the 'Spirit of the Constitution' and 'natural law' to impose restrictions on the Constitution, implying that these doctrines are being applied in a way that the author finds illogical and contradictory, especially since they were rejected as limitations on ordinary legislation. This critique suggests a negative view of the court's approach to circumventing the explicit provisions of the Constitution through these doctrines.

Question 99

While determining the validity of an ordinary law, what can the court look into? 

  1. AOption (a)

    The court cannot look into the express provisions of the Constitution

  2. BOption (b)

    The court can only look into the necessary implications but not the express provisions of the Constitution

  3. COption (c)

    The court can only look into express provisions of the Constitution or the necessary implications

  4. DOption (d)

    The court can only look into the express provisions of the Constitution and not the implications thereof

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

The court can only look into express provisions of the Constitution or the necessary implications

Why this answer is correct

Key Points Option 3 is correct because, as stated in the passage, when determining the validity of an ordinary law, the court can review both the explicit, or express, provisions of the Constitution as well as the necessary implications derived from those provisions. This means that the court has the authority to interpret and apply both the clear, direct statements in the Constitution and the implications that logically follow from those statements when assessing the constitutionality of ordinary legislation.

Question 100

As per the apprehension of the author, when may a court travel beyond the express provisions of the Constitution to invoke some principles superior to the express provisions? 

  1. AOption (a)

    While exercising the judicial power to interpret the constitution

  2. BOption (b)

    When the court wants to assert the power of judicial review

  3. COption (c)

    When the validity of a Constitution Amendment Act is challenged

  4. DOption (d)

    When the validity of an ordinary legislation is challenged

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

When the validity of a Constitution Amendment Act is challenged

Why this answer is correct

HintOption 3 is correct because, according to the passage, when the validity of a Constitution Amendment Act is challenged, the court may travel beyond the express provisions of the Constitution. The passage explains that while ordinary laws are judged strictly based on the express provisions or necessary implications of the Constitution, the evaluation of a Constitution Amendment Act allows the court to invoke principles considered superior to those express provisions. This is to ascertain if the amendment aligns with what are perceived as the foundational norms or the 'spirit' of the Constitution, thereby constituting a special scenario where the court's approach to interpretation is distinctively broadened.

100 questions in the full paper