UPSC Prelims Simultaneous Elections: Constitutional Debate

 

MCQ 1

With reference to the Basic Structure Doctrine, consider the following statements:

1. Parliament can amend any part of the Constitution, including its basic structure.

2. The doctrine was established by the Supreme Court in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973).

3. aThe doctrine limits Parliament’s power under Article 368.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: C. 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect — Parliament cannot amend the basic structure. Statements 2 & 3 are correct.

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📝 MCQ 2

Regarding the proposal for simultaneous elections, which of the following arguments are commonly cited in favour?

1. Reduction in election expenditure

2. Strengthening of cooperative federalism

3. Minimising governance disruptions due to MCC

4. Elimination of no-confidence motions

Select the correct answer using the code below:

A. 1 and 3 only

B. 2 and 4 only

C. 1, 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 3 and 4 only

✅ Answer: A. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

No-confidence motions are not eliminated. Federalism strengthening is debated, not universally accepted.

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📝 MCQ 3

Which of the following best describes the Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?

A. A legally enforceable statute passed by Parliament

B. A set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission

C. A constitutional amendment provision

D. A judicial directive of the Supreme Court

✅ Answer: B. A set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission

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📝 MCQ 4

Consider the following statements about a Parliamentary Joint Committee (JPC):

1. It can be formed to examine a specific Bill.

2. It includes members from both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.

3. Its recommendations are legally binding.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 1 and 2 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: B. 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Recommendations are not binding.

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📝 MCQ 5

Which of the following institutions is primarily responsible for preparing and maintaining electoral rolls in India?

A. Parliament

B. Ministry of Home Affairs

C. Election Commission of India

D. Law Commission

✅ Answer: C. Election Commission of India

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📝 MCQ 6

Which of the following features of the Constitution are considered part of the Basic Structure?

1. Supremacy of the Constitution

2. Federalism

3. Judicial Review

4. Universal Adult Franchise

Select the correct answer:

A. 1, 2 and 3 only

B. 1 and 4 only

C. 2 and 3 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

✅ Answer: D. 1, 2, 3 and 4