BPSM-162 Solved Assignment 2025-2026
BPSM -162: INDIAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Assignment – I
Answer the following in about
Answer the following in about
- Analyse the powers of the Indian Parliament to amend the Constitution.
- Critically examine the limitations of the Trade Union Movement in India.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about
3. Discuss the relationship between Gender and Development.
4. Elucidate the legislative powers of the President of India.
5. Discuss the special powers and functions of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer the following questions in about
3. Discuss the relationship between Gender and Development.
4. Elucidate the legislative powers of the President of India.
5. Discuss the special powers and functions of the Rajya Sabha.
Assignment – III
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question carries 6 marks.
6. Define and explain the concept of Judicial Review.
7. What is the significance of Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution?
8. How does the concept of Collective Responsibility operate in the Indian parliamentary system?
9. Briefly describe the procedure for removing a Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
10. What is Question Hour in Parliamentary procedure, and what purpose does it serve?
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each. Each question carries 6 marks.
6. Define and explain the concept of Judicial Review.
7. What is the significance of Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution?
8. How does the concept of Collective Responsibility operate in the Indian parliamentary system?
9. Briefly describe the procedure for removing a Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
10. What is Question Hour in Parliamentary procedure, and what purpose does it serve?
Answer:
Assignment – I
Answer the following in about 500 words each.
Question:-01
Analyse the powers of the Indian Parliament to amend the Constitution.
Answer:
1. Introduction to Constitutional Amendments in India
The Constitution of India is a dynamic document designed to adapt to the evolving needs of society. While it lays down a stable legal and political framework, it also provides mechanisms for change through amendments. The power to amend the Constitution lies with the Parliament of India, as specified under Article 368. This process ensures that the Constitution remains relevant to the changing socio-political realities of the nation. However, the power to amend is not absolute; it is subject to procedural safeguards and judicial review to prevent abuse.
2. Article 368 – The Source of Amending Power
Article 368 of the Indian Constitution provides the procedure through which Parliament may amend the Constitution. This Article distinguishes between two types of amendments:
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By a simple majority: Certain provisions (like the admission of new states or change in state boundaries) can be amended by a simple majority in both Houses.
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By a special majority: Most constitutional amendments require a special majority, i.e., a majority of the total membership of each House and a two-thirds majority of members present and voting.
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By special majority with ratification by states: For amendments that affect federal features (like the election of the President, distribution of legislative powers between Centre and states), ratification by at least half of the state legislatures is also required.
These classifications ensure that the amending power respects the federal structure and democratic framework of India.
3. Scope and Limitations of the Amending Power
Initially, the Supreme Court in Shankari Prasad v. Union of India (1951) and Sajjan Singh v. State of Rajasthan (1965) upheld the unrestricted power of Parliament to amend the Constitution, including the Fundamental Rights. However, this interpretation was challenged in subsequent cases.
In Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973), the Supreme Court laid down the historic “Basic Structure Doctrine”, ruling that while Parliament has wide powers to amend the Constitution, it cannot alter or destroy its basic structure. This judgment placed significant checks on parliamentary authority, safeguarding features like the supremacy of the Constitution, secularism, separation of powers, and judicial independence.
4. Judicial Interpretation and the Basic Structure Doctrine
The Basic Structure Doctrine emerged as a landmark judicial innovation. The Supreme Court ruled that Parliament’s power under Article 368 is limited and not absolute. While Parliament can amend most parts of the Constitution, it cannot tamper with the essential framework and principles forming its foundation.
This doctrine has been invoked in several important cases, such as:
- Indira Nehru Gandhi v. Raj Narain (1975): Struck down a constitutional amendment that sought to place the Prime Minister’s election beyond judicial scrutiny.
- Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980): Declared parts of the 42nd Amendment unconstitutional for violating the balance between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
Thus, the judiciary acts as the guardian of the Constitution, ensuring that amendments do not erode its core values.
5. Procedure for Constitutional Amendment
The process of amending the Constitution is detailed and rigorous:
- Initiation: An amendment can be introduced in either House of Parliament as a Constitution Amendment Bill.
- Deliberation: The bill must be passed in each House by a special majority.
- Ratification: For amendments affecting federal provisions, ratification by at least 50% of the states is necessary.
- Presidential Assent: The bill becomes law after the President gives his assent. The President cannot withhold assent to a constitutional amendment bill.
This multi-step process is designed to ensure thorough scrutiny and prevent arbitrary changes.
6. Balancing Flexibility and Rigidity
The Indian Constitution is often described as a "flexible-rigid" document. While some provisions can be amended with ease, others require complex procedures. This balanced approach ensures that while democratic reforms and progressive changes can be accommodated, the fundamental identity and ethos of the Constitution remain preserved.
Flexibility allows for necessary evolution, while rigidity protects against political opportunism and short-term populism. This balance has enabled India to adapt to social, economic, and political changes while maintaining constitutional integrity.
7. Political Dynamics and Challenges
Though the process is institutionalized, the power to amend has occasionally been misused for political motives. The 42nd Amendment (1976) during the Emergency is a notable example, where sweeping changes were made to reduce judicial powers and strengthen executive authority. This led to backlash and eventual correction through the 44th Amendment (1978).
Moreover, state governments and regional parties sometimes express concerns over central dominance in constitutional amendments, especially when their consent is not required. Thus, federal tensions can arise depending on the nature of the amendment.
Conclusion
The Indian Parliament wields significant authority to amend the Constitution under Article 368, allowing the legal framework to evolve with the times. However, this power is not absolute. The judicially evolved Basic Structure Doctrine serves as a vital check, ensuring that core principles like democracy, federalism, and rule of law remain untouched. Through its carefully designed procedures, the Indian constitutional amendment process strikes a balance between change and continuity, making it both dynamic and enduring. This thoughtful arrangement ensures that the Constitution continues to serve the aspirations of the people while safeguarding its foundational ethos.
Question:-02
Critically examine the limitations of the Trade Union Movement in India.
Answer:
1. Introduction to the Trade Union Movement in India
The Trade Union Movement in India has played a significant role in shaping labor rights and advocating for the welfare of the working class. Emerging during the colonial period, it gained strength during India’s struggle for independence and has continued into the post-independence era. Trade unions aim to protect workers’ rights, improve wages, working conditions, and secure social security. However, despite a long history and legal recognition, the movement has faced several structural, political, and organizational limitations that have restricted its effectiveness and outreach. A critical examination of these limitations reveals deep-rooted challenges that continue to affect labor welfare in the country.
2. Political Fragmentation and Union Rivalry
One of the major limitations of the Indian trade union movement is its political fragmentation. Many trade unions are affiliated with political parties, leading to inter-union rivalry and a lack of unified representation for workers. Different political ideologies influence the goals and functioning of unions, creating divisions rather than solidarity. For example, the Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) is linked to the Congress Party, while the All India Trade Union Congress (AITUC) is aligned with leftist ideology.
This political dependence weakens the core mission of the trade union, often shifting focus from labor issues to political agendas. Such rivalries dilute bargaining power, create confusion among workers, and prevent the formation of a united labor front capable of negotiating effectively with employers and the government.
3. Lack of Internal Democracy and Leadership Crisis
Many trade unions in India suffer from a lack of internal democracy. Leadership is often controlled by a few individuals for extended periods, reducing the scope for fresh ideas and democratic participation. This leads to leadership stagnation, making the unions less responsive to changing labor dynamics.
In several cases, union leaders are not workers themselves but politicians or external figures, which alienates the rank-and-file members. As a result, the union leadership may not fully understand or represent the genuine concerns of the workers, reducing trust and participation among the members.
4. Limited Coverage and Informal Sector Neglect
The Indian trade union movement has largely been confined to the organized sector, which constitutes only about 10% of the total workforce. The remaining 90% of workers in the informal sector remain mostly unorganized and unrepresented. This includes agricultural laborers, construction workers, domestic workers, and gig economy participants.
Unions have failed to adapt their structure and approach to the needs of the informal sector, where job insecurity, lack of legal protection, and exploitation are most severe. Consequently, the movement has not addressed the needs of the vast majority of India’s labor force, limiting its relevance and impact.
5. Legal and Regulatory Constraints
Although India has legal provisions for trade unions under the Trade Unions Act, 1926, the regulatory framework poses significant constraints. The procedure for registering trade unions is complex, and there are stringent requirements for recognition. Additionally, labor laws are often poorly implemented, and judicial delays further hinder the resolution of labor disputes.
In recent years, the consolidation of labor codes has raised concerns among trade unions, as they fear a dilution of workers’ rights and weakening of collective bargaining powers. These legal and institutional limitations discourage the formation of new unions and reduce their effectiveness in defending labor rights.
6. Economic Liberalization and Employer Resistance
The advent of economic liberalization in the 1990s significantly altered the labor landscape. With the rise of the private sector, contractual employment, and foreign investment, employers have increasingly resisted unionization. Many private firms actively discourage union activities, leading to a decline in union density.
Moreover, global competition has created pressure on industries to reduce labor costs and maintain flexibility, often at the expense of worker protections. This changing economic environment has made it difficult for traditional unions to function, as they struggle to protect jobs without compromising competitiveness.
7. Decline in Worker Participation and Trust
In recent decades, there has been a noticeable decline in worker participation in union activities. Many workers view unions as ineffective, corrupt, or disconnected from their everyday problems. The failure to deliver tangible results, combined with bureaucratic procedures and political manipulation, has reduced faith in the movement.
Additionally, the new generation of workers, especially in urban and service sectors, often prefers individual career growth over collective action. This cultural shift presents a major challenge for traditional trade unions in staying relevant and attracting new members.
Conclusion
The trade union movement in India has made important contributions to labor welfare and socio-political reforms. However, it faces serious limitations including political fragmentation, lack of internal democracy, limited reach, legal hurdles, and declining relevance in the era of globalization. To revitalize the movement, unions must adopt inclusive, transparent, and decentralized approaches, extend their presence in the informal sector, and focus on genuine worker issues over political interests. Strengthening labor rights in the 21st century will require a transformation of the trade union movement into a more responsive, unified, and grassroots-driven force capable of addressing the real challenges of India’s diverse and evolving workforce.
Assignment – II
Answer the following questions in about 250 words each.
Question:-03
Discuss the relationship between Gender and Development.
Answer:
Relationship Between Gender and Development
The relationship between gender and development is deeply interconnected, as development cannot be inclusive or sustainable without addressing gender disparities. Gender refers to the socially constructed roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male or female, while development encompasses economic growth, social progress, and human well-being. Historically, development models focused largely on economic indicators and often overlooked the specific needs and contributions of women and other gender minorities. However, over time, the importance of integrating gender perspectives into development planning has gained global recognition.
Gender plays a crucial role in determining access to resources, education, healthcare, employment, and decision-making opportunities. In many societies, women and girls face systemic disadvantages, including lower literacy rates, wage gaps, unpaid care responsibilities, and limited political representation. These inequalities hinder their ability to fully participate in and benefit from development processes.
Recognizing this, the Gender and Development (GAD) approach emerged in contrast to earlier Women in Development (WID) models. GAD emphasizes transforming unequal power relations and focuses on both men and women to promote equitable development. It highlights the need to address structural barriers, cultural norms, and institutional discrimination that perpetuate gender inequality.
International frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) explicitly stress gender equality (Goal 5) as both a goal in itself and a driver of progress in other areas such as health, education, and poverty reduction. Studies show that empowering women leads to improved outcomes in child health, community welfare, and economic productivity.
Furthermore, gender-sensitive development policies and programs help create inclusive societies where individuals of all genders can access opportunities and contribute meaningfully. This includes promoting women’s leadership, ensuring reproductive rights, and protecting against gender-based violence.
In conclusion, addressing gender disparities is not only a matter of social justice but also essential for achieving holistic and equitable development. Sustainable development must be gender-inclusive to ensure that no one is left behind.
Question:-04
Elucidate the legislative powers of the President of India.
Answer:
Legislative Powers of the President of India
The President of India, as the constitutional head of the state, plays a significant role in the legislative process. Although the real legislative authority is exercised by the Parliament, the President acts as an essential part of the legislature, particularly in procedural and formal capacities. His legislative powers are derived primarily from Articles 79 to 123 of the Indian Constitution.
One of the key legislative powers of the President is the summoning, proroguing, and dissolving of Parliament. He summons both Houses (Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha) and can prorogue them or dissolve the Lok Sabha on the advice of the Council of Ministers. No session of Parliament can be held without the President’s formal summons.
The President also addresses the joint session of Parliament at the beginning of the first session after each general election and at the commencement of the first session of each year. This address outlines the government’s policies and legislative agenda.
No bill can become a law without the President’s assent. Once a bill is passed by both Houses of Parliament, it is presented to the President, who can:
- Give assent,
- Withhold assent, or
- Return a non-money bill for reconsideration (except money bills, which he cannot return).
If the Parliament passes the bill again with or without amendments, the President is bound to give assent.
The President also has the power to promulgate ordinances under Article 123 when Parliament is not in session and immediate legislative action is required. These ordinances have the same force as laws passed by Parliament, though they must be approved by Parliament within six weeks of reassembly.
Additionally, the President can nominate 12 members to the Rajya Sabha from fields such as art, literature, science, and social service, and two members to the Lok Sabha from the Anglo-Indian community (though this provision was removed by the 104th Constitutional Amendment in 2020).
In conclusion, while the President’s legislative powers are largely formal and exercised on the advice of the executive, they are essential to the constitutional functioning of India’s parliamentary system.
Question:-05
Discuss the special powers and functions of the Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
Special Powers and Functions of the Rajya Sabha
The Rajya Sabha, or the Council of States, is the upper house of the Indian Parliament. Though often considered less powerful than the Lok Sabha, it possesses certain exclusive powers and functions that highlight its unique role in India’s federal and parliamentary structure. These special powers ensure a balance between the states and the Union and safeguard federalism.
One of the most important special powers of the Rajya Sabha is under Article 249. It can authorize Parliament to make laws on a subject in the State List if it is deemed necessary in the national interest. This can be done by passing a resolution with a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting. This provision strengthens the Union’s ability to legislate on critical matters affecting the whole country, especially in times of urgency or crisis.
Under Article 312, the Rajya Sabha also plays a vital role in the creation of All India Services (like the Indian Administrative Service and Indian Police Service). It can pass a resolution, supported by two-thirds of the members present and voting, to allow Parliament to create new All India Services in the national interest.
Another special function of the Rajya Sabha is during a situation where the Lok Sabha is dissolved. In such cases, the Rajya Sabha continues to function and plays a legislative and advisory role, particularly in matters of national emergency or ordinances.
The Rajya Sabha also provides representation to states and union territories, thus serving as a federal chamber. It ensures that regional interests are considered in the national law-making process. Additionally, it acts as a deliberative body, engaging in meaningful discussions and debates on national issues, often with more decorum and continuity than the Lok Sabha.
In conclusion, while the Rajya Sabha may not control finances or determine the executive, its special powers under the Constitution equip it with significant authority to influence national legislation and maintain the federal balance of power, making it an essential part of India’s democratic framework.
Assignment – III
Answer the following questions in about 100 words each.
Question:-06
Define and explain the concept of Judicial Review.
Answer:
Judicial Review: Definition and Explanation
Judicial Review is the power of the judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court and High Courts, to examine the constitutionality of legislative acts, executive orders, and administrative decisions. If any law or action is found to violate the Constitution of India, especially the Fundamental Rights, the courts have the authority to declare it null and void.
This concept is not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution but has been established through various judicial decisions, most notably in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973) and Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980). Judicial review ensures that the legislative and executive branches act within the limits set by the Constitution, thereby upholding the rule of law and protecting individual rights.
It forms a key feature of the basic structure doctrine, preventing arbitrary governance and maintaining the supremacy of the Constitution in India’s democratic framework.
Question:-07
What is the significance of Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
Significance of Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution
Articles 20 and 21 of the Indian Constitution are part of the Fundamental Rights and provide crucial safeguards for individuals, particularly in matters relating to life, liberty, and criminal justice.
Article 20 protects individuals in criminal cases. It guarantees:
- Protection against ex post facto laws (no retrospective criminal legislation),
- Protection against double jeopardy (no person shall be punished twice for the same offence), and
- Protection against self-incrimination (no person shall be compelled to be a witness against oneself).
Article 21 states that “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.” This has been expansively interpreted by the Supreme Court to include rights such as privacy, health, livelihood, environment, and education.
Together, Articles 20 and 21 uphold the dignity, security, and freedom of individuals and are central to the rule of law and human rights in India.
Question:-08
How does the concept of Collective Responsibility operate in the Indian parliamentary system?
Answer:
Collective Responsibility in the Indian Parliamentary System
The concept of Collective Responsibility is a cornerstone of the parliamentary system of governance in India, as enshrined in Article 75(3) of the Constitution. It means that the Council of Ministers, headed by the Prime Minister, is collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, the lower house of Parliament.
This principle implies that the entire ministry acts as a unified body, and all ministers must support Cabinet decisions, even if they personally disagree. If the Lok Sabha passes a vote of no-confidence against the Council of Ministers, the entire Cabinet, including the Prime Minister, must resign.
Collective responsibility ensures cohesion, accountability, and discipline within the executive. It also strengthens parliamentary control over the government, as ministers cannot function independently of the Cabinet. This unity allows the government to present a common front in Parliament and maintain the stability and integrity of the executive branch.
Question:-09
Briefly describe the procedure for removing a Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
Answer:
Procedure for Removing a Judge of the Supreme Court of India
The procedure for removing a Judge of the Supreme Court of India is detailed in Article 124(4) of the Constitution and is designed to ensure judicial independence. A judge can be removed only on grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
The process begins with a motion signed by at least 100 Lok Sabha members or 50 Rajya Sabha members, which is submitted to the Speaker or Chairman. If admitted, an inquiry committee is formed to investigate the charges. If the committee finds the judge guilty, the motion is taken up for voting in both Houses.
The motion must be passed in each House by a two-thirds majority of members present and voting, and a majority of the total membership of that House. Once both Houses pass the motion, it is sent to the President, who can then issue an order for the judge’s removal. This ensures due process and fairness.
Question:-10
What is Question Hour in Parliamentary procedure, and what purpose does it serve?
Answer:
Question Hour in Parliamentary Procedure
Question Hour is the first hour of a sitting session of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in the Indian Parliament, usually held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. During this time, Members of Parliament (MPs) ask questions to ministers about the working and performance of their ministries.
Questions are categorized into Starred, Unstarred, and Short Notice:
- Starred Questions require oral answers and may be followed by supplementary questions.
- Unstarred Questions receive written replies.
- Short Notice Questions relate to urgent matters and can be asked with less notice.
Question Hour serves a crucial purpose in ensuring executive accountability. It allows MPs to seek information, raise public issues, and expose administrative lapses. It also helps highlight matters of national and regional importance, thereby enhancing transparency and responsiveness of the government. Question Hour is a vital tool for parliamentary oversight and democratic governance.
