Question 76 from UPSC CSE 2018 - Polity

Question

Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the 'Rule of Law'?
1. Limitation of Powers
2. Equality before law
3. People's responsibility to the Government
4. Liberty and civil rights
Select the correct answer using the code given below:

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. 1, 2, and 4 only

Strategy: Focus on the classical meanings of 'Rule of Law'. Equality before law and limitation of powers fall directly under Dicey's core principles. Liberty and civil rights are an essential corollary. People's responsibility to government, however, concerns duties rather than legal limits or civil liberties. So, by matching options with the theoretical framework, select statements 1, 2, and 4 only.

Key Info: The 'Rule of Law' is a foundational pillar of modern legal systems, signifying governance based on established law rather than arbitrary power. A. V. Dicey popularized this doctrine in his work 'Introduction to the Study of the Law of the Constitution' (1885), identifying three main principles:
1. Supremacy of law—no person can be punished except for a breach of law established by ordinary courts;
2. Equality before the law—every person, regardless of status, is subject to ordinary laws and jurisdiction; and
3. Predominance of legal spirit—general principles of the constitution arise from judicial decisions.
Limitation of powers refers to restriction of discretionary authority of officials and organs. Liberty and civil rights arise from, and are protected by, the rule of law. The idea of 'People's responsibility to the Government' relates more to duties of citizens, not an element of the doctrine of rule of law. India's Constitution reflects these concepts in the guarantee of Fundamental Rights and the independence of judiciary (Articles 14, 21). The concept is further echoed in international legal standards, upholding fairness, equality, and legal certainty.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 2 and 4 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: 1, 2, 3, and 4

Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the 'Rule of Law'? Limitation of Powers Equality before law People's responsibility to the Government Liberty and civil rights Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Which of the following are regarded as the main features of the 'Rule of Law'?

Limitation of Powers

Equality before law

People's responsibility to the Government

Liberty and civil rights
Select the correct answer using the code given below: