Question 26 from UPSC CSE 2023 - Polity & Governanc e

Question

Which one of the following statements best reflects the chief purpose of the 'Constitution' of a country?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. It defines and limits the powers of government.

Strategy: Identify the core function of a Constitution. While the creation of political offices or securing social objectives are features, the central role is to define and limit government power, ensuring checks and balances. This foundational purpose is paramount.

Key Info: The Constitution is the supreme law of the land in most countries, serving as the foundational legal document that sets out the structure, functions, powers, and limitations of various organs of the government. Its primary purpose is to define and circumscribe the authority of government institutions, thereby upholding the rule of law and preventing arbitrary exercise of power.

*   Constitutions typically lay out the separation of powers between legislature, executive, and judiciary, along with systems of checks and balances.
*   By enumerating fundamental rights and duties, the Constitution safeguards citizens against possible abuses by the state.
*   Constitutionalism is the principle that government authority is legally limited by a constitution, mandating that rulers and authorities remain subject to law rather than acting arbitrarily.
*   While constitutions may express aspirational social or economic goals, their chief function is not to secure social justice or establish offices per se, but to set clear boundaries on state power and ensure its exercise is in accordance with established law.
*   Notable examples include the Indian Constitution (Articles 52--151 for the executive, 79--122 for legislature, and 124--147 for the judiciary) that both enables and limits government operations.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: It determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: It enables the creation of political offices and a government.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: It secures social justice, social equality, and social security.