Q33 · UPSC Prelims 2023 · Set A · Polity and Governance

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

A It determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.
B It enables the creation of political offices and a government.
C It defines and limits the powers of government.
D It secures social justice, social equality and social security.

Correct answer: (c) It defines and limits the powers of government.

Explanation

  1. A

    It determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.

    It sets objectives for law-making. A constitution does more, and this is not the chief purpose as keyed.

  2. B

    It enables the creation of political offices and a government.

    It creates offices and a government. Necessary, but the distinctive job is to fence power.

  3. C

    It defines and limits the powers of government.

    It defines and limits the powers of government. Constitutionalism: government under law.

  4. D

    It secures social justice, social equality and social security.

    It secures social justice. A Directive-type aim, not the core definition of a constitution.

Summary. Official key is (c). The chief purpose of a constitution, in the limited-government sense, is to define and limit public power. Creating offices, guiding future laws and promising social justice are roles; they are not the keyed essence.

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