Political Science MCQs
Topic Notes: Political Science
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
31
Under which of the following conditions is the government prohibited from restricting freedom of speech?
Answer:
When stability of Government is in danger
According to constitutional principles, the government cannot restrict freedom of speech simply because the stability of the ruling administration is threatened. Criticism of the government is a protected form of expression in a democracy. Restrictions are only permissible when they address specific threats to national security, public order, or international relations, rather than the political survival of the current leadership.
32
In which year was the National Human Rights Commission established?
Answer:
1993
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established in India on October 12, 1993, under the Protection of Human Rights Act. Its primary mandate is to protect and promote human rights as guaranteed by the Constitution and international covenants, ensuring accountability for violations by public authorities.
33
Which of the following officials is not a member of the selection committee responsible for recommending the appointment of the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission of India?
Answer:
President
The selection committee for the NHRC Chairperson includes the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha, the Minister of Home Affairs, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, and the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha. The President is the appointing authority who acts upon the recommendation of this committee, rather than serving as a member of the committee itself.
34
Which of the following is incorrectly categorized as a civil liberty?
Answer:
Right to choose government
Civil liberties generally refer to protections against government interference in personal life, such as freedom of speech or religion. The right to choose a government is typically classified as a political right, as it involves active participation in the democratic process rather than a passive protection from state intrusion. Therefore, it is distinct from the traditional definition of civil liberties.
35
What are identified as the two fundamental dimensions of Human Rights?
Answer:
Natural and legal aspects
Human rights are conceptualized through two primary lenses: the natural law perspective, which views rights as inherent to human existence, and the legal positivist perspective, which views rights as entitlements codified and protected by state or international law. Together, these facets form the comprehensive framework of modern human rights theory.
36
Which of the following is often debated as not being strictly categorized as a civil liberty?
Answer:
Freedom of speech and expression
Civil liberties are protections against government interference in personal life, such as freedom from arbitrary detention or freedom of movement. While freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it is frequently categorized as a political liberty because it is essential for democratic participation and public discourse. The distinction between civil and political rights can be fluid, but speech is often prioritized as the primary tool for political engagement.
37
Which individual is recognized for founding the 'Society for Right to Die with Dignity' in India?
Answer:
Minoo Masani
Minoo Masani, a prominent Indian politician and author, co-founded the 'Society for Right to Die with Dignity' in 1994. The organization advocates for the legal right of terminally ill patients to choose euthanasia, emphasizing personal autonomy and the relief of suffering. This initiative sparked significant legal and ethical debates in India regarding the right to life versus the right to a dignified death.
38
Which of the following statements regarding the National Human Rights Commission of India is factually incorrect?
Answer:
The Chairman and members of this Commission are appointed by the Supreme Court of India
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) was established under the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993. While it investigates violations, it lacks punitive powers. Crucially, the Chairman and members are appointed by the President of India based on the recommendations of a high-level committee, not by the Supreme Court itself, making option C the incorrect statement.
39
In which landmark judicial case did the Supreme Court of India establish guidelines to address and prevent sexual harassment of women in the workplace?
Answer:
Vishakha V. State of Rajasthan and others
The Vishakha guidelines were established by the Supreme Court of India in 1997. This judgment was a response to the brutal gang rape of a social worker, Bhanwari Devi. The Court filled a legislative vacuum by providing mandatory guidelines for employers to prevent sexual harassment, which remained the primary legal framework until the enactment of the POSH Act in 2013.
40
What is the legal classification of the National Human Rights Commission?
Answer:
Both A and C
The National Human Rights Commission is established by an act of the legislature, making it a statutory body. The provided answer identifies it as both a statutory body and a multilateral institution. While it is clearly statutory, the classification as a multilateral institution is unconventional in standard political science taxonomy, suggesting a potential conflict with standard definitions of domestic administrative bodies. Users should verify the specific legal framework of the relevant jurisdiction.