IGNOU BPSC-132 Solved Question Paper PDF Download

IGNOU BPSC-132 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in Hindi

IGNOU BPSC-132 Previous Year Solved Question Paper in English

Q1. Briefly explain the changing nature of Liberal and Marxist approaches to the study of Indian Politics.

Ans. The study of Indian politics has been approached from various ideological standpoints, with the Liberal and Marxist approaches being the most prominent. The nature of both these approaches has undergone significant changes over time. Changing Nature of the Liberal Approach: Initially, the liberal approach to the study of Indian politics was institutional. It primarily focused on the formal structures of government, such as the Constitution, Parliament, judiciary, and bureaucracy. Scholars analysed the legal and institutional framework of the Indian state. In the 1960s and 1970s, this approach shifted towards behaviouralism . Scholars like Rajni Kothari introduced concepts like the ‘Congress System’, which analysed actual political processes, voting behaviour, and the role of factions, rather than just institutions. This phase emphasised understanding the unique characteristics of Indian politics in practice. Post-1990s, with the advent of liberalization and globalization, the liberal approach transformed again. The focus shifted to governance, civil society, human rights, and identity politics . Scholars began studying the changing role of the state, the rise of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), and the impact of market-oriented reforms. Contemporary liberal analysis often engages with public policy, developmental studies, and rights-based approaches. Changing Nature of the Marxist Approach: Early Marxist analysis, such as that of A.R. Desai, was classical in nature. It viewed the Indian state as an instrument of the bourgeois class and considered class struggle as the central driving force of Indian society and politics. This approach focused on issues like land reforms, the nature of capitalist development, and the role of the proletariat. In later years, Marxist scholars refined their analysis. They acknowledged the ‘relative autonomy’ of the Indian state, arguing that the state is not merely an instrument of the ruling class but can mediate between different classes. They also began to analyse the complex relationship between caste and class, acknowledging that caste is not just a superstructural phenomenon but also shapes production relations. Post-1990s, the Marxist approach took a new turn in response to neo-liberal reforms. The focus of analysis shifted to the impact of globalization, the informalization of labour, privatization of public sector enterprises, and the rise of new social movements . Contemporary Marxist scholars study how global capitalism is reshaping the Indian state and class structures, leading to new forms of inequality and exploitation. In summary, both approaches have evolved in response to the changing realities of Indian politics, moving from institutional formalism and classical class analysis to more nuanced and dynamic frameworks for understanding the complexities of contemporary India.

Q2. Write an essay on Gandhian approach to the study of politics in India.

Ans. Mahatma Gandhi was not primarily a political theorist, but his ideas and actions provide a unique and powerful ethical framework for the study of Indian politics. The Gandhian approach is distinct from conventional political science as it emphasizes morality over power, society over the state, and duties over rights. Core Tenets of the Gandhian Approach: The Gandhian approach is built upon several interconnected concepts:

• Swaraj: For Gandhi, Swaraj did not simply mean political independence, but was self-rule and self-control . It is a state where the individual learns to rule over his own passions and desires, and the community manages its affairs without the interference of external authority.
• Satyagraha: Literally meaning ‘insistence on truth’, this was Gandhi’s primary tool for combating injustice. It is a form of non-violent resistance based on moral force and appealing to the conscience of the opponent. It is an active, yet non-violent, method of political struggle.
• Sarvodaya: This means ‘welfare of all’ or ‘upliftment of all’. It stands in contrast to the utilitarian principle of ‘the greatest good of the greatest number’. Sarvodaya insists on the welfare of the most vulnerable and marginalized members of society (what Gandhi called Antyodaya ).
• Decentralization (Gram Swaraj): Gandhi was a critic of the modern, centralized nation-state, which he saw as a ‘soulless machine’ that depended on violence. He advocated for a decentralized polity based on self-sufficient village republics (Gram Swaraj). In these communities, decisions would be taken by consensus and power would lie directly with the people.
• Trusteeship: This is Gandhi’s principle for the economic sphere. It argues that the wealthy should hold their excess wealth in a trust for society and manage it for the benefit of the community. It offers an alternative to both capitalism and communism, aiming to bring about economic equality without class conflict.

Relevance to the Study of Politics:

The Gandhian approach views politics not as a struggle for power and domination, but as a means of moral and spiritual service to society. It insists on the connection between means and ends; Gandhi believed that a just end (like freedom) cannot be achieved through unjust means (like violence).

This approach helps us understand grassroots movements, civil society activism, and environmental and peace movements in Indian politics. It highlights the importance of ethics, transparency, and accountability in politics. While the Indian state did not fully adopt Gandhi’s ideal of Gram Swaraj, the elements of decentralization in the Panchayati Raj institutions reflect his influence.

In conclusion, the Gandhian approach offers a critical and alternative perspective on Indian politics, challenging us to look beyond power politics and to imagine a more just, ethical, and sustainable social order.

Q3. Briefly explain the evolution of constitution in India.

Ans. The evolution of the constitution in India was a gradual process that began during British colonial rule and culminated in its framing by the Constituent Assembly after India’s independence. This evolution can be understood in several stages. 1. Acts During the Colonial Period: The roots of the Indian Constitution can be traced to various acts passed by the British Parliament. These acts were primarily meant to regulate the Company’s rule and later to manage the administration of the British Crown in India.

• Regulating Act, 1773: This was the first step to control the affairs of the East India Company in India and laid the foundations of a centralized administration.
• Government of India Act, 1909 (Minto-Morley Reforms): It increased the representation of Indians in the legislative councils but unfortunately also sowed the seeds of communalism by introducing separate electorates for Muslims.
• Government of India Act, 1919 (Montagu-Chelmsford Reforms): It introduced ‘dyarchy’ in the provinces, where some subjects (like education, health) were transferred to Indian ministers, while crucial subjects remained with the British. It also introduced a bicameral legislature at the centre.
• Government of India Act, 1935: This was the most significant act and became the main blueprint for the Constitution of India. It proposed the establishment of an ‘All-India Federation’, introduced provincial autonomy, and divided powers between the centre and provinces into three lists—Federal, Provincial, and Concurrent. It also established a Federal Court (which later became the Supreme Court of India) and the Reserve Bank of India.

2. Indian Nationalist Response:

Indian nationalists found these reforms inadequate and demanded self-rule. The

Nehru Report (1928)

was a significant early attempt by Indians to draft a constitution. It demanded dominion status, fundamental rights, a parliamentary system, and a federal structure.

3. The Constituent Assembly:

After World War II, the British government agreed to grant independence to India. Under the

Cabinet Mission Plan, 1946

, a Constituent Assembly was formed to draft a constitution for independent India. Its members were indirectly elected by the provincial assemblies. The Assembly comprised representatives from all sections of society, and its debates played a crucial role in shaping the philosophy and provisions of the Constitution.

Dr. Rajendra Prasad

was appointed its President and

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. The

‘Objectives Resolution’

moved by Jawaharlal Nehru on December 13, 1946, was a pivotal document that outlined the guiding principles of the Constitution, such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.

4. Adoption of the Constitution:

The Constituent Assembly met in several sessions over a period of 2 years, 11 months, and 18 days. They drew inspiration from various constitutions of the world but adapted these ideas to Indian conditions. Finally, the Constitution was adopted on

November 26, 1949

, and came into full force on

January 26, 1950

, the day India became a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, and Democratic Republic.

Q4. Write a note on significance of Fundamental Rights.

Ans. The Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III (Articles 12 to 35) of the Indian Constitution, are the cornerstone of Indian democracy. They are often called the ‘Magna Carta’ of India and hold immense significance that goes far beyond being mere legal provisions. 1. Bedrock of Democracy and Individual Liberty: Fundamental Rights protect citizens from the tyranny and arbitrary action of the state. They ensure that the state does not encroach upon individual liberty. Rights such as the Right to Equality (Articles 14-18), Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22), and Right to Life and Personal Liberty (Article 21) are essential for the functioning of a democratic society. They create an environment where individuals can develop to their fullest potential. 2. Establishment of Social Justice and Equality: Indian society has been historically plagued by discrimination based on caste and gender. Fundamental Rights seek to redress this injustice. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth. Article 17 abolishes ‘untouchability’ and forbids its practice in any form. These provisions are not just legal rights but also moral commands to create an egalitarian society. 3. Promotion of Secularism: Articles 25 to 28 provide for the Right to Freedom of Religion. This gives all persons the freedom of conscience and the right to profess, practice, and propagate any religion. This lends a secular character to the state, meaning the state has no religion of its own and will treat all religions equally. This is crucial for ensuring harmony among India’s diverse religious population. 4. Guarantee of the Rule of Law: Fundamental Rights ensure that there is a rule of law in the country. They limit the powers of the government, meaning both the legislature and the executive have to function within the provisions of the Constitution. Any law or executive order that violates Fundamental Rights can be declared unconstitutional by the judiciary. 5. Judicial Protection: The most significant aspect of Fundamental Rights is that they are justiciable . Article 32 (Right to Constitutional Remedies) , which Dr. Ambedkar called the ‘heart and soul of the Constitution’, gives citizens the right to directly approach the Supreme Court in case of a violation of their Fundamental Rights. This right makes the Fundamental Rights meaningful as it provides an effective mechanism for their enforcement. In essence, Fundamental Rights not only empower citizens but also set the guiding principles for a just, tolerant, and democratic society. They ensure individual dignity and help in maintaining the unity and integrity of the nation.

Q5. Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each : (a) Duties of the citizen of India (b) Power of the Speaker of Lok Sabha

Ans. (a) Duties of the citizen of India The Fundamental Duties, listed under Article 51A in Part IV-A of the Constitution, were added by the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976 , on the recommendations of the Swaran Singh Committee. These duties are meant to remind citizens that while enjoying their rights, they also have certain obligations to their country, society, and fellow citizens. Initially, there were 10 duties, but another duty (for a parent or guardian to provide opportunities for education to their child) was added by the 86th Amendment Act, 2002 , bringing the total to 11. Some key duties are:

• To abide by the Constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
• To cherish and follow the noble ideals that inspired our national struggle for freedom.
• To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
• To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so.
• To develop the scientific temper, humanism, and the spirit of inquiry and reform.
• To safeguard public property and to abjure violence.

Unlike Fundamental Rights, the Fundamental Duties are

non-justiciable

, meaning they cannot be legally enforced in a court of law for their violation. However, they serve as a civic code and may be taken into account by courts while determining the constitutionality of laws. They play an important moral and educational role in promoting responsible citizenship and national discipline.

(b) Power of the Speaker of Lok Sabha

The Speaker of the Lok Sabha is the presiding officer and the highest authority in the House of the People. The role and powers of the Speaker are crucial for the orderly functioning of the House.

The Speaker’s major powers and functions are as follows:

• Conduct of the House: The Speaker presides over the meetings of the House and conducts its proceedings. It is their final duty to maintain order and decorum in the House. They permit members to speak and allot time for debates.
• Casting Vote: The Speaker does not vote in the first instance, but in the case of a tie on any motion, they can cast a decisive vote to break the deadlock.
• Certification of Money Bills: The Speaker’s decision on whether a bill is a Money Bill is final. This decision cannot be challenged in any court.
• Disqualification on grounds of Defection: Under the Tenth Schedule, the Speaker decides on the disqualification of a member on the grounds of defection. However, this decision is subject to judicial review.
• Presiding over Joint Sittings: When there is a deadlock between the two Houses on a bill, the Speaker presides over the joint sitting called by the President.
• Interpretation of Rules: The Speaker is the final interpreter of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of the House.

The role of the Speaker demands impartiality. Though they belong to a political party, they are expected to be non-partisan in their conduct and protect the rights of all members of the House.

Q6. Briefly explain the powers and functions of the President of India.

Ans. The President of India is the head of the Indian Republic and the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces. Although India has a parliamentary system, where real executive power lies with the Council of Ministers headed by the Prime Minister, the President possesses wide-ranging formal and some discretionary powers. The President’s powers can be classified into the following categories: 1. Executive Powers:

• All executive actions of the Government of India are taken in the President’s name.
• He appoints the Prime Minister and, on the PM’s advice, other ministers.
• He appoints the Attorney General of India, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners, the Chairman and members of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), and Governors of states.
• He is responsible for the administration of Union Territories and Scheduled and Tribal Areas.

2. Legislative Powers:

• The President is an integral part of the Parliament. He summons and prorogues the sessions of Parliament and can dissolve the Lok Sabha.
• He addresses the Parliament after each general election and at the commencement of the first session every year.
• No bill passed by the Parliament can become law without the President’s assent. He can withhold assent (pocket veto) or return a bill for reconsideration (suspensive veto). In the case of a money bill, he must give his assent.
• When Parliament is not in session, he can promulgate Ordinances (Article 123). These ordinances have the same force as acts of Parliament.

3. Financial Powers:

• A money bill cannot be introduced in Parliament without the President’s prior recommendation.
• He causes the Annual Financial Statement (i.e., the Union Budget) to be laid before the Parliament.
• The Contingency Fund of India is at his disposal to meet unforeseen expenditures.

4. Judicial Powers:

• He appoints the Chief Justice and other judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
• Under Article 72 , he has the power to grant pardon, reprieve, respite, or remission of punishment to any person convicted of any offence. This power of pardon extends to cases of death sentences as well.

5. Emergency Powers:

• National Emergency (Article 352): On grounds of war, external aggression, or armed rebellion.
• State Emergency (President’s Rule) (Article 356): On the grounds of failure of constitutional machinery in a state.
• Financial Emergency (Article 360): When the financial stability or credit of India is threatened.

Although in most cases, the President is bound to act on the advice of the Council of Ministers, he can use his discretion in certain situations (like appointing a PM in a hung parliament), which makes his role significant.

Q7. Explain the concept of judicial review and its importance in safeguarding Fundamental Rights.

Ans. Concept of Judicial Review: Judicial review is the power of the judiciary to examine the constitutionality of laws passed by the legislature and orders issued by the executive. If a law or executive action is found to be in violation of the provisions of the Constitution, the judiciary (the Supreme Court or High Courts) can declare it invalid or void. This concept is based on the principles of the ‘rule of law’ and the ‘supremacy of the Constitution’. In India, the power of judicial review is not explicitly mentioned in one place but is derived from various articles of the Constitution:

• Article 13: It declares that any law which is inconsistent with or in derogation of the Fundamental Rights shall be void.
• Article 32: It guarantees the right to move the Supreme Court for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights, empowering the court to review laws to protect these rights.
• Article 226: It empowers the High Courts to issue directions, orders, or writs for the enforcement of Fundamental Rights and other legal rights.

Importance in Safeguarding Fundamental Rights:

The role of judicial review in safeguarding Fundamental Rights is paramount. It makes these rights more than mere declarations.

1. As a Guardian of Rights:

Judicial review makes the judiciary the ‘guardian’ or ‘sentinel’ of Fundamental Rights. Whenever a citizen’s fundamental rights are violated by the state, they can approach the judiciary. The judiciary ensures that the state acts within its limits and respects the rights of citizens.

2. Check on Legislative and Executive Tyranny:

It acts as a crucial check on the powers of the government. It prevents the legislature from making laws that infringe upon fundamental rights and stops the executive from acting arbitrarily. For example, in the

Shreya Singhal vs. Union of India

case, the Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the IT Act as it violated the freedom of speech and expression (Article 19).

3. Expansion of Rights:

Through judicial review, the judiciary has, over time, expanded the scope of Fundamental Rights. In the

Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India

case, the court interpreted the ‘right to life’ (Article 21) to include the ‘right to live with dignity’. Subsequently, several rights like the right to a clean environment, right to privacy, and right to shelter have become part of Article 21.

4. Upholding Constitutional Supremacy:

In the landmark case of

Kesavananda Bharati vs. State of Kerala

, the Supreme Court propounded the ‘doctrine of basic structure’. It held that Parliament can amend the Constitution, but it cannot destroy or alter its ‘basic structure’ (which includes Fundamental Rights). This decision further strengthened the power of judicial review and protected Fundamental Rights from parliamentary encroachment.

In conclusion, judicial review is indispensable for a vibrant democracy. It ensures that constitutional rights are not just on paper but are available to citizens in reality, thus acting as an effective safeguard for Fundamental Rights.

Q8. Critically examine the nature of debates on the issue of caste and class in India.

Ans. Caste and class are the two most significant concepts for understanding social stratification in India. The relationship between them and their relative impact on Indian politics and society has been the subject of a long and complex debate. The nature of this debate can be critically examined through three major perspectives. 1. The Caste Primacy Perspective: This approach holds that the primary and defining feature of Indian society is caste, not class. Sociologists like Louis Dumont argued that traditional Indian society was based on ‘Homo Hierarchicus’, where an individual’s identity and social status were determined by their caste, based on a ritual hierarchy of purity and pollution. According to this perspective, economic relations (class) were also embedded within the caste system. Politically, proponents of this view believe that Indian politics is essentially the politics of caste mobilization and identity. Rajni Kothari noted that democracy gave rise to the ‘politicization of caste’. 2. The Class Primacy Perspective: This viewpoint, mainly inspired by Marxist analysis, argues that class (the relationship to the means of production) is the fundamental category for understanding Indian society. Scholars like A.R. Desai believed that caste was a ‘superstructure’ used by the ruling classes to divide the working class and maintain economic exploitation. According to this view, the real conflict in India is between classes – the bourgeoisie and the proletariat, the landlords and the peasants. They believed that as capitalism developed in India, class consciousness would replace caste identity. 3. The Interactionist and Critical Perspective: Contemporary analysis has moved beyond seeing caste and class as mutually exclusive categories. This approach acknowledges that caste and class are deeply intertwined and mutually reinforcing.

• Critical Examination: This perspective understands that caste is not merely a cultural or ritual phenomenon but also a structure of systemic oppression and economic exploitation. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar argued that caste is not just a division of labour, but also a division of labourers, which prevents them from uniting as a class.
• Caste-Class Nexus: In practice, there is a strong correlation between caste and class. The upper castes have historically had access to land, capital, and education, while the lower castes, especially Dalits, are often landless labourers and poor workers. Thus, caste oppression often goes hand-in-hand with class-based exploitation.
• Post-Liberalization Scenario: The economic reforms since 1991 have further complicated this relationship. On one hand, it has created new opportunities for some Dalits and backward castes, leading to the emergence of a small ‘Dalit middle class’. On the other hand, it has intensified the exploitation of workers in the informal sector, a majority of whom are from the lower castes. The Mandal Commission debate and subsequent politics also showed that caste remains a powerful tool for political mobilization, often overriding class-based solidarity.

In conclusion, the debate on caste vs. class in India has moved from a simple dichotomy to a more nuanced understanding that recognizes the need to analyse both dimensions and their complex interaction to fully grasp Indian social reality.

Q9. Briefly explain the nature of women’s movements in India.

Ans. The women’s movement in India is not a single, monolithic movement but a diverse and multi-layered collection of movements with different ideologies, strategies, and goals. Its nature has evolved over time and can be broadly understood in three phases. 1. The Pre-Independence Phase (19th and early 20th Century): In this phase, women’s movements were largely led by male social reformers like Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar. The focus was on eradicating social evils like Sati, child marriage, and the prohibition on widow remarriage. The nature of these movements was top-down and patriarchal, viewing women as objects of reform rather than active agents. Later, the freedom struggle under Mahatma Gandhi saw large-scale participation of women (e.g., Sarojini Naidu, Kamaladevi Chattopadhyay). However, the primary goal was national independence, and women-specific issues were often pushed to the background. 2. The Post-Independence ‘Autonomous’ Women’s Movement (1970s-1980s): This phase was a watershed moment for the women’s movement in India. The publication of the ‘Towards Equality’ report in 1974 highlighted the dismal status of Indian women, spurring widespread activism. The nature of this phase was ‘autonomous’, meaning it was independent of political parties and other organizations, and was run by women, for women.

• Issues: The movement focused on issues of violence against women, such as rape (the Mathura rape case was a major catalyst), dowry deaths, and domestic violence.
• Strategy: It involved protests, public awareness campaigns, and lobbying for legal reforms. This led to significant amendments in laws related to rape and dowry.
• Nature: This movement was largely urban and middle-class but successfully put women’s issues on the public agenda for the first time.

3. The Contemporary Phase (1990s to Present):

This phase is more diverse and fragmented. Its nature is ‘intersectional’, acknowledging that not all women share the same experience.

• Diverse Voices: Dalit-feminist, tribal, and Muslim feminist voices emerged, critiquing the mainstream feminist movement, which often focused on the experiences of upper-caste, Hindu women. They argued that women’s oppression is linked not just to gender but also to caste, class, and religion.
• New Issues: New issues came to the forefront, such as the impact of globalization and neo-liberal policies, the informalization of female labour, sex-selective abortion, and political representation (like the Women’s Reservation Bill).
• Strategy: Legal activism, Public Interest Litigations (PILs), use of media and the internet (e.g., the #MeToo movement), and grassroots organization-building have become key strategies. The Nirbhaya movement (2012) showed how a combination of old and new methods could create mass mobilization.

In short, the nature of women’s movements in India has evolved from reformist and nationalist concerns, to autonomous, anti-violence activism, and now to a multi-pronged, intersectional struggle that reflects the complex realities of Indian society.

Q10. Write short notes on the following in about 200 words each : (a) Impact of New Economic Policy on workers (b) Multiparty System in India

Ans. (a) Impact of New Economic Policy on workers The New Economic Policy (NEP) adopted in 1991, comprising Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization (LPG), has had a profound and mixed impact on Indian workers. Negative Impacts:

• Expansion of the Informal Sector: Post-NEP, a large part of employment shifted from the organized to the unorganized or informal sector. This has forced workers to work for low wages, with job insecurity, and without social security benefits (like pension, health insurance).
• Weakening of Trade Unions: The privatization and disinvestment of Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) significantly reduced the bargaining power of trade unions in the organized sector.
• Rise in Contractual Labour: Companies preferred to hire workers on contract rather than as permanent employees, leading to a ‘hire and fire’ policy. This has almost eliminated job security for workers.
• ‘Jobless Growth’: While the economy achieved a high growth rate, the rate of employment generation remained slow, a phenomenon termed ‘jobless growth’.

Positive Impacts:

In some areas, especially in the services sector like Information Technology (IT) and BPOs, new and better-paying job opportunities were created. This benefited a new, skilled, and educated middle class.

Overall, the NEP has created a dual labour market structure: a small, high-skilled, high-wage formal sector and a vast, low-skilled, low-wage, insecure informal sector. For the majority of Indian workers, the impact of NEP has been challenging, reducing their economic security and bargaining power.

(b) Multiparty System in India

A multiparty system is a political system in which multiple political parties have the opportunity to contest elections and form a government, either alone or in coalition. India has a vibrant and dynamic multiparty system, which reflects the country’s immense social, cultural, linguistic, and religious diversity.

Evolution in India:

• Era of One-Party Dominance (1952-1967): For the first two decades after independence, Indian politics was dominated by the Indian National Congress. Although many parties existed, none were in a position to challenge Congress. This was termed the ‘Congress System’ by Rajni Kothari.
• The Era of Coalition (1989-2014): The 1989 election was a turning point after which no single party got a clear majority in the Lok Sabha. This started a long period of coalition governments, such as the National Front, United Front, National Democratic Alliance (NDA), and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA). In this era, regional parties emerged as ‘kingmakers’ at the national level.
• The Era of New Dominance? (2014-Present): In 2014 and 2019, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a majority on its own, changing the nature of coalition politics. However, with many parties active at the state level and in the opposition, the character of Indian politics remains multiparty.

Features:

The multiparty system makes Indian democracy more representative as it gives voice to different groups and interests. It strengthens federalism as regional parties raise the concerns of states on the national stage. However, it also has some downsides, such as the potential for political instability, policy paralysis, and opportunistic alliances.