IAS 2023 — Political Science Indian Polity

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

Official previous-year question

Verified 2 Aug 2026.

Options

AIt determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.
BIt enables the creation of political offices and a government.
CIt defines and limits the powers of government.
DIt secures social justice, social equality and social security.

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Solution

Correct Option

The chief purpose of a country's Constitution is to establish the fundamental framework of governance. It explicitly defines the powers and responsibilities of the various organs of the government (legislature, executive, and judiciary). Crucially, it also imposes limitations on these powers, preventing arbitrary exercise of authority and ensuring that the government operates within a constitutional framework. This limitation of power is essential for safeguarding individual liberties and maintaining the rule of law.

Incorrect Options

Option (1): While the Constitution lays down the foundational principles and the procedure for law-making, it does not determine the specific objectives for every necessary law. The legislative bodies, operating within the constitutional framework, are responsible for identifying the need for specific laws and defining their objectives. The Constitution primarily establishes the legal boundaries and processes for legislation, rather than dictating individual legislative goals.

Option (2): The Constitution certainly establishes the structure of government, including the creation of political offices and the three branches (legislative, executive, judiciary). However, enabling the creation of government is a means to an end. The chief purpose extends beyond mere creation to defining the scope of their authority and, more importantly, limiting their powers to prevent potential abuse. The limitation of power is a more fundamental aspect than the mere establishment of offices.

Option (4): Securing social justice, social equality, and social security are indeed important objectives enshrined in the Constitution, particularly through the Preamble, Fundamental Rights, and Directive Principles of State Policy. However, these are the goals that the state is mandated to achieve within the constitutional framework. The chief purpose of the Constitution itself is to provide that framework, defining the powers of the government and imposing limits on them, thereby enabling the pursuit of these socio-economic objectives in a structured and lawful manner.

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