The correct Answer is Only three
Explanation
The legitimacy and effectiveness of a constitution are significantly influenced by its mode of promulgation, which refers to the process and circumstances under which it is created and adopted. This includes the nature of the constituent body, the popular support it garners, and the methods of its ratification.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1: Constitution crafted by military leaders - Remains defunct
Incorrect. Constitutions crafted by military leaders or through military coups often come into force and remain operational, at least for a period. Examples include various military regimes in different countries where new constitutions were imposed and enforced. While such constitutions may lack democratic legitimacy and popular support, they are not necessarily "defunct" in terms of their operational status. They function as the supreme law until overthrown or replaced.
- Statement 2: Constitution crafted by unpopular leaders - Lacks ability to carry people
Correct. If a constitution is crafted by leaders who lack popular support or are perceived as illegitimate by the populace, it is unlikely to gain widespread acceptance and adherence. Such a constitution would struggle to "carry the people" or command their loyalty, leading to instability and potential rejection. The legitimacy of a constitution is deeply tied to the perceived legitimacy of its framers.
- Statement 3: Constitution born from popular national movements - Enormous legitimacy
Correct. Constitutions that emerge from popular national movements, especially those involving significant public participation and consensus-building, tend to possess enormous legitimacy. The Indian Constitution, for instance, derived significant legitimacy from its association with the freedom struggle and the broad-based Constituent Assembly. Such origins instill a sense of ownership and commitment among the citizens.
- Statement 4: Constitution subjected to referendum - Automatic failure
Incorrect. Subjecting a constitution to a referendum is a democratic method of ratification, allowing citizens to directly approve or reject the proposed document. Many constitutions around the world have been successfully adopted through referendums, thereby enhancing their democratic legitimacy. For example, the French Constitution of 1958 was adopted through a referendum. A referendum does not imply automatic failure; rather, it is a mechanism for popular endorsement or rejection.
Key Takeaway
The legitimacy and efficacy of a constitution are profoundly shaped by the popular support and democratic processes involved in its creation and adoption, rather than solely by the identity of its framers or the method of ratification.