PYQ Astra UPSC CSE

UPSC Mains GS 2 PYQ: Constitutional & Statutory Bodies (2013–2026)

Every question on Constitutional & Statutory Bodies asked in UPSC Mains General Studies II from 2013–2026, 25 in all, newest first.

2026 · Q4 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Is the right to vote a fundamental right? Discuss the position of the Election Commission of India while undertaking the revision of electoral rolls. Can it also examine the question of citizenship of voters?

2026 · Q5 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Do constitutional bodies like the National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) possess adequate enforcement powers to secure substantive social equality? Suggest measures to enhance their institutional effectiveness.

2025 · Q5 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

"The Attorney General of India plays a crucial role in guiding the legal framework of the Union Government and ensuring sound governance through legal counsel." Discuss his responsibilities, rights and limitations in this regard.

2025 · Q18 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights has to address the challenges faced by children in the digital era. Examine the existing policies and suggest measures the Commission can initiate to tackle the issue.

2024 · Q4 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

"The duty of the Comptroller and Auditor General is not merely to ensure the legality of expenditure but also its propriety." Comment.

2023 · Q2 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Who are entitled to receive free legal aid? Assess the role of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) in rendering free legal aid in India.

2023 · Q7 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Discuss the role of the Competition Commission of India in containing the abuse of dominant position by the Multi-National Corporations in India. Refer to the recent decisions.

2022 · Q5 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Discuss the role of the National Commission for Backward Classes in the wake of its transformation from a statutory body to a constitutional body.

2022 · Q15 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

Discuss the role of the Election Commission of India in the light of the evolution of the Model Code of Conduct.

2021 · Q12 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

Though the Human Rights Commissions have contributed immensely to the protection of human rights in India, yet they have failed to assert themselves against the mighty and powerful. Analyzing their structural and practical limitations, suggest remedial measures.

2020 · Q15 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

Which steps are required for constitutionalization of a Commission? Do you think imparting constitutionality to the National Commission for Women would ensure greater gender justice and empowerment in India? Give reasons.

2019 · Q14 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

"The Attorney-General is the chief legal adviser and lawyer of the Government of India." Discuss.

2018 · Q1 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

In the light of recent controversy regarding the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVM), what are the challenges before the Election Commission of India to ensure the trustworthiness of elections in India?

2018 · Q2 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

Whether National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) can enforce the implementation of constitutional reservation for the Scheduled Castes in the religious minority institutions? Examine.

2018 · Q5 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

"The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has a very vital role to play." Explain how this is reflected in the method and terms of his appointment as well as the range of powers he can exercise.

2018 · Q14 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

How is the Finance Commission of India constituted? What do you know about the terms of reference of the recently constituted Finance Commission? Discuss.

2018 · Q16 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

Multiplicity of various commissions for the vulnerable sections of the society leads to problems of overlapping jurisdiction and duplication of functions. Is it better to merge all commissions into an umbrella Human Rights Commission? Argue your case.

2017 · Q14 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

To enhance the quality of democracy in India the Election Commission of India has proposed electoral reforms in 2016. What are the suggested reforms and how far are they significant to make democracy successful?

2017 · Q15 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 15 marks

Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face at both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer.

2016 · Q4 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 12.5 marks

Exercise of CAG's powers in relation to the accounts of the Union and the States is derived from Article 149 of the Indian Constitution. Discuss whether audit of the Government's policy implementation could amount to overstepping its own (CAG) jurisdiction.

2016 · Q8 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 12.5 marks

What is a quasi-judicial body? Explain with the help of concrete examples.

2015 · Q16 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 12.5 marks

"For achieving the desired objectives, it is necessary to ensure that the regulatory institutions remain independent and autonomous." Discuss in the light of the experiences in recent past.

2014 · Q8 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 12.5 marks

The setting up of a Rail Tariff Authority to regulate fares will subject the cash strapped Indian Railways to demand subsidy for obligation to operate non-profitable routes and services. Taking into account the experience in the power sector, discuss if the proposed reform is expected to benefit the consumers, the Indian Railways or the private container operators.

2014 · Q9 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 12.5 marks

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in India can be most effective when its tasks are adequately supported by other mechanisms that ensure the accountability of a government. In light of the above observation assess the role of NHRC as an effective complement to the judiciary and other institutions in promoting and protecting human rights standards.

2013 · Q8 Constitutional & Statutory Bodies · 10 marks

The product diversification of financial institutions and insurance companies, resulting in overlapping of products and services strengthens the case for the merger of the two regulatory agencies, namely SEBI and IRDA. Justify.