Fundamental Rights — Practice Questions
UPSC Prelims-pattern practice questions on Fundamental Rights with full explanations — citizens-only rights, emergency provisions, writs and amendments.
Questions
These are original UPSC-pattern practice questions. Attempt each one before revealing the answer.
Which of the following Fundamental Rights are available only to citizens of India?
- Article 14
- Article 16
- Article 19
- Article 21
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Solution
Articles 15, 16, 19, 29 and 30 are available only to citizens. Articles 14 and 21 use the word “person” and protect non-citizens too.
Answer: B
During the operation of a National Emergency, the enforcement of which of the following Articles cannot be suspended by the President under Article 359?
Solution
After the 44th Amendment (1978), Article 359 cannot be used to suspend the enforcement of Article 20 (protection in respect of conviction for offences) or Article 21 (life and personal liberty).
Answer: C
Which writ is issued to quash an order already passed by a lower court or tribunal acting without or in excess of its jurisdiction?
Solution
Certiorari is curative — it quashes an order already passed. Prohibition is preventive — it stops proceedings that are still pending. Mandamus commands a public authority to perform a duty; quo warranto questions the authority by which a person holds a public office.
Answer: C
The right to free and compulsory education for children of six to fourteen years was made a Fundamental Right by which Constitutional Amendment?
Solution
The 86th Amendment (2002) inserted Article 21A. It also changed Article 45 (DPSP) to early childhood care for children below six, and added a Fundamental Duty in Article 51A(k) for parents and guardians.
Answer: C