📘 Question Bank – Constitutional Design

A. Multiple Choice Questions (30)

(Correct answer in bold)

  1. The Constitution of South Africa was adopted in:
    a) 1947
    b) 1950
    c) 1993
    d) 1996
  2. Who was the leader of the African National Congress (ANC)?
    a) J. Nehru
    b) B. R. Ambedkar
    c) Nelson Mandela
    d) Desmond Tutu
  3. Apartheid means:
    a) Equality of all races
    b) Voting rights for all
    c) Separation of races
    d) Rule of majority
  4. When did Nelson Mandela become the first black President of South Africa?
    a) 1990
    b) 1994
    c) 1996
    d) 2000
  5. Who is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution?
    a) Rajendra Prasad
    b) Jawaharlal Nehru
    c) B. R. Ambedkar
    d) Sardar Patel
  6. The Constituent Assembly of India was formed in:
    a) 1945
    b) 1946
    c) 1947
    d) 1950
  7. The Indian Constitution came into effect on:
    a) 15 August 1947
    b) 26 January 1949
    c) 26 January 1950
    d) 26 November 1950
  8. The Constitution of India was adopted on:
    a) 26 January 1947
    b) 26 November 1949
    c) 15 August 1947
    d) 15 August 1950
  9. Who was the President of the Constituent Assembly?
    a) Jawaharlal Nehru
    b) Dr. Rajendra Prasad
    c) B. R. Ambedkar
    d) Vallabhbhai Patel
  10. The total number of members in the Constituent Assembly was:
    a) 199
    b) 299
    c) 389
    d) 400
  11. Which movement influenced the makers of the Indian Constitution?
    a) French Revolution
    b) Russian Revolution
    c) Indian National Movement
    d) American Revolution
  12. The term “We the People” signifies:
    a) Kings rule the country
    b) People are the source of authority
    c) Only leaders have power
    d) Judiciary rules
  13. Which right was abolished in South Africa’s new Constitution?
    a) Right to education
    b) Right to property
    c) Apartheid / racial discrimination
    d) Right to vote
  14. Which country’s Constitution inspired India for Fundamental Rights?
    a) USA
    b) France
    c) USA
    d) Britain
  15. Who prepared the draft of the Indian Constitution?
    a) Nehru Committee
    b) Drafting Committee under B. R. Ambedkar
    c) British Parliament
    d) Cabinet Mission
  16. Which revolution inspired the idea of fraternity in the Constitution?
    a) French Revolution
    b) Russian Revolution
    c) American Revolution
    d) Industrial Revolution
  17. Which day is celebrated as Republic Day in India?
    a) 15 August
    b) 26 November
    c) 26 January
    d) 2 October
  18. How many Articles did the original Constitution of India contain?
    a) 200
    b) 295
    c) 395
    d) 500
  19. The Constitution of India has been called:
    a) Briefest in the world
    b) Longest in the world
    c) Smallest in Asia
    d) Shortest in Asia
  20. Which country’s Constitution influenced India’s Parliamentary system?
    a) USA
    b) Britain
    c) South Africa
    d) Japan
  21. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution declares India as:
    a) Federal, Democratic, Socialist
    b) Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic
    c) Federal, Secular, Republic
    d) National, Socialist, Republic
  22. What is the significance of January 26 in Indian history?
    a) Quit India Movement
    b) Day of Purna Swaraj (1930)
    c) Adoption of Constitution
    d) Gandhi’s birthday
  23. The Constitution of India was drafted by:
    a) Parliament
    b) Constituent Assembly
    c) British Parliament
    d) Cabinet
  24. How many women were part of the Indian Constituent Assembly?
    a) 5
    b) 10
    c) 15
    d) 25
  25. Which country influenced India’s Directive Principles of State Policy?
    a) Britain
    b) USA
    c) Ireland
    d) France
  26. The idea of Justice – social, economic, political – came from:
    a) America
    b) Russian Revolution
    c) Britain
    d) Japan
  27. Which Act gave Indians the right to frame their own Constitution?
    a) Regulating Act 1773
    b) Government of India Act 1919
    c) Cabinet Mission Plan 1946
    d) Indian Independence Act 1947
  28. The Indian Constitution was drafted in how many days?
    a) 1 year
    b) 2 years
    c) 2 years 11 months 18 days
    d) 5 years
  29. Who gave the famous speech “Tryst with Destiny”?
    a) Mahatma Gandhi
    b) Jawaharlal Nehru
    c) B. R. Ambedkar
    d) Subhash Chandra Bose
  30. The Preamble of India begins with:
    a) In the name of God
    b) We the People of India
    c) Truth alone triumphs
    d) Justice for all

B. Very Short Answer Questions (20)

(1–2 sentences)

  1. What does apartheid mean? → Policy of racial segregation in South Africa.
  2. Who was Nelson Mandela? → Leader of ANC, first black President of South Africa.
  3. When was apartheid abolished in South Africa? → 1994.
  4. When was Indian Constitution adopted? → 26 November 1949.
  5. When did the Indian Constitution come into force? → 26 January 1950.
  6. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee? → B. R. Ambedkar.
  7. Who was the President of Constituent Assembly? → Dr. Rajendra Prasad.
  8. How many members were in the Constituent Assembly? → 299 members.
  9. What is the Preamble? → Introduction to the Constitution expressing its ideals.
  10. Which day is celebrated as Republic Day? → 26 January.
  11. Which revolution inspired liberty, equality, fraternity? → French Revolution.
  12. Which country inspired Fundamental Rights? → USA.
  13. Which country inspired Directive Principles? → Ireland.
  14. Which country inspired Parliamentary system? → Britain.
  15. Who gave “Tryst with Destiny” speech? → Jawaharlal Nehru.
  16. What does “Sovereign” mean in the Preamble? → India is free to make its own decisions.
  17. What does “Secular” mean? → No state religion, equal respect for all religions.
  18. What does “Republic” mean? → Head of state is elected, not hereditary.
  19. When was Purna Swaraj declared? → 26 January 1930.
  20. How long did it take to frame the Indian Constitution? → 2 years 11 months 18 days.

 

C. Short Answer Questions with Answers (15)

(3–4 sentences each)

1. Why was South Africa’s Constitution considered special?
South Africa’s Constitution is considered special because it was born out of a long struggle against apartheid and racial discrimination. It gave equal rights to blacks and whites for the first time in history. It became a symbol of hope and reconciliation.

2. Who was Nelson Mandela and why is he admired?
Nelson Mandela was the leader of the African National Congress and the first black President of South Africa. He spent 28 years in jail fighting against apartheid. He is admired for his courage, sacrifice, and vision of equality.

3. What were the main features of apartheid?
Apartheid was a system of racial segregation in South Africa. Under it, non-whites were denied voting rights, forced to live in separate areas, and could not share public facilities with whites. It created deep social and economic inequalities.

4. How was apartheid abolished in South Africa?
The African National Congress (ANC) led mass protests and negotiations. In 1994, after long struggle, apartheid was officially abolished. A new democratic Constitution was adopted ensuring equal rights for all citizens.

5. Why did India need a Constitution after independence?
After independence, India faced problems of poverty, inequality, and communal tensions. A Constitution was needed to provide a framework for democracy, protect citizens’ rights, and ensure justice and equality. It also unified the diverse society of India.

6. Who was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee and what was his role?
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee. He played the most important role in preparing and shaping the Constitution of India. He is therefore called the “Father of the Indian Constitution.”

7. What is the significance of 26 January in Indian history?
26 January 1930 was celebrated as the day of Purna Swaraj (Complete Independence) by the Indian National Congress. To honour this, the Constitution was brought into force on 26 January 1950. Since then, it is celebrated as Republic Day.

8. Write two ideals mentioned in the Preamble.
The Preamble declares India to be Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. Two of its key ideals are Justice (social, economic, political) and Equality of status and opportunity.

9. How many women were part of the Constituent Assembly?
There were 15 women members in the Constituent Assembly. Leaders like Sarojini Naidu, Hansa Mehta, and Rajkumari Amrit Kaur contributed to debates and drafting.

10. What is the importance of the Preamble?
The Preamble is like the introduction to the Constitution. It explains the philosophy and guiding principles of the Constitution such as justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. It acts as the key to understanding the spirit of the Constitution.

11. From which countries did India borrow ideas for the Constitution?
India borrowed Fundamental Rights from the USA, Directive Principles from Ireland, and Parliamentary system from Britain. The idea of Justice – social, economic, political was influenced by the Russian Revolution.

12. How was the Constituent Assembly formed?
The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 under the Cabinet Mission Plan. Its members were indirectly elected by the provincial legislatures. It represented different regions, communities, and political groups.

13. Why is the Indian Constitution called the longest in the world?
The Indian Constitution is the longest in the world because it contains detailed provisions on administration, rights, duties, and powers. At the time of adoption, it had 395 Articles and 8 Schedules. It also accommodates India’s diversity and complexity.

14. What is the significance of “We the People” in the Preamble?
The phrase “We the People” shows that the Constitution gets its authority from the citizens of India. It declares that power lies with the people, not kings or rulers. It reflects the democratic principle of popular sovereignty.

15. Why is the Indian Constitution considered a living document?
The Constitution is called a living document because it can be amended according to the changing needs of society. Through amendments, new rights and provisions have been added over time. This makes it dynamic and adaptable.

D. Long Answer Questions with Answers (15)

(6–8 sentences each)

1. Explain the struggle against apartheid in South Africa and the role of Nelson Mandela.
Apartheid was a system of racial segregation in South Africa where blacks were denied basic rights. They could not vote, own property in certain areas, or use public facilities like whites. The African National Congress (ANC), led by Nelson Mandela, organised protests and resistance. Mandela spent 28 years in prison for his fight against injustice. Finally, apartheid was abolished in 1994, and Mandela became the first black President. His leadership symbolised courage, forgiveness, and the triumph of democracy.

2. Describe how apartheid was finally abolished in South Africa.
The apartheid system lasted for decades, causing deep inequality. The African National Congress and other groups carried out long struggles, strikes, and protests. International pressure and economic sanctions also weakened the apartheid regime. Negotiations between ANC leaders and the white government began in the 1990s. In 1994, apartheid was officially abolished, and elections were held with equal voting rights. Nelson Mandela became the first black President, and a new democratic Constitution was adopted.

3. Why does a democratic country need a Constitution? Explain with reasons.
A Constitution provides the basic framework for governance. It ensures that people’s rights are protected and power is not misused. It defines the powers of government and limits authority through laws. It also expresses the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity. Without a Constitution, democracy cannot function properly as there will be no rules or principles to guide it.

4. Describe the process of the making of the Indian Constitution.
The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 under the Cabinet Mission Plan. It had 299 members, representing different provinces, communities, and political groups. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the President and Dr. B. R. Ambedkar chaired the Drafting Committee. The Assembly debated each provision in detail for nearly three years. The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and came into force on 26 January 1950.

5. Write a note on the Constituent Assembly of India.
The Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 with 299 members. It represented all regions and communities of India. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was its President, while Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was Chairman of the Drafting Committee. It took 2 years 11 months 18 days to frame the Constitution. The Assembly adopted it on 26 November 1949. It became the guardian of Indian democracy.

6. Discuss the role of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in the making of the Constitution.
Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constituent Assembly. He played a key role in writing and shaping the Indian Constitution. He worked to include provisions of equality, justice, and protection of rights for the weaker sections. His vision ensured that the Constitution provided social justice and democracy. That is why he is called the “Father of the Indian Constitution.”

7. Why is the Preamble considered the key to the Constitution?
The Preamble expresses the ideals, objectives, and philosophy of the Constitution. It declares India as Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic. It mentions justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity as guiding principles. Like an introduction to a book, the Preamble helps us understand the spirit of the Constitution. It is considered the key to the Constitution.

8. Explain the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity in the Preamble.
The Preamble provides four major ideals. Justice ensures fairness – social, economic, and political. Liberty guarantees freedom of thought, expression, and belief. Equality means equal status and opportunity for all. Fraternity promotes brotherhood and unity among all citizens. These values make India a true democracy.

9. From which countries did India borrow ideas for its Constitution? Explain with examples.
India borrowed useful ideas from many countries. Fundamental Rights were inspired by the USA. Directive Principles came from Ireland. The Parliamentary system was taken from Britain. The principle of justice was influenced by the Russian Revolution, while liberty, equality, fraternity came from the French Revolution. India created a unique blend suitable to its conditions.

10. What is the significance of 26 November 1949 and 26 January 1950 in India?
On 26 November 1949, the Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution of India. On 26 January 1950, the Constitution came into force. The date 26 January was chosen to honour the day of Purna Swaraj in 1930. Since then, 26 January is celebrated as Republic Day. These dates mark the birth of India as a Republic.

11. How long did it take to draft the Indian Constitution? What does this show?
The Constitution took 2 years 11 months 18 days to be drafted. During this time, every clause was discussed and debated in detail. It shows the patience, dedication, and seriousness of the Constituent Assembly. It also reflects the importance given to democratic discussion and consensus. This careful drafting made the Constitution strong and durable.

12. Discuss the influence of the Indian National Movement on the Constitution.
The Indian National Movement was based on ideals of justice, equality, and freedom. Leaders like Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar inspired democratic values. The movement fought against colonial rule and discrimination. These experiences shaped the vision of the Constitution, which ensured rights and equality for all. Thus, the movement deeply influenced the making of the Constitution.

13. Why is the Indian Constitution the longest in the world?
The Indian Constitution is the longest because it provides detailed provisions for administration in a vast and diverse country. It originally had 395 Articles and 8 Schedules. It includes rights, duties, union-state relations, and emergency provisions. It also combines features borrowed from many countries. This detail was necessary to address India’s social and political complexity.

14. How did the makers of the Constitution ensure equality and freedom?
The makers of the Constitution guaranteed Fundamental Rights like equality before law, freedom of speech, and right against discrimination. Untouchability was abolished. Special provisions were made for weaker sections, women, and minorities. These measures ensured that all citizens enjoy equality and freedom in a democratic India.

15. Why is the Indian Constitution called a living document?
The Constitution is called a living document because it is dynamic and adaptable. It can be amended to meet changing needs of society. For example, new rights like the Right to Education were added later. Despite changes, the spirit of the Constitution remains the same. This flexibility makes it relevant for all times.