Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 182

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -182

Q1. Freedom of Conscience and National Symbols

With reference to freedom of conscience and national symbols, consider the following statements:

1. Article 25 of the Constitution protects freedom of conscience.
2. A conscientious refusal to sing a national song is necessarily equivalent to showing disrespect to the nation.
3. The constitutional approach can distinguish respectful non-participation from deliberate disrespect.
4. Bijoe Emmanuel v. State of Kerala is relevant to the constitutional protection of conscientious objection.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: Statements 1, 3 and 4 are supported by the supplied material. Article 25 protects freedom of conscience, while Article 19 is also relevant to expression. The Supreme Court discussion referred to the principle underlying Bijoe Emmanuel, where respectful refusal to sing the National Anthem on genuine religious grounds received constitutional protection. Statement 2 is the trap: conscientious non-participation cannot automatically be equated with disrespect. The important constitutional distinction is between respectful refusal and active insult or disruption. The broader principle is that constitutional patriotism seeks to protect national symbols without unnecessarily destroying legitimate individual freedom of conscience.

Q2. Election Commission and Digital Governance

Consider the following statements:

1. Article 324 deals with the Election Commission's supervision, direction and control over elections.
2. Digitisation of electoral rolls automatically removes the need for statutory accountability.
3. Digital electoral systems should remain auditable and transparent.
4. Technological architecture should not override legally assigned powers and procedures.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 3 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b) 1, 3 and 4 only