UPSC CSE Prelims
Liberal-Intellectual Principles Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 2 — a Directive Principle of State Policy.

Article 50 of the Indian Constitution, which falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV), explicitly directs the State to take steps to separate the judiciary from the executive in the public services of the State. This provision aims to ensure judicial independence and impartial administration of justice.

📝 Short Notes: Separation of Judiciary from Executive

• Article 50: Part of Directive Principles of State Policy (Part IV), mandates separation of judiciary from executive in public services
• Nature: Not legally enforceable but fundamental in governance (Article 37)
• Purpose: Ensures judicial independence, prevents executive interference, promotes impartial justice delivery
• Implementation: Most states have separated judiciary from executive at district and subordinate levels
• Contrast with Legislature: Separation from legislature is ensured through specific Constitutional provisions (Articles 121, 122, 211, 212)
• Historical Context: Borrowed from Irish Constitution; reflects commitment to rule of law

Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 1 — The intelligence and character of ordinary men and women.

The superior virtue of democracy lies in its ability to call into activity the intelligence and character of ordinary men and women, making them active participants rather than passive subjects in governance. Democracy is fundamentally built on the principle of citizen participation, where collective wisdom of informed and engaged people leads to better decision-making and promotes societal welfare. While strong leadership and dedicated party workers have their roles, the true strength of democracy rests in empowering the citizenry, ensuring that governance reflects the will, values, and character of the common people rather than an elite few.