UPSC Prelims 2023·GS1·polity-and-governance·constitution

Which one of the following statements best reflects the Chief purpose of the 'Constitution' of a country?

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Last updated 23 May 2026, 3:31 pm IST
  1. AIt determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.
  2. BIt enables the creation of political offices and a government.
  3. CIt defines and limits the powers of government.Correct
  4. DIt secures social justice, social equality and social security.

Explanation

While all the given options describe important functions or goals associated with a Constitution, the chief or fundamental purpose of a Constitution is to establish a framework for governance and, critically, to define and limit the powers of the government. This limitation of power is essential to prevent tyranny, ensure accountability, and protect the rights and liberties of citizens. By delineating the powers of different branches of government, specifying their functions, and often including a Bill of Rights, a constitution prevents the arbitrary exercise of authority and ensures that the government operates within prescribed boundaries. The other options, such as determining objectives for laws, enabling creation of offices, or securing social justice, are either secondary functions or ultimate goals that are achieved through the primary mechanism of defining and limiting governmental power.
polity-and-governance: Which one of the following statements best reflects the Chief purpose of the 'Constitution' of a country?
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