Indian Polity and Constitution
This domain checks the constitutional framework: rights, duties, directive principles, Parliament, President, judiciary, federalism and amendment procedures. HP Patwari questions often use paired concepts and ask which one is enforceable or which institution has a particular power.
Core rules
- The Constitution was adopted on 26 November 1949 and enforced on 26 January 1950. Fundamental Rights are in Part III, Directive Principles in Part IV, and Fundamental Duties in Part IVA under Article 51A.
- Parliament consists of the President, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. A Money Bill under Article 110 can be introduced only in the Lok Sabha, with the President's recommendation.
- Article 32 provides the right to move the Supreme Court for enforcement of Fundamental Rights; High Courts issue writs under Article 226, which is wider but not itself a Fundamental Right.
- The President is elected indirectly; the Governor is appointed. The Prime Minister is the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha.
- The Seventh Schedule divides subjects into Union, State and Concurrent lists; the 73rd and 74th Amendments deal with local government.
Worked example
A citizen's Fundamental Right is violated and the person moves the Supreme Court directly. The correct article is 32. Reason: Article 32 is itself a Fundamental Right and provides constitutional remedies; Article 226 belongs to High Courts and can cover legal rights too.
Traps that cost marks
Directive Principles and Fundamental Duties are not directly enforceable in courts. The President is not directly elected. A Money Bill cannot originate in the Rajya Sabha. Do not confuse Article 32 with Article 226.