Indian Polity and Constitution
What this domain tests
Indian Polity and Constitution tests the Constitution's structure, rights, duties, institutions, amendments and Karnataka's government. Expect Articles, Schedules, federalism, panchayati raj and legislative procedure.
Core rules
- Preamble: sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic; justice, liberty, equality, fraternity.
- Fundamental Rights are justiciable; Directive Principles are non-justiciable goals. Fundamental Duties are in Article 51A.
- Legislature: Parliament has President, Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. Karnataka has a bicameral legislature: Legislative Assembly and Legislative Council.
- Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts and subordinate courts; judicial review protects constitutional supremacy.
- Local government: 73rd and 74th Amendments (1992) gave constitutional status to panchayats and municipalities.
Worked example
Question: The right to privacy is protected under which Article? Reason: In K.S. Puttaswamy v Union of India (2017), the Supreme Court held privacy is part of the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21. It is not a separate Article 19 right. Answer: Article 21.
Traps that cost marks
Do not call Directive Principles enforceable in court; do not confuse President with Governor; do not say a Money Bill can originate in Rajya Sabha. Read whether the question asks for the Article, the Amendment or the case name.