Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 125

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -125

Q1. With reference to the right to peaceful protest, consider the following statements:

1. Peaceful assembly is protected under Article 19 of the Constitution.
2. The State may impose reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order.
3. Once a protest becomes large, the police can use any degree of force necessary to disperse it.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

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

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1 and 2 are correct. The Constitution protects peaceful expression and assembly, but these rights are subject to reasonable restrictions. Statement 3 is incorrect because police action must satisfy legality, necessity and proportionality. The size of a protest alone cannot justify unlimited force. National guidelines on crowd control can improve consistency through warnings, graded response, documentation and accountability. Elimination clue: phrases such as “any degree of force” usually make a statement constitutionally excessive. Democratic policing requires minimum necessary force, not unrestricted coercion.

Q2. Which of the following best explains the constitutional significance of government assurances given during negotiations with protesters?

(a) They automatically become constitutional amendments.
(b) They are politically relevant because failure to honour them may weaken public trust and democratic credibility.
(c) They permanently prevent investigation of criminal offences committed during protests.
(d) They remove all powers of the police.

Correct Answer: (b)