Ten MCQs on current International and national events - 147

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

A-Category MCQs -147

1. With reference to the Supreme Court's approach towards FIRs registered against student protesters, consider the following statements:

1. Peaceful participation in a protest and involvement in serious criminal activity need not be treated identically.
2. The Supreme Court proposed using its powers under Article 142 in relation to the FIRs.
3. Freedom of peaceful assembly prevents the State from taking action against violence committed during a demonstration.
4. Individualised assessment can help reconcile democratic dissent with maintenance of public order.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (b)

Explanation: Statements 1, 2 and 4 are correct. The Supreme Court agreed to invoke Article 142 to quash FIRs against students involved in nationwide NEET-UG protests, while police said investigation would be confined to 2,873 persons with “serious criminal antecedents”. Statement 3 is incorrect because constitutional protection for peaceful protest does not immunise identifiable violence or criminal conduct. Elimination clue: distinguish peaceful participation from individual criminal culpability. The Court's approach stresses proportionality and individual assessment rather than indiscriminate criminalisation of protesters.

2. With reference to the use of facial-recognition technology (FRT) in policing, consider the following statements:

1. FRT can assist police in identifying suspects from large gatherings.
2. A legitimate State interest automatically makes every use of FRT constitutionally proportionate.
3. Indiscriminate facial recognition at demonstrations may produce a chilling effect on peaceful participation.
4. Purpose limitation, accuracy standards and independent oversight can serve as safeguards.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Correct Answer: (a)