Theme T83 · Constitution & Polity
Judicial activism, PIL, judicial legislation & separation of powers
5PYQs
5GS2
2014–20265 distinct years
2asked 2024–26
Roadmap · step 38 of 171 · Stage 2: Building blocks
What UPSC asks
Questions ask about PIL's growth, judicial activism, judicial legislation and separation of powers, and specific verdicts like passive euthanasia.
Prepare these
- Separation of powers vs checks and balances
- PIL origins and misuse
- Judicial legislation examples: Vishaka, euthanasia (Aruna Shanbaug, Common Cause)
Answer writing
- Balance activism vs overreach
Directive words in these PYQs: Explain (2), Discuss (1), Justify (1), Do you think (1), Evaluate (1).
Linked themes
Builds on: study these first
These come earlier in the roadmap. Questions in this theme use them.
Syllabus lines covered
- GS2-L3 — Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions.
All 5 PYQs, newest first
GS2202615 marks · 250 wordsGS2-POL-07-M2026-S01
What is meant by judicial legislation? In this context, discuss the verdicts of the apex court allowing “passive euthanasia” and a “living will”
GS2202415 marks · 250 wordsGS2-POL-07-M2024-Q14
Explain the reasons for the growth of public interest litigation in India. As a result of it, has the Indian Supreme Court emerged as the world's most powerful judiciary?
GS22020GS2-POL-07-M2020-S01
Judicial Legislation is antithetical to the doctrine of separation of powers as envisaged in the Indian Constitution. In this context justify the filing of large number of public interest petitions praying for issuing guidelines to executive authorities.
GS22019GS2-POL-07-M2019-S01
Do you think that Constitution of India does not accept principle of strict separation of powers rather it is based on the principle of ‘checks and balance’? Explain.
GS22014GS2-POL-07-M2014-S01
Starting from inventing the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, the judiciary has played a highly proactive role in ensuring that India develops into a thriving democracy. In light of the statement, evaluate the role played by judicial activism in achieving the ideals of democracy.