Which one of the following statements best reflects the Chief purpose of the 'Constitution' of a country?

(a) It determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.
(b) It enables the creation of political offices and a government.
(c) It defines and limits the powers of government. ✓ UPSC's answer
(d) It secures social justice, social equality and social security.

Why the answer is (c)

• The chief purpose of a constitution, in the constitutionalist tradition, is to define the powers of government and to limit them — establishing what the State may do and protecting citizens from arbitrary rule — option (c).

• Creating offices and a government (option b) and setting objectives for laws (option a) are functions a constitution performs, but they serve the larger goal of constituting a limited government.

• Securing social justice and security (option d) is an aspiration of some constitutions, including India's Preamble and Directive Principles, but not the defining purpose of the institution of a constitution.

• India's Constitution does this through fundamental rights, separation of powers and judicial review.

• Hence option (c).

Why the other options are wrong

(a) It determines the objective for the making of necessary laws.: Guiding legislation is a function, not the chief purpose.
(b) It enables the creation of political offices and a government.: Creating offices is a means; limiting their power is the purpose.
(d) It secures social justice, social equality and social security.: Social justice is an aspiration of some constitutions, not the defining purpose.

Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2023, held on 28 May 2023. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.