'X' was addressing a seminar on the meaning of the term 'law' as provided under Article 13, Part III of the Constitution of India. 'X' explained that the meaning of the term 'law' in the Constitution of India was very comprehensive. It included ordinances, orders and even rules and regulations. 'Y' pointed out that the term 'law' in Article 13 also included custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law, to which 'X' was not convinced. Based on the above, select the correct conclusion from the options given below :
- (a) 'X' is correct in the interpretation of law, including the view on non-inclusion of custom.
- (b) The view of 'Y' that 'law' included custom is not correct.
- (c) The views of both 'X' and 'Y' are correct.
- (d) The view of only 'Y' is correct. ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Article 13(3)(a) defines 'law' for Part III to include any Ordinance, order, bye-law, rule, regulation, notification, custom or usage having in the territory of India the force of law.
• X is right that the definition is wide and covers ordinances, orders, rules and regulations, but wrong to reject custom: custom or usage with the force of law is expressly named in the Article.
• Y's point is therefore textually correct; customs (e.g. those tested in cases on excommunication or temple entry) can be struck down if they violate fundamental rights.
• Because X's conclusion on custom is mistaken, X's interpretation as a whole cannot be called correct; only Y's view stands.
• Hence option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) 'X' is correct in the interpretation of law, including the view on non-inclusion of…
- X's rejection of custom contradicts the express text of Article 13(3)(a).
- (b) The view of 'Y' that 'law' included custom is not correct.
- Y is correct: custom or usage with the force of law is included in 'law'.
- (c) The views of both 'X' and 'Y' are correct.
- X's view on custom is wrong, so both cannot be correct.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2026, held on 24 May 2026. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.