Topic: Indian Constitution– historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure.
2. Discuss the merits and costs of involving children in protests and political actions while bringing out the constitutional provisions associated with the same in our country. (250 words)
Reference: The Hindu
Why this question:
The question is in the background of recent Supreme Court’s move to take suo motu cognizance of children taking part in demonstrations in Shaheen Bagh in Delhi.
Key demand of the question:
The answer must discuss the merits and costs of involving children in protests and political actions and discuss the constitutional provisions associated with it.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Briefly explain what constitutes – the right to protest and what are the constitutional provisions associated with it in the country.
Body:
List down the basic provisions associated with the right to protest in the country. Explain significance of Article 19; right to protest, United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) etc. Then move onto discuss in what way questions have emerged whether it is responsible parenting to protect children from these issues or to involve children in the middle of a protest that involves police action and could become volatile. Take hints from the article and present your opinion with suitable justifications.
Conclusion:
Take a fair and balanced approach and conclude with a middle path that strikes balance between right to protest and protection of children in such incidences.
