Question (IAS Prelims–2026)
With reference to the recent legal interventions and advocacy initiatives of the People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), consider the following statements:
PUCL’s challenge to the Bihar voter roll revision raises concerns about procedural fairness and constitutional guarantees of universal adult franchise.
PUCL’s opposition to anti-conversion laws is primarily based on alleged violations of freedom of conscience under Article 25 of the Constitution.
PUCL’s role in enforcing encounter guidelines seeks judicial oversight over police actions to uphold the right to life under Article 21.
The report “Broken State, Divided People” focuses on Centre–State fiscal relations arising from GST implementation.
Collectively, these interventions reflect PUCL’s engagement in safeguarding civil liberties through both litigation and fact-finding mechanisms.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(d) 1, 3 and 5 only
Option-wise Explanation
Statement 1 – Correct
The challenge to Bihar voter roll revision is conceptually linked to electoral integrity, due process, and the constitutional principle of universal adult suffrage, rather than mere administrative dispute.
Statement 2 – Correct
PUCL’s challenge to anti-conversion laws is rooted in the freedom of conscience and religious choice under Article 25, especially concerns over coercive state scrutiny and presumption of illegality.
Statement 3 – Correct
PUCL has consistently invoked Article 21 to demand enforcement of Supreme Court-mandated encounter guidelines, emphasizing accountability and rule of law in police operations.
Statement 4 – Incorrect
The report “Broken State, Divided People” deals with human rights, governance deficits, social fragmentation, and state accountability, not fiscal federalism or GST-related Centre–State issues.
Statement 5 – Correct
PUCL’s actions reflect a dual strategy:
Strategic litigation (voter rolls, encounters, conversion laws)
Rights documentation and advocacy (fact-finding reports)