UPSC CARE Mains Practice 27th February 2026

Mains Practice Questions for the Day

Q.The Sabarimala case represents a conflict between religious autonomy and constitutional morality. Discuss the significance of the Anti-Exclusion Test in resolving this conflict. (GS Paper II – Polity and Governance)

Introduction:

The Sabarimala case (Indian Young Lawyers Association vs State of Kerala, 2018) represents a major constitutional debate between religious freedom and fundamental rights. The Supreme Court allowed entry of women into the Sabarimala temple and introduced new constitutional reasoning, including the Anti-Exclusion Test.

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Essential Religious Practices Doctrine and its Limitations
Traditionally, courts used the Essential Religious Practices (ERP) doctrine to decide whether a religious practice deserved constitutional protection.
However, ERP doctrine has limitations:
- Courts interpret religious beliefs, which may undermine secularism.
- It lacks objective criteria.
- It may allow discriminatory practices if declared essential.
Thus, ERP doctrine was inadequate in protecting individual dignity.
Anti-Exclusion Test and its Significance
Justice Chandrachud proposed the Anti-Exclusion Test as a constitutional alternative. Its key features include:
1. Protection of Individual Dignity
The test focuses on whether religious practices violate dignity and equality.
2. Shift from Theology to Constitution
Courts do not decide religious essentiality but examine constitutional impact.
3. Protection of Fundamental Rights
The test ensures religious freedom does not violate:
- Equality (Article 14)
- Freedom (Article 21)
- Religious freedom (Article 25)
4. Promotes Constitutional Morality
The test ensures constitutional values prevail over discriminatory customs.
Broader Constitutional Impact
The anti-exclusion test will influence future cases involving:
- Religious exclusion
- Gender justice
- Religious autonomy vs fundamental rights
It strengthens constitutional supremacy.

Conclusion:

The Anti-Exclusion Test represents a progressive constitutional approach. It protects religious freedom while ensuring dignity, equality, and justice. It strengthens constitutional morality and ensures that religious practices remain consistent with constitutional principles.

Q. India–Canada relations witnessed a major diplomatic crisis in 2023 but are now moving towards normalization. Examine the causes of the deterioration and discuss the factors driving the recent reset in bilateral relations. Also analyse the significance of India–Canada ties for India’s strategic and economic interests. (GS Paper 2 – International Relations)

Introduction:

India and Canada share long-standing bilateral relations based on democratic values, trade, diaspora linkages, and strategic cooperation. However, ties deteriorated sharply in 2023 following allegations by Canada regarding India’s involvement in the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Since 2025, both countries have taken steps to restore diplomatic engagement and cooperation.

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Causes of Deterioration in India–Canada Relations

1. Nijjar Assassination Controversy (2023)

Canada alleged Indian government involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Nijjar.
India strongly rejected the allegations as “absurd and motivated”.

2. Diplomatic Escalation

Both countries expelled diplomats and withdrew High Commissioners.
Visa services and diplomatic engagement were restricted.

3. Khalistan Issue and Security Concerns

India raised concerns about Canada being a safe haven for extremist elements.
Differences over handling of separatist activities created mistrust.

Factors Leading to the Reset of Relations

1. Leadership Change in Canada

Prime Minister Mark Carney adopted a pragmatic approach and separated legal investigation from diplomatic ties.

2. Diplomatic Engagement and Dialogue

Meetings between leaders at the G7 Summit and restoration of High Commissioners.
Creation of a framework under National Security Advisors to address security concerns.

3. Economic and Strategic Interests

Negotiations for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Trade reached about $30.8 billion, with a target of $70 billion by 2030.

Significance of India–Canada Relations for India

1. Economic Importance

Canada is a major source of fertilizers, energy, and critical minerals.
Important investor and trade partner.

2. Strategic and Geopolitical Importance

Canada is a member of G7 and Five Eyes intelligence alliance.
Cooperation in Indo-Pacific and emerging technologies.

3. Diaspora and Educational Linkages

Canada hosts over 1.8 million Indo-Canadians.
Large number of Indian students studying in Canada strengthens people-to-people ties.

4. Energy Security

Canada is a reliable supplier of oil, LNG, and critical minerals needed for India’s energy transition.

Challenges / Concerns

Trust deficit due to past diplomatic tensions
Issue of extremist activities and security concerns
Political sensitivities related to diaspora and domestic politics

Way Forward

Strengthen diplomatic dialogue and mutual trust
Enhance cooperation in trade, energy, and technology
Address security concerns through institutional mechanisms
Promote people-to-people and educational exchanges

Conclusion:

India–Canada relations are strategically important due to economic complementarities, diaspora linkages, and geopolitical convergence. The recent diplomatic reset provides an opportunity to rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation in trade, security, and global governance, contributing to stability and mutual growth.