Quiz: Guess Landmark Supreme Court Judgments for UPSC 2025

Landmark judgments of the Supreme Court of India play a vital role in shaping the constitutional and legal framework of the nation. For UPSC aspirants, having a sound understanding of these judgments is crucial for Prelims, Mains, and Personality Test. This quiz-style approach helps you test your knowledge of famous cases that defined fundamental rights, governance, and social justice in India.

Quiz: Guess Landmark SC Judgments

The Supreme Court of India has delivered several historic verdicts that have transformed constitutional interpretation, strengthened democracy, and expanded citizens' rights. These judgments are not just legal precedents but milestones in India's evolution as a constitutional republic.

Let's test your knowledge through a fun and informative "Guess the Landmark Judgment" quiz - perfect for UPSC aspirants.

Quiz: Guess the Landmark Supreme Court Judgments

Q1.

This case established the Basic Structure Doctrine, ruling that Parliament cannot alter the basic structure of the Constitution.

Answer: Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973)
Significance: Limited Parliament's amending power; cornerstone of constitutional supremacy.

Q2.

This judgment declared Right to Privacy as a Fundamental Right under Article 21.

Answer: Justice K.S. Puttaswamy (Retd.) v. Union of India (2017)
Significance: Strengthened citizens' digital and informational privacy rights.

Q3.

In this case, the Supreme Court laid down guidelines against sexual harassment at the workplace.

Answer: Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997)
Significance: Formed the basis of the POSH Act, 2013; ensured workplace dignity.

Q4.

This judgment upheld the Right to Education as a Fundamental Right under Article 21-A.

Answer: Unnikrishnan v. State of Andhra Pradesh (1993)
Significance: Led to the enactment of the RTE Act, 2009.

Q5.

The Supreme Court ruled that the President's satisfaction under Article 356 is subject to judicial review.

Answer: S.R. Bommai v. Union of India (1994)
Significance: Reinforced federalism and restricted misuse of President's Rule.

Q6.

This case legalized passive euthanasia under certain conditions.

Answer: Aruna Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011)
Significance: Recognized the right to die with dignity under Article 21.

Q7.

The court recognized transgender persons as a third gender with equal rights.

Answer: National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) v. Union of India (2014)
Significance: Promoted inclusivity and equality under Articles 14, 15, and 21.

Q8.

This verdict declared Section 377 IPC unconstitutional, decriminalizing homosexuality.

Answer: Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India (2018)
Significance: Strengthened LGBTQ+ rights and personal liberty.

Q9.

The court ruled that Right to Freedom of Speech includes the Right to Information.

Answer: State of Uttar Pradesh v. Raj Narain (1975)
Significance: Paved the way for transparency and accountability in governance.

Q10.

This case reaffirmed the independence of the judiciary by striking down the NJAC Act.

Answer: Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association v. Union of India (2015)
Significance: Restored the Collegium system of judicial appointments.

How to Use This Quiz for UPSC Preparation

• Revise Key Facts: Note the year, constitutional articles, and implications.
• Make Flashcards: Create one-liners for daily quick revision.
• Link Topics: Connect judgments with GS Paper 2 (Polity & Governance) and Ethics Paper (GS 4).
• Essay Relevance: Use examples from these judgments to strengthen essay arguments on democracy, rights, and justice.
• Mock Interviews: Be prepared to discuss one or two landmark cases and their societal impacts.

Conclusion

Understanding landmark Supreme Court judgments is vital for every UPSC aspirant. These cases are not only essential for exams but also enrich your perspective on constitutional morality and governance. Regularly engaging with quizzes like this enhances retention, analytical skills, and answer articulation.