2020 · GS Paper 4 · Q4(a) · 10 marks
Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them.
In short
Laws are legislature-made norms creating substantive rights and duties, while rules are executive-framed procedures under a parent Act and void if they exceed it. Ethics shapes both, as the RTE Act's 25% private school quota and the 2024 striking down of the IT Rules fact check unit show.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 288 words
Hierarchy of validity
A rule that goes beyond its parent Act is void as ultra vires, even when the Act itself is valid.
Depth of scrutiny
Bills are debated and passed by both Houses, while rules are only laid before Parliament and checked by its Committees on Subordinate Legislation, so executive restraint matters more.
Justice as purpose
The RTE Act, 2009 turned equal opportunity into a duty by reserving 25% of entry seats in private schools for disadvantaged children.
Moral reform
Raja Ram Mohan Roy's campaign preceded the Bengal Sati Regulation of 1829, and the Vishaka judgment (1997) grew into the POSH Act, 2013.
Restraint on delegated power
In Kunal Kamra (2024) the Bombay High Court struck down the IT Rules amendment creating a government fact check unit as a threat to free speech.
Fair process
The Pre-Legislative Consultation Policy, 2014 asks for 30 days of public comment on drafts, as followed for the DPDP Rules, 2025.
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This chapter in the exam
Laws, rules, regulations and conscience as sources of ethical guidance16 questions
Asked in 9 of 14 sittings since 2013
- 2026Dr. B. R. Ambedkar had cautioned that employing civil disobedience within a constitutional democracy equates to endorsing 'anarchy'. How should modern democracies navigate the ethical dilemmas posed by civil disobedience movements that aim to promote social justice against policies that may raise genuine concerns?
- 2026Usually schools, working in remote areas, do not fully comply with government regulations. However, if the rules are enforced strictly, it would lead to most schools closing down. How should an administrator strike a balance between enforcement of rules and educational rights of children?
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Question from the official UPSC Civil Services (Main) Examination 2020 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.