Q1. Which landmark case observed that “no civilized system can permit the executive to play with its citizens under the guise of sovereign immunity”?
- P & O Steam Navigation Case
- Kasturilal Case
- Common Cause Case
- Nagendra Rao Case
Correct Option: 4. Nagendra Rao Case.
Explanation: The 1994 SC judgment in Nagendra Rao rejected archaic immunity doctrines and emphasized accountability of the state for negligent acts of its servants.
Q2. What legal development in the UK inspired Indian critiques of sovereign immunity?
- Magna Carta
- Crown Proceedings Act, 1947
- Act of Union, 1707
- English Bill of Rights
Correct Option: 2. Crown Proceedings Act, 1947.
Explanation: This Act abolished the absolute sovereign immunity of the Crown in the UK, which Indian courts have referred to when evaluating the doctrine’s continuing applicability in India.
Q3. In which situation does the President/Governor enjoy personal immunity even after demitting office?
- Acts done in personal capacity during term
- Acts done in official capacity
- No immunity after term ends
- Civil suits filed before resignation
Correct Option: 2. Acts done in official capacity.
Explanation: Immunity under Article 361 extends beyond their tenure for official acts. However, for personal acts, immunity ceases after the term.
Q4. Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding Article 299(1) government contracts?
- Contracts must be in the name of the President/Governor.
- Execution must be by authorized persons.
- Oral contracts are valid if public interest is served.
- Non-compliance renders the contract void.
Correct Option: 3. Oral contracts are valid if public interest is served.
Explanation: Oral contracts are not valid. All three conditions of Article 299(1) are mandatory; otherwise, contracts are void ab initio.
Q5. Which of the following cannot be claimed under the doctrine of escheat (Article 296)?
- Unclaimed land of a deceased person without heirs
- Unowned vehicle found in a state
- State acquisition through auction
- Inheritance unclaimed for years
Correct Option: 3. State acquisition through auction
Explanation: Auction is a positive method of transfer, not a case of escheat (where there’s no rightful claimant).