UPSC Notes

Impunity and Rule of Law

PYQs

8

Articles

1

Momentum

21

Phase IFoundation

Background

Overview

UPSC examines the functioning of the Indian legal and political system, including challenges to its integrity and effectiveness. Impunity highlights issues of governance, accountability, and the upholding of constitutional principles like equality before the law.

The concept of impunity refers to the exemption from punishment or freedom from the injurious consequences of an action, often implying a failure of the justice system to hold individuals, especially powerful ones, accountable. It directly challenges the principle of the Rule of Law, which mandates that all individuals and institutions are accountable to laws that are publicly promulgated, equally enforced, and independently adjudicated.

Phase IIStatic core

Facts & tables

Key facts

Impact on Trust

Impunity undermines public trust in the judiciary and law enforcement.

Perpetuation of Injustice

It can perpetuate cycles of crime and injustice, particularly against vulnerable groups.

Democratic Principle

The Rule of Law is a fundamental tenet of democratic governance, ensuring equality before the law.

Contributing Factors

Factors contributing to impunity can include political influence, corruption, and systemic weaknesses in legal processes.

Related topics

Practice writing on this topic

UPSC has asked 8 linked questions on Impunity and Rule of Law in Mains. Write an answer to one — and get it evaluated.

UPSC Prelims PYQs on Impunity and Rule of Law

Practice official previous year questions asked by UPSC related to this concept.

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