UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 39
Which one of the following factors constitutes the best safeguard of liberty in a liberal democracy?
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: D
Correct Option: D (Separation of powers)
Explanation: Separation of legislative, executive and judicial power restrains concentration of authority and offers structural protection for individual liberty.
Option-wise Analysis:
A. Incorrect-A committed judiciary helps but cannot substitute for independent checks among branches.
B. Incorrect-Centralisation increases the risk of arbitrary power rather than safeguarding liberty.
C. Incorrect-Elections alone do not prevent abuse without constitutional checks.
D. Correct-separation of powers limits and checks state authority.