Official Answer:

The straight-ahead road sign “and” in the first sentence is a clue that the word in the blank is a continuation of the idea already presented. The words “onslaught” and “intransigent” both have negative connotations in the context and thus hint that the missing word also has a negative charge. In addition, the keywords “suppressed,”“relentless,” and “persecution,” which also have negative connotations, support our reasoning. We are therefore looking for a word that describes laws that smother the rights of a group and permit their harassment. A good prediction might be: “The onslaught of intransigent and unfair laws has suppressed the rights of minority groups.”

Based on this prediction, choices (B) iniquitous and (F) unrighteous, both meaning “unjust” or “unfair,” are the correct answers. Choice (A) obsolete, meaning “outdated,” is incorrect because the laws are still in practice. Choice (C) inclusive, meaning “comprehensive,” is incorrect because it has a positive connotation and does not describe “unfair” laws. Similarly, Choice (D) flexible, or “willing to yield,” can be ruled out because it means the opposite of “intransigent.” Finally, Choice (E) universal is incorrect because the laws are applicable only to the minority groups; they are not universal or “complete.”