Political Science (9th) Textbook

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Chapter 1 What is Democracy? Why Democracy?

NCERT TEXTBOOK QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

Q. 1. Here is some information about four countries. Based on this information, how would you classify each of these countries. Write ‘democratic’, ‘undemocratic’ or ‘not sure’ against each of these.

(a) Country A: People who do not accept the country’s official religion do not have a right to vote.

Ans. Not sure.

(b) Country B: The same party has been winning elections for the last twenty years.

Ans. Undemocratic.

(c) Country C: Ruling party has lost in the last three elections.

Ans. Democratic.

(d) Country D: There is no independent Election Commission.

Ans. Undemocratic.

Q. 2. Here is some information about four countries. Based on this information, how would you classify each of these Countries. Write ‘democratic’, ‘undemocratic’ or ‘not sure’ against each of these.

(a) Country P: The parliament cannot pass a law about the army without the consent of the Chief of Army.

Ans. Undemocratic.

(b) Country Q: The parliament cannot pass a law reducing the powers of the judiciary.

Ans. Democratic.

(c) Country R: The country’s leaders cannot sign any treaty with another country without taking permission from its neighboring country.

Ans. Undemocratic.

(d) Country S: All the major economic decisions about the country are taken by officials of the central bank which the ministers cannot change.

Ans. Undemocratic.

Q. 3. Which of these is not a good argument in favor of democracy? Why?

(a) People feel free and equal in a democracy.

(b) Democracies resolve conflict in a better way than others.

(c) Democratic government is more accountable to the people. 

(d) Democracies are more prosperous than others.

Ans. (d) “Democracies are more prosperous than others.” This argument is not in favor of democracy. Because in democratic countries the poor and the rich all are living and all of them have a say, because their representatives make decisions according to their welfare and benefit. The representatives also feel that they will be chosen according to their work. So they also remain in the grip of fear. So they work hard.

Q. 4. Each of these statements contain a democratic and an undemocratic element. Write out the two separately for each statement.

(a) A minister said that some laws have to be passed by the parliament in order to confirm to the regulations decided by the World Trade Organization.

Ans. Undemocratic.

(b) The Election Commission ordered re-polling in a constituency where large scale rigging was reported.

Ans. Democratic.

(c) Women’s representation in the parliament has never reached 10 per cent. This led women’s organizations to demand one-third seats for women.

Ans. Democratic. 

Q. 5. Which of these is not a valid reason for arguing that there is a lesser possibility of famine in a democratic country?

(a) Opposition parties can draw attention to hunger and starvation.

(b) Free press can report suffering from famine in different parts of the country. 

(c) Government fears its defeat in the next elections.

(d) People are free to believe in and practice any religion.

Ans. (d) People are free to believe in and practice any religion.

Q. 6. There are 40 villages in a district where the government has made no provision for drinking water. These villagers met and considered many methods of forcing the government to respond to their need. Which of these is not a democratic method? 

(a) Filing a case in the courts claiming that water is part of right to life. 

(b) Boycotting the next elections to give a message to all parties. 

(c) Organizing public meetings against government’s policies.

(d) Paying money to government officials to get water. 

Ans. (d) Paying money to government.

Q. 7. Write a response to the following arguments against democracy: 

(a) Army is the most disciplined and corruption-free organization in the country. Therefore army should rule the country.

Ans. Army should not rule the country of being disciplined and corruption free because the army don’t present the will of the people of the country.

(b) Rule of the majority means the rule of ignorant people. What we need is the rule of the wise, even if they are in small numbers.

Ans. We don’t need the rule of wise in democracy if they are in small numbers because in democracy those should rule who represent the majority. Rule of majority does not mean the rule of ignorant people.

(c) If we want religious leaders to guide us in spiritual matters, why not invite them to guide us in politics as well. The country should be ruled by religious leaders.

Ans. The country should not be ruled by religious leaders in democracy because religion is matter of personal belief and faith in a supernatural power. Whereas democracy is totally based on the need and problems of man. 

Q. 8. Are the following statements in keeping with democracy as a value? Why? 

(a) Father to daughter: I don’t want to hear your opinion about your marriage. In our family children marry where the parents tell them to.

Ans. The statement does not have democratic value, instead it how the elements of dictatorship of father. Because in democra everyone has the right to freedom of thought, opinion and to marry anyone he/she like.

(b) Teacher to student: Don’t disturb my concentration by asking me questions in the classroom.

Ans. No, the statement does not keep the democratic value, because in a broader sense the students have the right to ask any question to the teacher related to the subject. 

(c) Employee to the officer: Our working hours must be reduced according to the law.

Ans. Yes, the statement keeps the democratic value, because in working hours are divided by the law of country made by the people’s representatives in parliament.

Q. 9. Consider the following facts about a country and decide if you would call it a democracy. Give reasons to support your decision.

(a) All the citizens of the country have right to vote. Elections are held regularly.

Ans. In a democratic country every man has right to vote.

(b) The country took loan from international agencies. One of the conditions for giving loan was that the government would reduce its expenses on education and health.

Ans. Education and health expenditure cannot be reduced in a democratic country.

(c) People speak more than seven languages but education is available only in one language, the language spoken by 52 percent people of that country.

Ans. In a democratic country it cannot be done, beyond its resources.

(d) Several organizations have given a call for peaceful demonstrations and nation wide strikes in the country to oppose these policies. Government has arrested these leaders.

Ans. In a democratic country it happens Occasionally. 

(e) The government owns the radio and television in the country. All the newspapers have to get permission from the government’s policies and protests.

Ans. This is not democratic because freedom of press is must.

Q. 10. In 2004 a report published in USA pointed to the increasing inequalities in that country. Inequalities in income reflected in the participation of people in democracy. It also shaped their abilities to influence the decisions taken by the government. The report highlighted that:

• If an average Black family earns $ 100 then the income of average White family is $ 162. A White family has twelve times more wealth than the average Black family.
• In a President’s election, nearly nine out of 10 individuals in families with income over $ 75,000 have voted. These people are the top 20% of the population in terms of their income. On the other hand only 5 people out of 10 from families with income less than $ 15,000 have voted. They are the bottom 20% of the population in terms of their income.
• About 95% contribution to the political parties comes from the rich. This gives them opportunity to express their opinion and concern, which is not available to most citizens.
• As poor sections participate less in politics, the government does not listen to their concerns-coming out of poverty, getting job, education, health care and housing from them. Politicians hear most regularly about the concerns of business and the most rich.

Q. 11. Write an essay on ‘Democracy and Poverty’ using the information given in this report but using examples from India. 

Ans. It is right that there is a fight between the have and have nots. The facts mentioned in the report of 2004 in USA clearly indicate that rich people are more influencing than the poor. They are the decision makers. All the policies are set by their representatives. Poor people have no say. It may be considered undemocratic but we must see the facts mentioned in the report. In the Indian democracy we can see easily that common man cannot contest election at his own expenses. The grass root poor people are working day and night for their livelihood. They have to fight with hunger not the government or any of its policy.

SOME OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS FOR EXAMINATION

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS

Q. 1. Which party always won elections in Mexico since its independence in 1930 until 2000?

(a) Revolutionary Party.

(b) Mexican Revolutionary Party.

(c) Institutional Revolutionary Party. 

(d) Institutional Party.

Ans. (c) Institutional Revolutionary Party. 

Q. 2. When did Zimbabwe attain independence and from whom?

(a) 1970, from Black minority rule.

(b) 1880, from White minority rule.

(c) 1980, from Americans.

(d) 1980, from White minority rule.

Ans. (d) 1980, from White minority rule 

Q. 3. Which of these features is/are necessary to provide the basic rights to the citizens?

(a) Citizens should be free to think. 

(b) should be free to form associations.

(c) Should be free to raise protest. 

(d) All the above.

Ans. (d) All the above.

Q. 4. Some of the drawbacks of democracy is:

(a) instability and delays. 

(b) corruption and hypocrisy.

(c) politicians fighting among themselves.

(d) all the above. 

Ans. (d) all the above.

Q. 5. Democracy improves the quality of decision-making because: 

(a) decisions are taken by educated people.

(b) decisions are taken by consultation and discussion. 

(c) decisions are taken over a long period of time.

(d) all decisions are approved by judiciary.

Ans. (b) decisions are taken by consultation and discussion.

Q. 6. The most common form that democracy takes in our time is that of:

(a) limited democracy.

(b) representative democracy. 

(c) maximum democracy.

(d) none of the above.

Ans. (b) representative democracy. 

Q. 7. _________ is a form of government in which the rulers are elected by the people?

(a) Dictatorship.

(b) Non Democratic Government.

(c) Monarchy. 

(d) Democracy.

Ans. (d) Democracy. 

Q. 8. How does the definition of democracy help us?

(a) To separate democracy from forms of government that is clearly not democratic. 

(b) So that we can get voting rights.

(c) To figure out what lies in A Democracy. 

(d) None of the above.

Ans. (a) To separate democracy from forms of government that is clearly not democratic. 

Q. 9. How were the rulers of Myanmar elected?

(a) Dictatorship. 

(b) By the people.

(c) Those who happened to be in control of the army became the rulers.

(d) Monarchy.

Ans. (c) Those who happened to be in control of the army became the rulers. 

Q. 10. How are the rulers of Saudi Arabia elected?

(a) By the people. 

(b) Rule of the army.

(c) Those who happen to be born into the royal family. 

(d) None of the above. 

Ans. (c) Those who happen to be born into the royal family.

Q. 11. Which officials must be elected for any government to be called a democracy? 

(a) Certain people from different constituencies passing the criteria to be elected.

(b) Any adult of the country. 

(c) Only bureaucratics.

(d) Heads of different organizations. 

Ans. (a) Certain people from different constituencies passing the criteria to be elected. 

Q. 12. He overthrew a democratically elected government and declared himself the ‘Chief Executive’ of the country. Later he changed his designation to President and in 2002. Which President of Pakistan was this?

(a) General Pervez Musharraf. 

(b) Muhammad Zia-ul-Ha.

(c) Farooq Leghari.

(d) Muhammad Mian Soomro.

Ans. (a) General Pervez Musharraf.

Q. 13. In a democracy the final decision making power must rest with _________.

(a) the official heads. 

(b) the monarchs.

(c) those elected by the people.

(d) none.

Ans. (c) those elected by the people.

Q. 14. What is the Chinese Parliament called?

(a) National People’s Congress.

(b) Chinese Communist Party.

(c) The Communist Party of China.

(d) People’s Congress. 

Ans. (b) Chinese Communist Party. 

Q. 15. Which country has never been under a military or dictator’s rule? 

(a) Cuba. 

(b) Mexico.

(c) India.

(d) Nepal. 

Ans. (b) Mexico.

Q. 16. Estonia has made its citizenship rules in such a way that people belonging to Russian minority find it difficult to get ___________.

(a) the economic rights.

(b) the right to vote. 

(c) right to women’s vote.

(d) all of the above.

Ans. (b) the right to vote.

Q. 17. Zimbabwe’s leader, Robert Mugabe, ruled the country since independence. 

(a) Robert Mugabe.

(b) John Beten.

(c) Bean Achebe. 

(d) Guten Zugab.

Ans. (a) Robert Mugabe.

Q. 18. What kind of oppression did Mugabe give his people?

(a) Opposition party workers were harassed and their meeting disrupted.

(b) Public protests and demonstrations against the government were declared illegal. 

(c) There was a law that limited the right to criticize the President.

(d) All of the above. 

Ans. (d) All of the above.

Q. 19. What requirements do the people of the state need before elections?

(a) They should be free to think.

(b) To have opinions.

(c) To form associations.

(d) All of the above. 

Ans. (d) All of the above.

Q. 20. What requirements do the people of the state need after elections?

(a) Every office bearer has certain rights and responsibilities assigned by the constitution and the law. 

(b) To respect some guarantees to the minorities.

(c) Each of these is accountable not only to the people but also to other independent officials.

(d) All of the above. 

Ans. (d) All of the above.

Q. 21. Which is true of democracy?

(a) By the people for the people. 

(b) Leaders keep changing in a democracy. This leads to instability.

(c) Democracy is all about political competition and power play. 

(d) Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people.

Ans. (a) By the people for the people. 

Q. 22. Democracy is based on _________.

(a) discussions and meetings are amongst few.

(b) discussions and meetings occur when a number of people put their heads together. 

(c) no discussions.

(d) unruly crowded meetings with no formal decision.

Ans. (b) discussions and meetings occur when a number of people put their heads together. 

Q. 23. Democracy is better than other forms of government because:

(a) it allows change. 

(b) allows voting.

(c) allows right to opinion.

(d) it allows us to correct its own mistakes. 

Ans. (d) it allows us to correct its own mistakes. 

Q. 24. In the question given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and chose the correct option.

Assertion (A): Every democracy has to try to realize the ideals of a democratic decision making.

Reason (R): Every country is a perfect democracy.

Options:

(a) (A) is correct but (R) is wrong. 

(b) (A) is wrong but (R) is correct.

(c) Both (A) and (R) are wrong.

(d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Ans. (a) (A) is correct but (R) is wrong.

Q. 25. In the question given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and chose the correct option.

Assertion (A): Modern democracies involve such a large number of people that it is physically impossible for them to sit together and take a collective decision.

Reason (R): Even if they could, the citizen does not have the time, the desire or the skills to take part in all the decisions.

Options:

(a) (A) is wrong but (R) is correct. 

(b) (A) is correct but (R) is wrong.

(c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). 

(d) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

Ans. (c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Q. 26. In the question given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and chose the correct option.

Assertion (A): A minority is allowed to take decisions on behalf of all the people. 

Reason (R): The majority of people rule through their elected representatives. 

Options:

(a) (A) is correct but (R) is wrong.

(b) (A) is wrong but (R) is correct. 

(c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). 

(d) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A). 

Ans. (b) (A) is wrong but (R) is correct.

Q. 27. In the question given below, there are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Read the statements and chose the correct option.

Assertion (A): In a democracy, people are the subjects of a ruler.

Reason (R): Those in power have the right to remain in power.

Options:

(a) (A) is correct but (R) is wrong.

(b) Both (A) and (R) are wrong. 

(c) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

(d) Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).

Ans. (b) Both (A) and (R) are wrong.

Fill in the Blanks:

(i) Democracy treats all persons as _________.

Ans. equal.

(ii) All the citizens of the country have right to _________.

Ans. vote.

(iii) Zimbabwe became an independent nation in __________. 

Ans. 1980.

(iv) There should be no __________ on the basis of caste, creed, color of religion.

Ans. discrimination.

(v) Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and __________.

Ans. conflicts.

True and False:

(i) Democracy makes government more responsive.

Ans. True.

(ii) People’s decision is the basis of a good democratic government.

Ans. False.

(iii) In any society people are bound to have differences of opinions and interests.

Ans. True.

(iv) Universal adult franchise is the right of all adults to vote in political elections.

Ans. True.

(v) Democracy depends on the whims of the ruler or the dictator.

Ans. False.

VERY SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS 

Q. 1. Give one common feature of democratic governments.

Ans. One common feature is that people elect their representatives on the basis of Universal Adult Franchise.

Q. 2. What is a referendum?

Ans. A referendum is a direct vote in which the entire electorate is asked to either accept or reject a particular proposal. It may be adoption of a new constitution, a law or a specific governmental policy.

Q. 3. The kings of Nepal and Saudi Arabia are ruling even than they are undemocratic. Why? 

Ans. It is because they happened to be born into the royal families.

Q. 4. How did Pervez Musharraf declare himself the ‘Chief Executive’ of the country? 

Ans. In October 1999, he led a military coup to overthrow a democratically-elected government and declared himself the ‘Chief Executive’ of the country.

Q. 5. What do you mean by ‘Legal Framework Order’?

Ans. It was an order issued by General Musharraf empowering him to dismiss the national or provincial assemblies.

Q. 6. Which body supervised the civilian cabinet according to Legal Framework Order?

Ans. The National Security Council dominated by military officials supervised the civilian cabinet.

Q. 7. What happened after the passage of the Legal Framework Order?

Ans. After the passage of the Legal Framework Order, elections were held to the national and state assemblies. The representatives were elected by the people.

Q. 8. Why is Pakistan not considered a democratic country even after having elections?

Ans. Despite elections to the national and provincial assemblies, the final powers rested with General Musharraf and military officers.

Q. 9. What was PRI?

Ans. It was a political party of Mexico called Institutional Revolutionary Party. 

Q. 10. Why was every election won by PRI in Mexico?

Ans. PRI managed to win every election mainly through unfair means. They spent a lot of money in campaigning for its candidates and forced people to vote for them.

Q. 11. How can we say that people in Mexico did not have any choice in the elections?

Ans. These was no choice for people in Mexico. There was no way PRI could be defeated, even if the people were against it. The elections were not fair.

Q. 12. In which country women do not have the right to vote until 2015?

Ans. Until 2015, women do not have the right to vote in Saudi Arabia.

Q. 13. Which party of Zimbabwe led the struggle for independence? 

Ans. The ZANU-PF in Zimbabwe led the struggle for independence. 

Q. 14. How can you say that media is not independent in Zimbabwe? 

Ans. Television and radio are controlled by the government and give only the ruling party’s version. The government also harasses those journalists who go against it.

Q. 15. What do you derive from a democratic government like the one in Zimbabwe? 

Ans. Popular governments can be undemocratic and popular leaders can be autocratic.

Q. 16. Which factors, barring at the elections must be considered to assess democracy? 

Ans. To keep a vigilant eye before and after the election is also required to assess democracy. 

Q. 17. What basic rights were given by state to citizens to ensure democracy before elections?

Ans. The state should respect the basic rights of the citizens which include freedom to think, to have opinions, to express these in public, to form associations, to protest and take other political actions.

Q. 18. Point out one negative feature of democracy. 

Ans. Leaders keep changing in a democracy. This leads to instability.

Q. 19. In which condition does democracy lead to bad decisions?

Ans. When elected leaders are unaware of the best interests of the people, it leads to bad decisions. 

Q. 20. List the cause for delay in decision-making.

Ans. Involving many people in the decision-making and taking their consent lead to delay in decision-making in democracy.

Q. 21. Mention the advantage of involving many persons in decision-making. 

Ans. The advantage is that everyone is consulted that reduces the chances of rash or irresponsible decisions.

Q. 22. What is the basic sense behind taking a decision in democracy?

Ans. In a democracy decision-making involves consultations and the consent of all those who are affected by that decision.

Q. 23. A democracy enhances the dignity of citizens. How?

Ans. Democracy provides political equality to all recognising that the poor, the rich, the least educated have the same status as the rich and the educated. 

Q. 24. How does democracy allow us to correct our mistakes?

Ans. In a democracy there is room for public discussions on government’s rules or mistakes and there is room for correction. Either the rulers have to change their decisions or the rulers can be changed.

Q. 25. What is a representative democracy? 

Ans. It is a form of democracy where the majority of people rule through their elected representatives.

Q. 26. Why is the representative democracy considered the most common form of democracy?

Ans. A large number of people in democracies can’t sit together and take decisions collectively, so representative democracy is the most common in practice.

Q. 27. What is direct democracy? 

Ans. Direct democracy is also known as pure democracy. It is one in which entire people decide e.g., vote form consensus on policy initiative directly, e.g., Switzerland.

Q. 28. Which forms of governments do not require all citizens to take part in politics? 

Ans. Governments like monarchy, dictatorships and one-party rule do not require all citizens to take part in politics. 

Q. 29. Mention the constraints of citizens if they have an option to take part in decision-making.

Ans. A citizen does not have time, desire or skills to take part in decision-making.

SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS 

Q. 1. Why is democracy is considered best form of government? 

Ans. 1. Democracy is better than any other form of government in responding to the needs of the people. A non-democratic government can respond to the people’s needs, but it all depends on the wishes of the people who rule. 

2. If the rulers don’t want to, they don’t have to act according to the wishes of the people.

3. A democracy requires that the rulers have to attend to the needs of the people. A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government.

Q. 2. What are the three merits of democracy? 

Ans. Three merits of democracy are as Follows:

1. Democracy assures equality: The democratic form of government stands for equality both in the economic and political fields. It assures the right to vote, the right to contest elections and the right to hold public office without any discrimination on the basis of caste, colour, creed or sex. It repudiates special privileges. In the economic field it ensures equality of opportunity and economic security to the masses.

2. It upholds individual liberties: Democracy is the only form of government which upholds individuals liberties and guarantees their rights through constitutional safeguards. Mill defends democracy on these basis. The freedom of speech, expression, press and association are some of the important civil rights assured to the people.

3. Willing obedience of laws: There is very little possibility on the part of the people of breaking or violating the laws of the state. In monarchical and aristocratic types of government laws are not framed on the will of people. Their force is needed for rendering obedience to laws. But in democracy, the people themselves make laws and they cannot afford to break the laws themselves.

Q. 3. Explain one way by which the following can be considered democratic:

(a) Family. 

(b) Classroom.

(c) School.

(d) Society.

(e) Office.

Ans. The following can be considered democratic when:

(a) Every member is a family feel free to express his opinion before the others.

(b) The classroom creator suitable environment for all the students who belong to the different castes and religion.

(c) The school follows some secular Principle and does not allow anti, democratic thought to develop in the promises of school. 

(d) When the final decision is taken in consultation with the senior people. And their views are supported by all.

(e) When the staff do not make any difference in view of the caste and religion is their behavior.

Q. 4. In order to remain in power, the ruling party of a democratic nation should exhibit which three qualities? 

Ans. The ruling party of a democratic nation should exhibit the following qualities to remain in power. 

(i) The ruling party should try to ensure that final decision making power must rest with those representatives who are elected by the people.

(ii) The elections should be based on a free and fair elections. If gives those currently in power a fair chance of losing. The ruling party should try in this direction.

(iii) In a democracy, the ruling party should respect the value of each vote.

Q. 5. What do you understand by representative democracy? Why is it a more practised form in today’s world?

Ans. Representative democracy is the most common form of democracy in the present world. In this form of governance, people elect this representatives to make rule for the country.

A more practiced form because

1. Democracy is better than any other form of government in responding to the needs of the people. A non-democratic government can respond to the people’s needs, but it all depends on the wishes of the people who rule.

2. If the rulers don’t want to, they don’t have to act according to the wishes of the people.

3. A democracy requires that the rulers have to attend to the needs of the people. A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government. 

Q. 6. Which are the reasons or arguments given against democracy.

Ans. 1. Army is the most disciplined and corruption free organization in the country Therefore army should rule the country.

2. The rule of majority means the rule of ignorant people. What we need is the rule of the wise even if they are in small numbers.

3. If we want religious leaders to guide us in spiritual matters why not invites them to guide in politics as well. The country should be ruled by religious leaders.

Q. 7. Explain how the economic and social equality is the basis for success of democracy.

Ans. Economic equality: Economic equality means that there is no discrimination on the basis of economic status of a person. Efforts are made to bridge the gap between rich and poor in democracy. At least minimum needs and requirement of every citizen should be fulfilled. There should be no economic exploitation.

Social equality: There should be no discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, color or religion. Equal opportunities should be available to all.

In a democratic system all people should have right of good governance only due to social and economic equality. People participate equally in political processes. 

Therefore, social and economic equality is necessary for the success of a democracy. 

Q. 8. Explain the meaning of democracy. Write any two characteristics of ancient democracy.

Ans. I. Meaning of Democracy: The word democracy consists of two Greek words “Demos and Cratia”, where demos means people and croatia means power. Thus democracy means the government by the people. American President, Abraham Lincoln has rightly described ‘democracy as government of the people, for the people and by the people.’ Such a government works for the welfare of the people.

In democracy citizens feel that they have a part in power.

II. Characteristics of ancient democracy: 

(i) In ancient period, direct democracy was practiced because there were small states which had small populations. 

(ii) This democracy was not based on equality. Only few rich people were allowed to vote. 

Q. 9. How far it is correct that popular government’s can be undemocratic?

Ans. 1. If we wish to assess a democracy, it is important to look at the elections. But it is equally important to look before and after the elections. 

2. There should be sufficient room for normal political activity, including political opposition, in the period before elections. 

3. This requires that the state should respect some basic rights of the citizen. They should be free to think, to have opinions, to express these in public, to form associations, to protest and take other political actions. Everyone should be equal in the eyes of law. 

4. These rights must be protected by an independent judiciary whose orders are obeyed by everyone. 

Q. 10. Why a democratic government cannot do whatever it likes?

Ans. 1. A democratic government cannot do whatever it likes, simply because it has won an election. It has to respect some basic rules. In particular it has to respect some guarantees to the minorities. 

2. Every major decision has to go through a series of consultations. Every office bearer has certain rights and responsibilities assigned by the constitution and the law. 

3. Each of these is accountable not only to the people but also to other independent officials.

LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

Q. 1. Explain the main features of democracy.

Ans. The main features of democracy are as under:

1. Election: In democracy, elections are held regularly on the basis of universal adult franchise. These elections offer a fair opportunity to the people to change their present rulers or government if they desire so.

2. Administrative control of the peoples’ representatives: In a democracy, rulers elected by the people take all the main administrative and policy related decisions and there is none above them to guide or direct them.

3. Equality: In a democracy all the people without any distinction of caste, creed, colour or sex are given the choice and opportunity on an equal basis.

4. Rule of the Constitution or Law: In a democracy the exercise of choice of electing their rulers leads to a government limited by the rules of the constitution and citizens right.

Q. 2. How can you say that democracy is better than other forms of government?

Or

“Democracy is better than other government.” Give any four reasons in support of this statement.

Ans. 1. The advantage in a democracy is that such mistakes cannot be hidden for long. There is a space for public discussion on these mistakes. And there is a room for correction. Either the rulers have to change their decisions, or the rulers can be changed. This cannot happen in a non-democratic government.

2. Democracy cannot get us everything and is not the solution to all problems. But it is clearly better than any other alternative that we know. 

3. It offers better chances of a good decision, it is likely to respect people’s own wishes and allows different kinds of people to live together.

4. Even when it falls to do some of these things, it allows a way of correcting its mistakes and offers more dignity to all citizens. That is why democracy is considered the best form of government.

Q. 3. “Rulers and the ruled, both are responsible for making of an ideal democracy.” Justify by giving suitable reasons.

Ans. The Rulers and the ruled are responsible for making of an ideal democracy in the following way:

(a) A democracy requires that the rulers have to attend to the needs of the people. A democratic government is a better government because it is a more accountable form of government.

(b) Democracy improves the quality of decision making. Democracy is based on consultation and discussion. Any decision is taken after discussion, which reduces the possibility of taking rash and irresponsible decisions.

(c) Democracy provides a method to deal with differences and conflicts. Only in a democracy the different groups live with one another peacefully diverse country, Democracy keeps the diverse country together.

(d) The strongest argument for democracy is that it enhances the dignity of citizens. ln democracy the poorest and the least educated has the same status as the rich and the educated In Fact, democracy is based on the principles of political equality.

(e) Democracy allows us to correct our own mistakes. There is a space for public discussion on the mistakes and there is a room for correction. In democracy either the rulers have to change their decisions or the ruled will change them.

Q. 4. Why do we prefer democracy than any other form of the government?

Ans. Democracy is preferred than any other form of the government due to following reasons:

1. Democracy is better than any other form of government because it represents to the needs of the people. It does not depend on the whims of the ruler or the dictator. Democracy is an accountable form of government.

2. Democracy is based on consultation and discussion as such many mistakes are corrected in time. Democracy improves the quality of decision making.

3. Democracy gives peaceful solution to every problem. It provides the best method of dealing with differences and conflicts. It suits the needs of several nations like India with diversities of cultures, languages, literature, castes, creeds, etc.. Discussions lead to solution of each and every problem. Therefore, it helps in maintaining the unity.

4. Democracy is based on equality, freedom and it supports fraternity. Democracy enhances the dignity of every citizen.

Q. 5. If there was no democracy in India then what could have been its system of governance?

Ans. (i) In the absence of democracy, there would have been any other form of governance. 

(ii) There could have been monarchy. 

(iii) The monarchical system of governance existed in the medieval period.

(iv) In the ancient period both Monarchy and Republic existed in India. 

(v) India could also experience monocracy or dictatorship.

Q. 6. What are the hindrances in the smooth functioning of democracy in India?

Ans. Democracy has been adopted in India and every effort has been made to strengthen it. In the preamble, India is declared “A Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic, Republic.” In the preamble it is mentioned that the aim of the Constitution is to provide social, economic and political justice to all the citizens. Adult franchise is introduced in India. It has been tried in the Constitution to establish a system of ideal democracy in principle. But in practice Indian democracy is suffering from various social and economic evils which have proved a curse.

Major hindrances in the smooth functioning of democracy in India are as under:

1. Social and Economic Inequalities: To make democracy a success, social and economic equalities are essential. But in India, they do not exist even after 50 years of independence.

2. Communalism and Casteism: In India there prevails the communal disharmony. The casteism is also prevalent in the Indian society. These two are proving big hindrances or obstacles in the successful working of democracy in India.

HOTS QUESTION

Q. 1. Discuss the position of democracy in Saudi Arabia and modern Iraq.

Ans. Position of democracy in Saudi Arabia: According to scholars Saudi Arabia is not a democratic country in the true spirit. The ruler or the king of this country is all in all. He is not elected by the people of the country.

In Saudi Arabia women do not have rights to vote.

Present Iraq is also not a democratic country. No doubt the representatives in Iraq have been elected by the people but they (representatives) or not free to act as they like. They get everything endorsed by the United States.

Q. 2. Why do we prefer democracy than any other form of government?

Ans. Democracy is prefer than any other firm (Monarchy, Dictatorship, Military rule etc.) of the government due to following reasons:

(i) Democracy represents the desire, aspiration and feeling of the majority of the people. It does not depend on whim of ruler or the dictator. In simple words we can say that democracy of the people, by the people (or run by people representatives) and tries to care for public.

(i) Democracy believes in methods of discussion, consultation and persuasion. It improves the quality of decision making.

(ii) Democracy provides peaceful solutions of every problem. It tries to solve differences and conflicts in best ways.

(iii) Democracy is based on equality which ensured equal rights both for men and women, rich and poor, educated and uneducated people living in rural areas and urban areas.

(iv) Democracy gives importance to press or media and international institutions such as UN, World Bank and IMF. It is always worried in favor of expansion and protection of human rights and protection of earth and environment.

PASSAGE BASED QUESTIONS

1. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow:

Since its independence in 1930, Mexico holds elections after every six years to elect its President. The country has never been under a military or dictator’s rule. But until 2000 every election was won by a party called PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party). Opposition parties did contest sections, but never managed to win. The PRI was known to use many dirty tricks to win elections.

(i) What conclusion can your draw from the situation of Mexico mentioned in the paragraph above?

(a) People seemed to have no interest in politics.

(b) People seemed to really have a choice but in practice they had no choice.

(c) The constitution of Mexico limit people’s participation in politics.

(d) People are comfortable with one-party rule. 

Ans. (b) People seemed to really have a choice but in practice they had no choice.

(ii) A democratic country must be based on:

(a) strong military power.

(b) strong leader of a political party.

(c) the funds given to the government by the influential people.

(d) free and fair election where those currently in power have a fair chance of losing.

Ans. (d) free and fair election where those currently in power have a fair chance of losing.

(iii) In China too, the elections do not offer the people any serious choice. They have to choose the:

(a) leader of the opposition party.

(b) candidate who can provide better policies for them. 

(c) ruling party and the candidates approved by it.

(d) military leader for framing the government. 

Ans. (c) ruling party and the candidates approved by it.

(iv) Which of the following feature of election is unique to China?

(a) Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the Chinese Communist Party.

(b) Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the people.

(c) Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the judiciary.

(d) Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the military.

Ans. (a) Before contesting elections, a candidate needs the approval of the Chinese Communist Party. 

2. Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow:

Democracy is not a magical solution for all the problems. It has not ended poverty in our country and in other parts of the world. Democracy as a form of government only ensures that people take their own decisions. This does not guarantee that their decisions will be good. People can make mistakes. Involving the people in these decisions does lead to delays in decision making. It is also true that democracy leads to frequent changes in leadership. Sometimes this can set back big decisions and affect the government’s efficiency.

(i) For many, democracy is all about: 

(a) welfare and well being of the citizens. 

(b) political competition and power play. 

(c) development of the nation.

(d) morality.

Ans. (b) political competition and power play.

(ii) In a democracy, what leads to bad decisions?

(a) Improper representation. 

(b) So many are to be consulted.

(c) Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people.

(d) People’s choices have to be taken in consideration.

Ans. (c) Elected leaders do not know the best interest of the people.

(iii) In a democracy, what causes instability?

(a) Frequent elections.

(b) Methods to deal with differences.

(c) People’s participation.

(d) The leaders keep on changing.

Ans. (d) The leaders keep on changing.

(iv) Democracy is better than any other form of government in:

(a) accumulating wealth and power.

(b) responding to the needs of the people. 

(c) responding to the needs of the groups in majority.

(d) leading into conflicts.

Ans. (b) responding to the needs of the people.

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Chapter 2 Constitutional Design

Exercises

1. Here are some false statements. Identify the mistake in each case and rewrite these correctly based on what you have read in this chapter.

(a) Leaders of the freedom movement had an open mind about whether the country should be democratic or not after independence.

(b) Members of the Constituent Assembly of India held the same views on all provisions of the Constitution.

(c) A country that has a constitution must be a democracy.

(d) Constitution cannot be amended because it is the supreme law of a country 

Ans.

(a) Leaders of the freedom movement had a consensus should be a democratic nation after independence.

(b) Members of the Constituent Assembly of India held the same views on the basic principles of the constitution.

(c) A country that is a democracy must have a constitution.

(d) Constitution can be amended to keep up with the changes in aspirations of the society.

2. Which of these was the most salient underlying conflict in the making of a democratic constitution in South Africa?

(a) Between South Africa and its neighbours

(b) Between men and women

(c) Between the white majority and the black minority

(d) Between the coloured minority and the black majority

Ans.

(d) Between the coloured minority and the black majority

3. Which of these is a provision that a democratic constitution does not have?

(a) Powers of the head of the state

(b) Name of the head of the state

(c) Powers of the legislature

(d) Name of the country

Ans.

(b) Name of the head of the state

4. Match the following leaders with their roles in the making Constitution:

Solved 

Ans.

(a) Motilal......(iv) Prepared a Constitution for India in 1928

(b)Ambedkar........ii) Chairman of the Drafting Committee

(c) Rajendra Prasad.....(i) President of the Constituent Assembly

(d) Sarojini Naidu.........(i) President of the Constituent Assembly

5. Read again the extracts from Nehru's speech 'Tryst with Destiny' and answer the following:

(a) Why did Nehru use the expression "not wholly or in full measure the first sentence?

(b) What pledge did he want the makers of the Indian Constitution to take?

 (c) "The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every eye". Who was he referring to?

Ans.


(a) Nehru used the expression "not wholly or
foll measure" because according to him the task of building a nation is a gargantuan task which
cannot be fulfilled in one's lifetime.

(b) The pledge that he wanted the makers of the Indian Constitution to take was to dedicate their lives to the service of India, the Indian people and the humanity at large

(c) He was referring to Mahatma Gandhi.

6. Here are some of the guiding values of the Constitution and their meaning. Rewrite them by matching them correctly.

(d) Secular (i) Government will not favour any religion.

(ii) People have the supreme right to make decisions.

(iii) Head of the state is an elected person.

(iv) People should live like brothers and sisters.

Ans.
(a) Sovereign
(b) Republic
(c) Fraternity
(d) Secular (ii) People have the supreme right to make decisions.
(iii) Head of the state is an elected person.
(iv) People should live like brothers and sisters.
(i) Government will not favor any religion.

7. A friend from Nepal has written you a letter describing the political exercises situation there. Many political parties are opposing the rule of the king. Some of them say that the existing constitution given by the monarch can be amended to allow more powers to elected representatives. Others are demanding a new Constituent Assembly to write a republican constitution. Reply to your friend giving your opinions on the subject.

Ans. In my opinion second option is best. Making small amendments does not shift whole power in the hands of representatives. This does not make
total responsibility on elected representatives what will happen in next years. So, a new and well drafted constitution is right choice.

8. Here are different opinions about what made India a democracy. How much importance would you give to each of these factors?
(a) Democracy in India is a gift of the British rulers. We received training to work with representative legislative institutions under the British rule.

(a) Democracy in India is a gift of the British we received training to work with representative legislative institutions under the British rule.

(b) Freedom struggle was important in spreading the idea of nationalism in India and inculcating the practice of making decisions by consensus.

(c) The leaders had the desire to give freedom to the people. India's freedom struggle is the only example of bloodless freedom struggle in the contemporary history. This could be possible because our nationalist leaders had the maturity to listen to others views 

9. Read the following extract others' views. from a conduct book for 'married women', published in 1912. 'God has made the female species delicate and fragile both physically and emotionally, pitiably incapable of self- defense. They are destined thus by God to remain in male protection - of father, husband and son- all their lives. Women should, therefore, not despair, but feel obliged that they can dedicate themselves to the service of men'. Do you think the values expressed in this para reflected the values underlying our constitution? Or does this go against the constitutional values?

Ans. The values expressed in this para is totally contradictory to the values underlying our constitution. Here, women are treated as weak while in our constitution men and women both are treated equal. The governmental policies also favor women to bring them in mainstream.

10. Read the following statements about a constitution. Give reasons why each of these is true or not true.

(a) The authority of the rules of the constitution is the same as that of any other law.

(b) Constitution lays down how different organs of the government will be formed.

(c) Rights of citizens and limits on the power of the down in the constitution.

(d) A constitution is about institutions, not about values 

Ans.

(a) Not True

Constitution is the supreme law. It describes how government elects and their powers, rights of citizens and their protection. This is totally different than any other law.

(b) True

Constitution defines the role of the legislature, the executive and the judiciary and how they should be formed and by whom.

(c) True

Constitutional setup limits the power of government through different institutions and also talks about the right of citizens.

(d) False 

The Constitution contains all the values which the institutions have to prómote. The Preamble to the Constitution is a shining example of this and states clearly that justice, liberty, equality and fraternity have to be promoted. Secularism has to be followed and socialism and democracy should be the basis of the government.

COMPREHENSIVE STUDY

Q 1. Write a short note on South African constitution?

Ans:-The supreme law of a country, containing fundamental rules governing the politics and society in a country. The South African constitution is one of the finest constitutions the world has ever had. This constitution gave to its citizens the most extensive rights available in any country. Earlier in Africa there was the official policy of racial separation. White people were dominant over blacks. But while preparing the constitution, they decided that in the search for a solution to the problems nobody should be excluded no one should be treated as a demon. The preamble of the South Africa constitution sums up this spirit.

The South African constitution inspises democrats all over the world speaking on the South African constitution, Mandela Said; The constitution of South Africa speaker of both the past and future. On the one hand. It is a solemn pact in which we, as South Africans declare to one another that we shall never permit a repetition of our racist, brutal the and repressive past. But is more than that; it is also a charter for the transformation of our country into one which is truly shared by all it is  people a country which in the fullest sense belongs to all of us, black and white women and men. These were the words of great personality, Nelson Mandela which described the South African constitution.

Q 2. Write a short note on the making of Indian constitution.

Ans:-Indians struggled very hard to gain the independence. Before independence, the constitution Assembly had started it as work of arming the constitution of India on December 4, 1946. But it seriously began its work after the independence of the country.

On 29th August 1947, the constituent appointed a drafting committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Ambedkar, one of the prominent intellectuals of the country. After a period of six months this committee prepared a Draft constitution of India by February, 1948. The constituent Assembly met in November 1948 to consider the provisions of the Drafting committee clause by clause different clause was completed by 17th October, 1949. Then began the third reading to give a final shape to the constitution which was adapted on November 26, 1949. It then received the signatures of the president and was declared as passed. Thus it took about 2 years, 11 months and 18 days to prepare the constitution of free India. But the constitution came force on January, 1950. So every this day is consider as Republic day

Q 3. Comment on the role of Dr. B.R Ambedkar in constitution.

Ans:-Dr.. B.R Ambedkar is popularly known as the chief architect of Indian constitution. His role to the making of the Indian constitution is certainly of the most significant level. On 15th August, 1947. When India achieved its independence Nehruji made Ambedkar as his first law minister. He was appointed also as the chairman of the constitution drafting committee. The text prepared by Ambedkar provided  constitutional guarantees and protections for a wide range of civil liberties for individual citizens, including freedom of religion, the abolition of untouchability and outlawing all forms of discrimination. He provided an inspiring preamble to the constitution ensuring justice, social, economic and political liberty, equality and fraternity. He used all his  experience and knowledge in drafting the constitution. He gave free India its legal framework and the people, the basis of their freedom. His contribution was significant, substantial and spectacular. His contribution to the evolution of free India lies in his striving for ensuring justice, social, economic and political for one and all. That is why he is called the chief architect of Indian constitution.

Q 4. What pledge did Jawaharlal Nehru in his "Tryst with Destiny speech" want the makers of the Indian constitution to take?

Ans. Jawaharlal Nehru's speech was inspirational speech, full of zeal and spirit. He said in his speech that freedom and power bring responsibility. The responsibility rests upon this assembly, a sovereign body representing the sovereign people of India. He said the past is over and it is the future that beckons to us now. He further added that future is not one of ease or rating but of incessant striving so that we may fulfill the pledges we have so often taken and the one we shall take, today. The service of India means the service of the millions who suffer means the ending of poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity. The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every eye. That may be beyond us, but as long as there are tears and suffering. So long our work will not be over.

Q 5. What does the word Republic in the preamble signify?

Ans. The word Republic in the preamble signifies that the head of the state is an elected person and not hereditary position.

Q 6. Why do we need a constitution?

Ans. We need a constitution because. He it specifies how the government will be constituted and who all have the power to take limits on the power of the govt. and guides it to respect the fundamental rights of the people. It aims it the creation of a good society etc.

Q 7. What are the guiding values of Indian constitution?

Ans. The guiding values of Indian constitution are embedded in the preamble of Indian constitution. The lays emphasis on the following ideals.

1. Justice Social, Economic and Political.

2. Liberty: Of thought, Expression, Belief, Faith and Worship.

3. Equality: - Of status and of opportunity and to promote among them all

4. Fraternity: - Assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity of the Nation.

Q 8. What is a constitutional Amendment?

Ans. The constitution of India is a very long and detailed document. Therefore, it needs to be amended quite regularly to keep it updated.
Those who drafted the Indian constitution. Felt that it has be in accordance with people's aspirations and changes in society. They did not
see it as a static and unalterable law. So, they made provisions incorporate changes from time to time. These changes are called constitutional amendment.

Q 9. Name the state of Indian Union. Which has its own Constitution?    NOT AFTER 5AUGUST 2019

Ans:-Jammu and Kashmir, the state of Indian Constitution. not after 5 August 2019

Q 10. When was the preamble to the constitution of India amended?

Ans:-The Preamble to the Constitution of India was amended only once through 42d constitution. Amendment Act

Q 11. What are the words inserted in India?

Ans:-The words inserted in the preamble to the constitution of India were secular, Socialist and Integrity

Q 12. What is the importance 26 January in India 

Ans. The Constitution came in to effect on 26th January 1950 we celebrate 26 th January every year as Republic Day.

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Chapter 3 Electoral Politics

Question 1: Which of the following statements about the reasons for conducting elections are false?
(a) Elections enable people to judge the performance of the government.
(b) People select the representative of their choice in an election.
(c) Elections enable people to evaluate the performance of the judiciary.
(d) People can indicate which policies they prefer.

Answer: Statement ‘c’ is false.

Question 2: Which of these is not a good reason to say that Indian elections are democratic?
(a) India has the largest number of voters in the world.
(b) India’s Election Commission is very powerful.
(c) In India, everyone above the age of 18 has a right to vote.
(d) In India, the losing parties accept the electoral verdict.

Answer: Statement ‘a’ is not a good reason to say that Indian elections are democratic.

Question 3: Match the following:

(a) It is necessary to keep the voters list up to date because	(i) there is a fair representation of all sections of our society
(b) Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that	(ii) everyone has equal opportunity to elect their representatives
(c) Everyone has one and only one vote so that	(iii) all candidates must have a fair chance of competing in elections
(d) Party in power is not allowed to use government vehicles because	(iv) some people may have moved away from the area where they voted last

Answer:

(a) It is necessary to keep the voters list up to date because	(iv) some people may have moved away from the area where they voted last
(b) Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that	(i) there is a fair representation of all sections of our society
(c) Everyone has one and only one vote so that	(ii) everyone has equal opportunity to elect their representatives
(d) Party in power is not allowed to use government vehicles because	(iii) all candidates must have a fair chance of competing in elections

Question 4: List all the different election related activities mentioned in the chapter and arrange them in a time sequence, beginning with the first activity and ending with the last. Some of these activities are given below: releasing election manifestos; counting of votes; making of voters’ list; election campaign; declaration of election results; casting of votes; ordering of re-poll; announcing election schedule; filing nomination.

Answer: The following is a list of the different election-related activities arranged in a time sequence − Making of voters’ list, announcing election schedule, filing nomination, releasing election manifestoes, election campaign, casting of votes, ordering of re-poll, counting of votes, declaration of election results.

Question 5: Surekha is an officer in-charge of ensuring free and fair elections in an assembly constituency in a state. Describe what should she focus on for each of the following stages of election:
(a) Election campaign
(b) Polling day
(c) Counting day

Answer:
(a) Election campaign − For this, Surekha will have to focus on seeing that the candidates do not bribe or threaten the voters; appeal to them in the name of caste or religion; use government resources for election campaign, and spend more than 10 lakh rupees to fund their campaigns. In addition to this, she will have to see that places of worship are not used for election propaganda; that ministers do not use government vehicles for their campaign, and that they do not take major policy decisions after the elections are announced.
(b) Polling day − For this, Surekha will have to ensure that incidents of rigging and booth capturing do not take place.
(c) Counting day − For this, Surekha will have to see that the agents of all the candidates are present to ensure that counting is done properly.

Question 6: The table below gives the proportion of different communities among the candidates who won elections to the US Congress. Compare these to the proportion of these communities in the population of the US. Based on this, would you suggest a system of reservations in the US Congress? If yes, why and for which communities? If no, why not.
Portion of the community (in per cent) in the

	House of Representatives	Population of US
Blacks	8	13
Hispanics	5	13
Whites	86	70

Answer: Based on the table, a reservation for the Hispanic community is a good idea. This is to make their representation in proportion to the percentage of their population.

Question 7:
Can we draw the following conclusions from the information given in this chapter? Give two facts to support your position for each of these.
(a) Election Commission of India does not have enough powers to conduct free and fair elections in the country.
(b) There is a high level of popular participation in the elections in our country.
(c) It is very easy for the party in power to win an election.
(d) Many reforms are needed to make our elections completely free and fair.

Answer: (a) We cannot come to this conclusion. The Election Commission of India is powerful enough to conduct free and fair elections. It implements the code of conduct and punishes any candidate or party that violates it. While on election duty, government officials work under the EC and not the government.
(b) This is a correct conclusion. It is supported by the facts that voter turnout has increased over the past years. At the same time, election-related activities in the last few years have seen a larger participation by the people.
(c) This is an incorrect conclusion. The ruling parties routinely lose elections. Candidates who are known to spend a lot of money often lose elections.
(d) This is a correct conclusion. Reforms are needed because candidates and parties with a lot of money enjoy an unfair advantage. Also some candidates have criminal connections which they use to terrorise the voters and other candidates.

Question 8: Chinappa was convicted for torturing his wife for dowry. Satbir was held guilty of practicing untouchability. The court did not allow either of them to contest elections. Does this decision go against the principles of democratic elections?

Answer: This decision does not go against the principles of democratic elections as both Chinappa and Satbir are criminals, and hence, should be prevented from holding positions in the central or state assemblies.

Question 9: Here are some reports of electoral malpractices from different parts of the world. Is there anything that these countries can learn from India to improve their elections? What would you suggest in each case?
(a) During an election in Nigeria, the officer in charge of counting votes deliberately increased the votes of one candidate and declared him elected. The court later found out that more than five lakh votes cast for one candidate were counted in favour of another.
(b) Just before elections in Fiji, a pamphlet was distributed warning voters that a vote for former Prime Minisiter, Mahendra Chaudhry will lead to bloodshed. This was a threat to voters of India origin.
(c) In the US, each state has its own method of voting, its own procedure of counting and its own authority for conducting elections. Authorities in the state of Florida took many controversial decisions that favoured Mr. Bush in the presidential elections in 2000. But no one could change those decisions.

Answer:
(a) In this case, representatives of each candidate should be present to make sure that the votes are counted in a fair way.
(b) The election commission should set up an enquiry into the case and debar the candidate or party involved in distributing such pamphlets.
(c) There should be a single election commission which should be free from political influence and should be responsible for conducting elections throughout the country.

Question 10: Here are some reports of malpractices in Indian elections. Identify what the problem in each case is. What should be done to correct the situation?
(a) Following the announcement of elections, the minister promised to provide financial aid to reopen the closed sugar mill.
(b) Opposition parties alleged that their statements and campaign was not given due attention in Doordarshan and All India Radio.
(c) An inquiry by the Election Commission showed that electoral rolls of a state contain name of 20 lakh fake voters.
(d) The hoodlums of a political party were moving with guns, physically preventing supporters of other political parties to meet the voters and attacking meetings of other parties.

Answer:
(a) By promising financial aid to the sugar mill, the minister announced a policy decision. This is not right since policy decisions cannot be made after the elections are announced. The minister should not be allowed to contest the elections.
(b) By not giving the opposition party’s statements and campaign due attention in Doordarshan and All India Radio, the government gained an unfair advantage over the opposition. To counter this, the opposition should be given sufficient time on the national media.
(c) The presence of the fake voters means that the elections were rigged by the authorities who prepared the electoral rolls. The election commission should supervise preparation of fresh electoral rolls.
(d) By using hoodlums, the political party is terrorising its rivals. The election commission should order the arrest of the hoodlums and bar the party from the elections.

Question 11:
Ramesh was not in Class when this chapter was being taught. He came the next day and repeated what he had heard from his father. Can you tell Ramesh what is wrong with these statements?
(a) Women always vote the way men tell them to. So what is the point of giving them the right to vote?
(b) Party politics creates tension in society. Elections should be decided by consensus not by competition.
(c) Only graduates should be allowed to stand as candidates for elections.

Answer:
(a) The statement is wrong because the policy of secret ballot ensures that an individual can vote for whoever he/she wants. Women are fully capable of taking decisions on their own and selecting the candidate they like.
(b) It is true that party politics creates tension in the society, but it is wrong to say that elections should be decided by consensus. Competition in politics works out for the good of the people as politicians compete with each other in fulfilling their promises. They might not be honest, but they know that they need to work to be elected. Thus, even their selfish actions benefit the people.
(c) Educational qualification is not required to understand the people’s needs, and to represent their interests. Thus, it is not necessary for politicians to be graduates.

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Chapter 4 Working of Institutions

Question 1: If you are elected as the President of India which of the following decisions can you take on your own?
(a) Select the person you like as Prime Minister.
(b) Dismiss a Prime Minister who has a majority in Lok Sabha.
(c) Ask for reconsideration of a bill passed by both the Houses.
(d) Nominate the leaders of your choice to the Council of Ministers.

Answer: (c) Ask for reconsideration of a bill passed by both the houses.

Question 2: Who among the following is a part of the political executive?
(a) District Collector
(b) Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs
(c) Home Minister
(d) Director General of Police

Answer: (c) Home Minister

Question 3: Which of the following statements about the judiciary is false?
(a) Every law passed by the Parliament needs approval of the Supreme Court.
(b) Judiciary can strike down a law if it goes against the spirit of the Constitution.
(c) Judiciary is independent of the Executive.
(d) Any citizen can approach the courts if her rights are violated

Answer:
(a) Every law passed by the Parliament needs approval of the Supreme Court.

Question 4: Which of the following institutions can make changes to an existing law of the country?
(a) The Supreme Court
(b) The President
(c) The Prime Minister
(d) The Parliament

Answer: (d) The Parliament

Question 5: Match the ministry with the news that the ministry may have released:

(a) A new policy is being made to increase the jute exports from the country.	(i) Ministry of Defence
(b) Telephone services will be made more accessible to rural areas.	(ii) Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Public Distribution
(c) The price of rice and wheat sold under the Public Distribution System will go down	(iii) Ministry of Health
(d) A pulse polio campaign will be launched.	(iv) Ministry of Commerce and Industry
(e) The allowances of the soldiers posted on high altitudes will be increased.	(v) Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.

Answer:

(a) A new policy is being made to increase the jute exports from the country.	(iv) Ministry of Commerce and Industrye
(b) Telephone services will be made more accessible to rural areas.	(v) Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
(c) The price of rice and wheat sold under the Public Distribution System will go down	(ii) Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Public Distribution
(d) A pulse polio campaign will be launched.	(iii) Ministry of Health
(e) The allowances of the soldiers posted on high altitudes will be increased.	(i) Ministry of Defence

Question 6: Of all the institutions that we have studied in this chapter, name the one that exercises the powers on each of the following matters.
(a) Decision on allocation of money for developing infrastructure like roads, irrigation etc. and different welfare activities for the citizens.
(b) Considers the recommendation of a Committee on a law to regulate the stock exchange.
(c) Decides on a legal dispute between two state governments.
(d) Implements the decision to provide relief for the victims of an earthquake.

Answer:
(a) Lok Sabha (The Finance Ministry)
(b) The Parliament
(c) The Supreme Court
(d) The Executive

Question 7: Why is the Prime Minister in India not directly elected by the people? Choose the most appropriate answer and give reasons for your choice.
(a) In a Parliamentary democracy only the leader of the majority party in the Lok Sabha can become the Prime Minister.
(b) Lok Sabha can remove the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers even before the expiry of their term.
(c) Since the Prime Minister is appointed by the President there is no need for it.
(d) Direct election of the Prime Minister will involve lot of expenditure on election.

Answer: The most appropriate answer is ‘a’. This is to ensure that the Prime Minister secures a majority support. This prevents him/her from being either a puppet or a dictator since he/she has to function along with a council of ministers.

Question 8: Three friends went to watch a film that showed the hero becoming Chief Minister for a day and making big changes in the state. Imran said this is what the country needs. Rizwan said this kind of a personal rule without institutions is dangerous. Shankar said all this is a fantasy. No minister can do anything in one day. What would be your reaction to such a film?

Answer: Such a film is unrealistic and undemocratic. The Chief Minister should be appointed after a fair election process. At the same time a lot of planning is needed to carry out reforms.

Question 9: A teacher was making preparations for a mock parliament. She called two students to act as leaders of two political parties. She gave them an option: Each one could choose to have a majority either in the mock Lok Sabha or in the mock Rajya Sabha. If this choice was given to you. Which one would you choose and why?

Answer: Attempt this question on your own.

Question 10: After reading the example of the reservation order, three students had different reactions about the role of the judiciary. Which view, according to you, is a correct reading of the role of judiciary?
(a) Srinivas argues that since the Supreme Court agreed with the government, it is not independent.
(b) Anjaiah says that judiciary is independent because it could have given a verdict against the government order. The Supreme Court did direct the government to modify it.
(c) Vijaya thinks that the judiciary is neither independent nor conformist, but acts as a mediator between opposing parties. The court struck a good balance between those who supported and those who opposed the order.

Answer: The view which Anjaiah had is a correct reading of the role of the judiciary.

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