Class IX

Chapter-3

Electoral Politics

Q1.Why do we need Elections?

Ans. Elections are a must in a democratic country because of the following reasons :-

a)A rule of the people is possible without any elections if all the people can sit together every day and take all the decisions, but this is not possible in any large community.

b)Nor is it possible for everyone to have the time and knowledge to take decisions on all matters. Therefore in most democracies people rule through their representatives, who are elected through elections.

Q2.Why elections are considered essential in our times for any representative democracy?

Ans. Elections are considered  essential in our times for any representative  democracy because :-

a)They can choose who will make laws for them.

b)They can choose who will form the government and take major decisions.

c)They can choose the party whose policies will guide the government and law making.

Q3.What makes an election democratic?

Ans. a)First, everyone should be able to choose. This means that everyone should have one vote and every vote should have an equal value.

b)Second, there should be something to choose from. Parties and candidates should be free to contest elections and should offer some real choice to voters.

c)Third, to choice  should be afforded at regular intervals. Elections must be held regularly after few years.

d)Fourth, the candidate preferred by the people should get elected.    

e)Fifth, elections should be conducted in a free and fair manner when people can choose as they really wish.

Q4. Is it good to have political competition?

Ans. 1)Elections are all about political competition. This competition takes various forms, the most obvious form is the competition among political parties.

2)At the constituency  level it takes the forms of competition among several candidates.

3)sometimes, this competition turns into a personality race among the top leaders of various political parties.

4)Elections also led to various competition among various politics and ideologies.

Q5.what are the demerits of electoral competition?

Ans.(i)It creates a sense of disunity and factionalism in every locality.

(ii) Different political parties and leaders often level allegations against one another.

(iii)Parties and candidates often use dirty tricks to win elections.

(iv)The pressure to win electoral fights does not allow sensible long-term policies to be formulated.

(v)Some good people who may wish to serve the country do not enter this arena. They do not like the idea of being dragged into unhealthy competition.

Q6.What is general election?

Ans.Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha (Assembly) elections are held regularly after every 5 years. After five years, the term of all the representatives comes to an end. The Lok Sabha or Vidhan Sabha stands dissolved. Elections are held in all constituencies at the same time either on the same day or within a few days. This is called a General Elections.

Q7. Define electoral constituency.

Ans. In our country we follow an area based system of representation. The country is divided into different areas for purpose of elections. These areas are called electoral politics. The who lived in an area elects one representatives for Lok Sabha elections, the country is divided into 543 constituencies.

Q8.What do you mean by ’By Election’?

Ans.  Sometimes elections is held for one constituency to fill the vacancy caused by death or resignation of a member. This is called ‘By Election’ .

Q9.Define reserved constituency? Why did India introduce this system?

Ans. When a constituency is reserved for people who belong to the Scheduled Cast (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) only. Such a constituency is called Reserved constituency.

1)The constitution makers, were worried that in an open electoral competition, certain weaker sections may not stand a good chance to get elected to the Lok Sabha and the State Legislative Assemblies.

2)They may not have the required resources, education and contacts to contest and win elections against others.

3)Those who are influential and resourceful may prevent them from winning elections. If that happens, our parliament and assemblies would be deprived of the voice of significant section of our population.

4)In that case our democracy would be less representative and less democratic.

Q10.How many seats are reserved for SC and ST in Lok Sabha Currently?

Ans. Currently, in the Lok Sabha 84 seats are reserved for the Scheduled Cates and 41 for Scheduled Tribes. This number is in proportions to their share in the total population.

Q11.What proportions of seats are reserved for woman candidate?

Ans. One-third of the seats are reserved in rural and urban local bodies for women candidates.

Q12.What do you mean by electoral roll?

Ans. Once the constituencies are decided, the next step is to decide who can and who cannot vote. This decision cannot be left to anyone till the last day.  In a democratic election, the list those who eligible to vote is prepared much before the election and given to everyone .This list is officially called the Electoral Roll and commonly known as the Voter’s List.

Q13.What do mean by Universal Adult Franchise?

Ans. It means that everyone should have one vote and each vote should have equal value. No one shuld be denied the right to vote without a good reason.

Q14.Why is the principle of Universal Adult Franchise practised in democracy?

Ans.1) Different citizens have differ from one another in many ways : Some are rich, some are poor ; Some are highly educated, some are not so educated; some are kind, others are not so kind. But all of them are the human beings with their own needs and views.

2)Hence, the principle is applied so that everyone gets an equal opportunity to choose the representatives. All of them deserve to have an equal say in decisions that affect them.

Q15.Name the people who have the right to vote in India and the person be denied the right to vote.

Ans. In our country, Aged 18 years and above can vote in an election. Every citizen has the right to vote, regardless of his/her caste, religion or gender .Some criminals and persons with unsound mind can be denied the right to vote but only in rare situations.

Q16.What is EPIC?

Ans. 1)In the last few years a new section of Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC) has been introduced. The government has tried to give this card to every person on the voter’s list.

2)The voters are required to carry this card when they go out to vote, so that no one can vote for someone else.

3)But the card id not yet compulsory for voting. For voting, the voters can show many other proofs of identity like the ration card or the driving licence.

Q17.What is the new system of declaration introduced by the supreme country?

Ans. Every candidate have to make legal declaration, giving full details of:

·         Serious criminal cases pending against the candidate;

·         Details of assets and liabilities of the candidate and his/her family; and

·         Educational qualifications of the candidates.

This information has to be made public. This provides an opportunity to the voters to make their decision on the basis of the information provided by the candidates.

Q18. Write a short note on election campaign in our country.

Ans. 1)In our country such campaigns take place for a two-week period between the announcement of the final list of the candidates and the date of polling.

2)During these two weeks the candidates contact their voters, political leaders address election meetings and political parties mobilise their supporters.

3) This is also the period when the newspapers and television news are full of election related stories and debates.

4)But election campaign is not limited to these two weeks only. Political parties start preparing for elections month before they actually take place.

5)In election campaigns, political parties try to focus the public attention on some big issues. They want to attract the public to that issue and get them to vote for their party on that basis.

Q19.What restrictions have been imposed on parties or candidates, according to our election laws?

Ans. According to our election laws, no party or an candidate can:

1)Bribe or threaten voters;

2)Appeal to them in the name of caste or religion;

3)Use government resources for election campaign; and

4)Spend more than 25 lakhs in a constituency for Lok Sabha election or 10 lakh in a constituency in an assembly election.

Q20.What is the provisions of Model Code Conduct?

Ans. According to Model Code Conduct no party or candidate can:

1)Use any place for worship for election propaganda.

2)Use government vehicles, aircraft and officials for elections; and

3)Once elections are announced, ministers shall not lay foundations stones for any new projects, take any big policy decisions or make any promises of providing public facilities.

Q21.Most candidates are fielded from political parties? Why?

Ans. Most candidates fielded from political parties because party candidates enjoy certain advantages over independent candidates.

(i)When a candidates is fielded by political party, it is sure for the voters to know what they are voting for.

(ii)Morden elections are a complex issue. It needs a well-oiled machinery to manage and organise it. Individual cannot mobilise vast resources for such elections. Parties are in position to do this.

(iii)Electioneering  means campaigning in various forms as well as in different parts of constituency. An individual  can’t manage but a party can do so.

(iv)Political parties have heavy weight and dynamic leaders, who are mass pullers. Independent candidates have no such advantage.

(v)In a word, political parties enjoy all these, necessary resources and facilities to conduct elections. That is why every individual tries its best to get a ticket from political party.

Q22.”It is said that elections are barometer of democracy”. Explain.

Ans. Elections, indeed are the barometer of democracy because of the following reasons:-

1)It is through elections alone that voters express their opinion.

2)It is also through elections that the people’s representatives are identified.

3)Elections help in maintaining  a close watch and effective control over the executive.

Q23.Mention some of the unfair practices used in elections?

Ans. 1)Inclusion of false names and exclusion of genuine names in the voter’s list.

2)The use of government facilities and officials by ruling parties.

3)Excessive use of money by rich candidates and big parties; and

4)Intimation of voters  and rigging on the polling day.

Q24.What is Ballot Paper?

Ans. A ballot paper is a sheet of paper on which the names of the contesting along with party names and symbols are listed.

Q25.What is EVM?

Ans. It is an electronic voting machines which is used to record votes. The machine shows the names of the candidates and the party symbols.

All the voters has to do this to press the button against the name of the candidate he/she wants to give his/her vote.

Q26.”Very few election commission in the world have such wide-raging powers as the Election Commission of India”. Explain.

Ans.1)EC takes the decisions on every aspect of conduct and control of elections from the announcement of elections to the results .

2)It implements the code of conduct and punishes any candidate or party that violates it.

3)During election period, the EC can order the government to follow some guidelines, to prevent use and misuse of governmental power to enhance its chance to win elections, or to transfer some government officials.

4)When on election duty, government officers work under the control of the EC and not the government.

Q27.What does the outcome of India’s  elections speak for itself?

Ans.1)The ruling parties routinely lose elections in India both at the national and state level. In fact in every two out of three elections held in the lost fifteen years, the ruling party lost.

2)In US, an incumbent or ‘sitting’ elected representatives rarely loses an elections. In India about half of the sitting MPs or MLAs lose election.

3)Candidates who are known to have spent a lot of money on ‘buying votes and those with known criminal connection often elections.

4)Barring very few disputed elections, the electoral outcomes are usually accepted as ‘People’s  verdicts’ by the defeated party.

Q28.What are the various limitations and challenges of Indian Elections?

Ans. The various limitations and challenges of Indian elections are:

1)Elections and Parties with a lot of money may not be sure of their victory but they do enjoy a big and unfair advantages over smaller parties and independents.

2)In some parts of the country, candidates with criminal connection have been able to push others out of the electoral race and to secure a ‘ticket’ from major parties.

3)Some families tend to dominate political parties; tickets ae distributed to relatives from these families.

4)Very often elections offer little choice to ordinary citizens, for both the major parties are quite similar to each other both in policies and practise.

5)Smaller parties and independent candidates suffer a huge disadvantages compared to bigger parties.

CHAPTER-3 CONSTITUTIONAL DESIGN

CHAPTER 3:

CONSTITUTIONAL DESIGN

 CONCEPTS

 CONSTITUTION –A Constitution is a written document of rules, regulations and laws by which a countries government is run accordingly.

Do We Need a Constitution?

 Yes. A constitution has written laws accepted by people living together in a country.

 1.It generates trust and co-ordination.  

2.It specifies how a government should be constituted.

3. It lays down limits on the powers of the government.

4. It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

Making of the Indian Constitution

1.The process began during the national struggle for freedom.

2.First draft 1928, then 1931. Motilal Nehru and 8 leaders demanded in the draft:

universalAdult franchise, social justice, right to freedom and liberty.  

3.Participation in Provincial Legislatures helped Indians in framing their constitution.

 4.Leaders inspired by French Revolution, British parliamentary system and the Bill of

Rights of the US.

The Constituent Assembly  

1.Elections to the Constituent Assembly held in July 1946.

2.Dr. B.R. Ambedkar appointed chairman of the drafting committee.

 3.Constitution adopted on 26 November 1949, and enacted on 26 January, 1950,

when Indiabecame a Republic.  

4.The Constitution reflects the best minds of the country. Its members represented mini-India.Every law was debated clause by clause and a consensus arrived at.It is the longest written constitution.

PROBLEMS FACED WHILE MAKING INDIAN CONSTITUTION  

1. India was a huge and divers country and making of the constitution was not an easy affair.

2. The country was divided on the basis of religious differences.

3. The merger of Princely states was adifficult and uncertain task.

4. The future of the country was not much secure.

Significance of Preamble to the constitution

The Preamble provides the guidelines of the constitution and is considered to be the key of theconstitution.

WE, THE PEOPLE OF INDIA- *SOVEREIGN *SOCIALIST *SECULAR *DEMOCRATIC *REPUBLIC *JUSTICE *LIBERTY *EQALITY *FRATERNITY

MEMBERS OF CONSTITUENT ASSEMBLY

1. Vallabhbhai Patel   2 .Abul Kalam Azad  3. T.T. Krishnamachari  4.Rajendra Prasad  5.H. C. Mukherjee 6. Jaipal Singh 7.G. DurgabaiDeshmukh  8. Baldev Singh 9. K. M. Munshi   10.B. R. Ambedkar  11. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee 12. JawaharLalNehru  13. Sarojini Naidu  14.Somnath Lahiri.

Democratic Constitution in South Africa

1. Nelson Mandela, the South African leader of African National Congress, fought Against Apartheid.

2. Imprisoned for 28 years (1964–1992) emerged as the First President of the Republic of South Africa.

3. People struggled against the horrible discrimination practised against them by the Minority rulers.

4. Apartheid finally defeated in 1994 and a new constitution made in 1996.

5. Remarkable constitution, forgot past sufferings, sought co-operation of all the races which Make S. Africa based on equality, democratic values and social justice.

QUESTIONS/ANSWERS

Very short answer type Questions [1 MARK]

Q.1. On what charges was Nelson Mandela sentenced to life imprisonment?

Ans.For treason

 Q.2. What is apartheid?

Ans. Official policy of discrimination against the Blacks

Q.3. When did South Africa become a democratic country?

Ans. 26 April, 1994

Q.4. With the end of apartheid, who became the first President of South African Republic?

Ans. Nelson Mandela

Q.5. Name the autobiography of Nelson Mandela.

 Ans. The Long Walk to Freedom .

Q.6. what did the black population want in the new Constitution?

Ans. Substantial social and economic rights.

Q.7. What did the white minority want from the new Constitution?

Ans. Protect its privileges and property

Q.8. when did Motilal Nehru draft a Constitution for India?

Ans. 1928

Q.9. Where was the 1931 session of Indian National Congress held?

Ans. Karachi

 Q.10. “The ambition of the greatest man of our generation has been to wipe every tear from every eye.” Who was Nehru referring to in his speech?

Ans. Mahatma Gandhi

Q.11.The Constitution begins with a short statement of its basic values. What is it called?

Ans. Preamble Q.12. Who was the chairman of the Constituent Assembly?

Ans.Dr.Rajendra Prasad

Q.13.Which of the following days is celebrated to mark the enforcement of the constitution? Ans. Republic Day

Q.14.The Constituent Assembly met for how many days?

 Ans.114

Q15. Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Indian constitution?

 Ans.Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Q.16. When did the Indian constitution came into force?

Ans. 26th Jan, 1950

SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS [3 MARKS]

 Q.1. In which way was the system of ‘apartheid’ oppressive?

AnsThe apartheid system was particularly oppressive for the blacks. They were forbidden from living in white areas. They could work in white areas only if they had a permit. Trains, buses, taxis, hotels, hospitals, schools and colleges, swimming pools, public toilets etc. were all separate for the whites and blacks. They could not even visit the churches where the whites worshipped. Blacks could not form associations or protest against the terrible treatment.

Q.2 what was the appeal made by the black leaders to the fellow blacks after the emergence of the new democratic South Africa?

 Ans.After the emergence of the new democratic South Africa, black leaders appealed to fellow blacks to forgive the whites for the atrocities they had committed while in power. They urged the people to build a new South Africa based on equality of all races, and of men and women, on democratic values, social justice and human rights.

Q.3 What is meant by the term ‘Constitution’?

AnsThe constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are accepted by all people living in that country. It is the supreme law that determines the relationship among the people living in a territory (called citizens) and also the relationship between the people and government. It specifies how the government will be constituted and who will have the power to take different decisions.

Q.4. Describe the advantages that Indians had when they participated in the legislatures which were set up as a result of the elections of 1937.

 Ans.Although the legislatures set up in India as a result of elections of 1937 were not fully democratic, the experience gained by Indians in the working of the legislative institutions proved to be very useful for the country in setting up its own institutions and working in them.

 Q.5. Give a description of the composition of the Constituent Assembly.

Ans :The Constituent Assembly was elected mainly by the members of the existing Provincial Legislatures. This ensured a fair geographical share of members from all the regions of the country. Congress, which was the dominant party in the Assembly itself, included a variety of political groups and opinions. It represented members from different languages, castes, religions, classes and occupations.

Q.6.What did Ambedkar mean by ‘Contradiction’ in his concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly? Ans.In his concluding speech to the Constituent Assembly Dr.Ambedkar said that India was entering a life of ‘contradictions’ on 26th Jan 1950. By this he meant that in politics Indians would have equality but in social and economic life, there would be inequality. In politics India would be recognising the principle of one man one vote, with one value, but in social and economic life, the principle of one man one value would be denied.

Q.7. Why was a constitution necessary for a country like South Africa?

Ans.The oppressor and the oppressed, i.e. the whites and the blacks were planning to live together, as equals. It was not going to be easy for them to trust each other. They wanted to safeguard their interests. The only way to build and maintain trust was to write down some rules. This set of basic rules was the constitution needed for South Africa.

Q.8.What do you understand by secularism? Why India is called a secular country? Ans. India is a country of many religions and it respects all religions. No religion is given the status of state religion and equal respect is given to all beliefs, faiths and practices. Citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion. Q. 9 what are Constitutional Amendments? State its significance in a democratic country likeIndia.

Ans. Constitutional Amendments are changes in the constitution made by the Supreme Legislative body in a country. The constitution of India is a very long and detailed document. Therefore it needs to be amended quite regularly to keep it updated.

Q.10. what were the difficulties faced during the making of Indian constitution?

Ans. It was drawn up under very difficult circumstances. Making a constitution for a huge country like India was not an easy affair. The country was born through partition. The problem of princely states was left undecided by the Britrish. There were anxieties about the present and future of the country.

LONG ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS

Q.1. Regarding the constitution-making, what was the compromise reached at between the blacks and whites?

Ans.1-The constitution of South Africa was drawn together by the party of whites which had rules through oppression and the party that led the freedom struggle. 2-The constitution gave to its citizens the most extensive rights available in any country. After long negotiations both parties agreed to a compromise. 3-The whites agreed to the principle of majority rule and that of one person one vote. They also agreed to accept some basic rights for the poor and the workers. 4-The blacks agreed that the majority rule would not be absolute. They agreed that the majority would not take away the property of the white minority.

Q.2.What does the constitution effectively do that makes a country a democratic one?  Ans

A constitution does many things to make a country a democratic one: (i) It generates a degree of trust and coordination that is necessary for different kind of people to live together. (ii) It specifies how the government will be constituted and who will have the power of taking which decisions. (iii) It lays down limits on the powers of the government and tells us what the rights of the citizens are. (iv) It expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

Q3. In his speech ‘Tryst with Destiny’, Nehru said, ‘Freedom and power bring responsibility. ‘Explain what he meant by this.

Ans.1-By saying that ‘Freedom and power bring responsibility’, Nehru meant that it is the responsibility of Indians to not relax with ease after having got the freedom, but to constantly strive to fulfill the pledges taken .2- He said that the service of India meant the service of the millions who suffered, it meant the ambling of poverty and ignorance and disease and inequality of opportunity.

Q4. What is the preamble of the constitution? What is the significance of 'We the people ofIndia' and 'secular'in the preamble?

Ans.1-It is an introductory part of the constitution. It is called the key of the Constitution. "We the people of India" means the constitution has been drawn up and enacted by the people through their representatives. 2-Secular means that citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion. But there is no official religion.

Q5. Describe any three features of the Indian constitution.

Ans. (i) It establishes a Sovereign, Democratic, Republic in India (ii) It establishes a secular state in India (iii) It provides Fundamental Rights and Fundamental Duties. (i) The Constitution begins with a short statement called the preamble. Sovereign means people have supreme right to make decisions on internal as well as external matter. No external power can dictate the government of India. Democratic means a form of government where people enjoy equal political rights elect their rulers and hold them accountable. Republic means the head of the state is an elected person and it is not a hereditary position. (ii) Secular means citizens have complete freedom to follow any religion – Government treats all religions beliefs and practices with equal respect. (iii) The Indian constitution provides justice – social, economic and political. Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship. Equality of status and opportunity. Fraternity assuring dignity of the individual and unity and integrity of the nation.

Q.6.What is constitution? Why do we need a constitution? Ans.1-It is a set of written rules that are accepted by all the people of a country. 2- It is needed as it is the supreme law that determines the relationship among citizens of a country. 3-It defines how the government will be formed and also limits the powers of the government and defines the rights of the citizens.

Q.7’The Indian constitution is both rigid and flexible’. Explain? Ans.1-The Indian Constitution is neither wholly flexible nor wholly rigid. It is partly rigid and partly flexible. 2- It is not as flexible as the British constitution is, nor as rigid as the American constitution is. Some of the articles of the constitution can be amended by a simple majority of the parliament, e.g. changing the names of states, altering boundaries of states, matters relating to citizenship etc. 3- Some of the articles of the constitution can be amended with 2/3 majority of the members of parliament, e.g. the election of the president of India. 4- If any change in it is intended then it has to be passed first by a majority of the total members in each house of parliament.

Q.8. Mention the landmark years in the making of the Indian constitution. Ans.1-As far back as 1928, Motilal Nehru and eight other Congress leaders drafted a constitution forIndia. 2- In 1931 at the Karachi Session of Indian National Congress leaders pondered whatIndia's constitution should be like. Elections held in 1937 to provincial Legislatures and Ministers all over British India. 3- It was beneficial for Indians to gain experience. 4-That is why Indian Constitution adopted many institutional details from colonial laws like the Government of India Act 1935.

 Q.9.What is the aim of a socialist state? How can that be achieved?

Ans.1-We all us generated socially and should be shared equally by society. 2-Government should regulate the ownership of land and industry to reduce socioeconomic equalities. 3-Social inequalities have to be reduced; Government should work for the welfare of all.

Q.10What was the African Policy of Apartheid? How could that come to an end?

Ans. 1-Apartheid was the name of a system of racial discrimination unique to South Africa.

2-The White Europeans imposed this system on South Africa. The native people of Africa are black.

3- They had 3/4 of the population. The whites treated all non-whites as inferiors. The non-whites did not have voting rights.

4-The blacks were forbidden from living in the white area. Trains, buses, hospitals, schools, hotels, taxis, cinemas etc. were all separate for the whites and blacks. The blacks, coloured and Indians fought for their rights-arranged marches protests and strikes. 5-The racist government for tortured them. On 26 April, 1994 Apartheid came to an end with the birth of the Republic of South Africa.

HOTS

 Q.1 Why did the makers of the Indian constitution have anxieties about the present and the future of the country?

Ans.1-The makers of the Indian constitution had anxieties because making of the constitution for a huge and diverse country like India was not an easy affair. 2-The country was born through partition on the basis of religious differences. 3-At least ten lakh people were killed on both sides of the border in partition related violence. 4- Another problem was that the British had left it to the rulers of the princely states to decide whether they wanted to merge with India or with Pakistan or to remain independent. Q2. Describe how the Constituent Assembly worked to prepare the constitution for India.

Ans.The Constituent Assembly worked in a systematic, open and consensual manner. 1-some basic principles were decided and agreed upon. 2-Then a Drafting Committee chaired by Dr.B.R.Ambedkar prepared a draft constitution for discussion. 3-Several rounds of thorough discussion took place, clause by clause. More than 2000 amendments were made. 4-The members deliberated for 114 days spread over 3 years. Every document presented and every word spoken in the Constituent Assembly was recorded and preserved. These are called ‘Constituent Assembly Debates’.

Q.3What is the Preamble? Explain any three guiding principles explained in the Preamble. Ans. 1-Preamble is a short statement of the basic values of the constitution. Taking inspiration from American model, most countries have adopted constitutions with a preamble. 2-The preamble of the Indian constitution reads like a poem on democracy. 3-It contains the philosophy on which the entire constitution has been built; 1. Democratic–It will have a democratic government Where people will enjoy equal rights; 2. Equality–All citizens will be equal before the law; And 3. Fraternity–All world would behave as if they are members of the same family.

Q.4.Why do we need a constitution? Give any four points.

Ans.Every country has diverse groups of people. People have differences. Hence, the need to have a set of rules.Tomaintain a trust it as best to write down these rules. Thus the constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are accepted by all. 74 A constitution:-

 1. generates trust and coordination.

2. Specifies how government will be constituted.

3. Lays down limits on the powers of the government.

4. Expresses the aspirations of the people.

Q.5 State the steps involved in the framing of Indian constitution.

Ans.1-The drafting of the document called the constitution was done by an assembly of elected representatives called the Constituent assembly. 2- Elections to the Constituent Assembly were held in July 1946. Its first meeting was held in December 1946. It had 299 members. 3-The assembly adopted the constitution on 26 November 1949 and it came into force on 26 January 1950. Q.6.The Preamble of our constitution is a short statement of values. Which country has inspired India to incorporate the Preamble? Why does it start with ‘‘We, The People of India?’’ Ans. Taking inspiration from American model, most countries including India have chosen to begin their constitutions with a importance to the people of India by saying that it is the people who have drawn up and enacted the constitution. It has not been handed down to them by a king or any outside power.

Chapter 6

Democratic Rights

Class- IX

Question and Answers

1. Explain the prisoners’ condition in Guantanamo Bay.
i)  About 600 people were secretly picked up by the US forces from all over the world and put in a prison in Guantanamo Bay, an area near Cuba controlled by American
Navy.
ii) The American government said that they were enemies of the US and linked to
the attack on New York on 11 September 2001. In most cases the governments
of their countries were not asked or even informed about their imprisonment.
iii) Families of prisoners, media or even UN representatives were not allowed to
meet them. The US army arrested them, interrogated them and decided whether
to keep them there or not.
iv) There was no trial before any magistrate in the US. Nor could these prisoners
approach courts in their own country.

2. What was the basic reason for the ethnic massacre in Kosovo?
i) Kosovo was a province of Yugoslavia before its split. In this province the
population was overwhelmingly ethnic Albanian. But in the entire country,
Serbs were in majority.
ii) A narrow minded Serb nationalist Milosevic had won the election. His
government was very hostile to the Kosovo Albanians. He wanted the Serbs to
dominate the country. Many Serb leaders thought that Ethnic minorities like
Albanians should either leave the country or accept the dominance of the Serbs.
iii) This massacre was being carried out by the army of their own country, working
under the direction of a leader who came to power through democratic
elections. This was one of the worst instances of killings based on ethnic
prejudices in recent times.
iv) Finally several other countries intervened to stop this massacre. Milosevic lost
power and was tried by an International Court of Justice for crimes against
humanity.
3. In what respects are rights of citizens denied in Saudi Arabia?
i) The country is ruled by a hereditary king and the people have no role in
electing or changing their rulers.
ii) The king selects the legislature as well as the executive. He appoints the
judges and can change any of their decisions.
iii) Citizens cannot form political parties or any political organizations.
iv) Media cannot report anything that the monarch does not like.
v) There is no freedom of religion. Every citizen is required to be Muslim. Non-
Muslim residents can follow their religion in private, but not in public.
vi) Women are subjected to many public restrictions. The testimony of one man
is considered equal to that of two women.

4. Why rights are important  importance in Democracy.

i) Every one desires a system where security, dignity and fair play are assured to
everyone. No one should be arrested without proper reason and information.
And if someone is arrested, he or she should have a fair chance to defend
themselves.
ii) Such assurance cannot apply to everything. One has to be reasonable in what
one expects and demands of everyone else, for one has to grant the same to
everyone.
iii) But the assurance does not remain on paper, that there is someone to enforce
these assurances, that those who violate these are punished. In other words,
people want a system where at least a minimum is guaranteed to everyone –
powerful or weak, rich or poor, majority or minority. This is the spirit behind
thinking about rights.
5. What are rights?
Rights are claims of a person over other fellow beings, over the society and over
the government.
Rights are reasonable claims of persons recognized by society and sanctioned by
law.
6. What are the three qualities that a claim should have to become a right?
i) It should be reasonable claims of citizens that are equally possible for others.
ii) It should be recognized by society. Rights acquire meaning only in society.
iii) It should be sanctioned by law.
7. ‘The notion of rights changes from time to time and society to society’. Expalin with example.
What all rights that we enjoy today were not granted to citizens in the early period.
Two hundred years ago anyone who said that women should have right to vote
would have sounded strange. Today not granting them vote in Saudi Arabia
appears strange.
8. What is the role of rights in Democracy?

OR

 Why do we need rights in a democracy?
i) Rights protect minorities from the oppression of majority. They ensure that the
majority cannot do whatever it likes. Rights are guarantees which can be used
when things go wrong.
ii) Things may go wrong when some citizens may wish to take away the rights of
others. This usually happens when those in majority want to dominate those in
minority.
iii) The government should protect the citizens’ rights in such a situation. But
sometimes elected governments may not protect or may even attack the rights of
their own citizens. That is why some rights need to be placed higher than the
government, so that the government cannot violate these. In most democracies
the basic rights of the citizen are written down in the constitution.

9. Explain the term Right to Equality.
i) The Constitution says that the government shall not deny to any person in India
equality before the law or the equal protection of the laws. It means that the laws
apply in the same manner to all, regardless of a person’s status. This is called the
rule of law. Rule of law is the foundation of any democracy. It means that no
person is above the law. There cannot be any distinction between a political
leader, government official and an ordinary citizen. No person can legally claim
any special treatment or privilege just because he or she happens to be an
important person.
ii) This basic position is further clarified in the Constitution by spelling out some
implications of the Right to Equality. The government shall not discriminate
against any citizen on grounds of religion, caste, ethnicity, sex or place of birth.
Every citizen shall have access to public places like shops, restaurants, hotels,
and cinema halls.
iii) Similarly, there shall be no restriction with regard to the use of wells, tanks,
bathing ghats, roads, playgrounds and places of public resorts maintained by
government or dedicated to the use of general public.
iv) The same principle applies to public jobs. All citizens have equality of
opportunity in matters relating to employment or appointment to any position in
the government. No citizen shall be discriminated against or made ineligible for
employment on the grounds mentioned above.
10. Why do we consider Right to freedom a cluster of several rights?

OR What are the main provision of right to freedom.
There are many freedoms included under Right to Freedom. Under the Indian
Constitution all citizens have the right to:
i) Freedom of speech and expression
ii) Citizens have the freedom to hold meetings processions rallies and
demonstrations on any issue. (Assembly in a peaceful manner)
iii) Form associations and unions
iv) Move freely throughout the country
v) Reside in any part of the country, and
vi) Practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business.

11. What are the provisions in the Constitution regarding the Right against
exploitation?
The Constitution mentions three specific evils and declares these illegal.
i) First, the Constitution prohibits ‘traffic in human beings’. Traffic here means
selling and buying of human beings, usually women, for immoral purposes.
ii) Second, our Constitution also prohibits forced labour or begar in any form.
‘Begar’ is a practice where the worker is forced to render service to the ‘master’
free of charge or at a nominal remuneration. When this practice takes place on a
life-long basis, it is called the practice of bonded labour.
iii) Finally, the Constitution also prohibits child labour. No one can employ a child
below the age of fourteen to work in any factory or mine or in any other
hazardous work, such as railways and ports. Using this as a basis many laws have
been made to prohibit children from working in industries such as beedi making,
firecrackers and matches, printing and dyeing.
12. Explain the right to freedom of religion.
a. India is a secular state. A secular state is one that does not establish any one
religion as official religion. Indian secularism practices an attitude of an equal
distance from all religions. The state has to be neutral and impartial in dealing
with all religions.
b. Every person has a right to profess, practice and propagate any religion that
he or she believes in.
c. There shall be no religious instruction in the government educational
institutions. In educational institutions managed by private bodies no person
shall be compelled to take part in any religious instruction or to attend any
religious worship.
13. What are the cultural and educational rights granted to minorities?
i) Any section of citizens with a distinct language or culture have a right to
conserve it.
ii) Admission to any educational institution maintained by government or receiving
government aid cannot be denied to any citizen on the ground of religion or
language.
iii) All minorities have the right to establish and administer educational institutions
of their choice.

14. Explain the term Right to Constitutional remedy.
a. Fundamental Rights are guaranteed against the actions of the Legislatures, the
Executive, and any other authorities instituted by the government. There can be
no law or action that violates the Fundamental Rights.
b. If any act of the Legislature or the Executive takes away or limits any of the
Fundamental Rights it will be invalid. We can challenge such laws of the central
and state governments, the policies and actions of the government or the
governmental organizations like the nationalized banks or electricity boards.
c. Courts also enforce the Fundamental Rights against private individuals and
private bodies. The Supreme Court and High Courts have the power to issue
directions, orders or writs for the enforcement of the Fundamental Rights. They
can also award compensation to the victims and punishment to the violators.

15. How can judiciary protect fundamental rights of citizens?
i) In case of any violation of a Fundamental Right the aggrieved person can go to a
court for remedy. The Supreme Court and High Courts have the power to issue
directions, orders or writs for the enforcement of the Fundamental Rights. They
can also award compensation to the victims and punishment to the violators
ii) Now, any person can go to court against the violation of the Fundamental Right,
if it is of social or public interest. It is called Public Interest Litigation (PIL).
Under the PIL any citizen or group of citizens can approach the Supreme Court
or a High Court for the protection of public interest against a particular law or
action of the government. One can write to the judges even on a postcard. The
court will take up the matter if the judges find it in public interest.

16. Explain the expanding scope of rights.
i) From time to time, the courts gave judgments to expand the scope of rights.
Certain rights like right to freedom of press, right to information, and right to
education are derived from the Fundamental Rights.
ii) Now school education has become a right for Indian citizens. The governments
are responsible for providing free and compulsory education to all children up to
the age of 14 years.
iii) Parliament has enacted a law giving the right to information to the citizens. This
Act was made under the Fundamental Right to freedom of thought and
expression. We have a right to seek information from government offices.
iv) Recently the Supreme Court has expanded the meaning of the right to life to
include the right to food. Also, rights are not limited only to Fundamental Rights
as enumerated in the Constitution.
v) Constitution provides many more rights, which may not be Fundamental Rights.
For example the right to property is not a Fundamental Right but it is a
constitutional right. Right to vote in elections is an important constitutional right.
Sometimes the expansion takes place in what is called human rights. These are
universal moral claims that may or may not have been recognized by law. In that
sense these claims are not rights. With the expansion of democracy all over the
world, there is greater pressure on governments to accept these claims.

17. What are fundamental rights?
These are the basic rights granted to citizens of India by the Constitution. In
India, like most other democracies in the world, rights are mentioned in the
Constitution. Some rights which are fundamental to our life are given a special
status. They are called Fundamental Rights.

18. What are the new rights granted to the Government of South Africa to its
people?
i) Right to privacy, so that citizens or their home cannot be searched, their phones
cannot be tapped, their communication cannot be opened.
ii) Right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well being;
iii) Right to have access to adequate housing.
iv) Right to have access to health care services, sufficient food and water; no one
may be refused emergency medical treatment.

Chapter-8

CHALLENGES TO DEMOCRACY

01. Name any two challenges to the working of democracy in India?

Ans. Social and Economic inequality and casteism are the two challenges being faced by Indian Democracy.

02. What is the challenge of expansion?

Ans. The challenge of expansion, which is present in an established democracy, means applying the principle of democracy across all the regions, different social groups and institutions in the country.

03. Define the term 'Democratic Reform'.

Ans. Any proposal or suggestion about overcoming various challenges of democracy are called democratic reforms.

04. What types of challenges are being faced by democracy?

Ans. Three types of challenges i.e., Foundational challenge, challenge of expansion and deepening of democracy.

05. Give examples of challenge of expansion to democracy.

Ans. To give more powers to local governments and expansion of federal principle to all the units of the federation.

06. How can democratic reforms be carried out?

Ans. Democratic reforms can be carried out by

(a) legally

(b) by good quality of people's participation

(c) Development of democratic movement and the media.

07. What are the legal ways of reforming politics?

Ans. It means changes in the existing laws which can help to discourage wrong practices and encourage good ones or to bring amendments in the constitution.

08. What is the most common form of democracy in today's world?

Ans. Indirect or representative democracy

09. What do you understand by regionalism?

Ans. When the people, living in a particular, region, awaken to their separate existence, due to social, economic or geographical causes, the leaning towards their region, is called regionalism.

10. Mention any two measures to remove poverty in India.

Ans. The ever-increasing population of India should be effectively checked and steps should be taken to increase agricultural production in the country.

SHORT ANSWER TYPE QUESTIONS (3 MARKS)

Q.1. What do you understand by the term ‘foundational challenges’?

Ans. Many countries even now are not democratic. They have to make a transition from other forms of governments to democracy and then instituting democratic governments. Such countries face the foundational challenge

Q.2. Briefly explain how the challenge of deepening of democracy can be met? Ans. It means strengthening the existing institutions of democracy and practices of democracy. As different people, different countries have different people, different countries have different expectations from democracy means that a democracy has to encourage people’s participation and control on democratic institutions. It has to curb and cut down the role of money power, the influence of the rich on making governmental decisions.

Q.3. What are the forms of challenges faced by different countries in respect to democracy?

Ans. (i) Countries which are not yet democratic face a foundational challenge—making a transition to democracy and establishing democratic governments.

(ii) Many countries face the challenge of expansion. This means applying principles of democracy to all the state, local and regional levels. It means including all social and economic groups including women empowerment.

(iii)All the democracies face the challenge of deepening of democracy. They have to improve and strengthen all institutions of democracy and curb all anti-democratic activities.

Q.4. Why do most people want to reform politicians? Do you agree with their views?

Ans. General public tends to blame politicians for all the ills of our country. People think they are responsible for the corruption, defection, casteism, communal violence, criminality etc. But it is wrong to do so, because all politicians are not bad, there are both good, honest politicians as well as bad, corrupt ones. It is for the citizens to be more alert and make the right choice at the time of elections. People and politicians together can meet the various challenges like casteism and community, not any strict laws.

Q.5. Can we draw a list of political reforms applicable to all democracies? Why/Why not?

Ans. Since all the countries do not have the same challenges, it is understood that everyone cannot follow the same recipe of political reforms. So, we cannot draw a list of political reforms applicable to all the democracies.

Q.6. What is the lacuna in legal means of political reform?

Ans. Any legal change must carefully look at what result it will have on politics. Sometimes, the results may be counter-productive. Generally, laws that seek to ban something are not very successful in politics. The best laws are those which empower people to carry out democratic reforms.

Q.7. Examine the three challenges of democracy.

Ans. (i) Foundational challenge : It refers to making the transition to democracy and then instituting democratic government.

(ii) Challenge of Expansion : This involves applying the basic principle of democratic government across all the regions, different social groups and various institutions.

(iii)Deepening of Democracy : This involves strengthening of the institutions and practices of democracy.

Q.8. Analyse three challenges before the countries which do not have a democratic form of government.

Ans. (i) Bringing down the existing non-democratic regime.

(ii) Keeping military away from controlling government.

(iii)Establishing a sovereign and functional state. At least one-fourth of the globe is still not under democratic governance. The challenge for democracy in these parts of the world is very stark. These countries face the foundational challenge of making the transition to democracy and then instituting a democratic government.

Long Questions (5 Marks):-

Q.1. Explain the challenges faced by Indian democracy while holding free and fair elections.

Ans. (i) Casteism and communalism. Voters in India vote on the basis of caste and religion. They do note consider the ability of the candidate. In the same way, parties are affected by caste and community. They give tickets based on the above consideration and not the ability.

(ii) Money power : A lot of money is spent by parties and candidates to win the favour of the voters. They try to buy votes by wooing the poor, the illiterate and lower classes. The ordinary citizens cannot contest elections.

(iii)Unfair advantage lies with bigger parties. They have more resources as compared to smaller parties and independent candidates

(iv) Voters have no choice : There is sometimes no difference in the agenda of different parties. It is only a clash of personalities and voter has no choice.

(v) Politics have been criminalised in recent times. More and more people with criminal background are winning elections. They indulge in booth capturing, and rigging during elections. They use muscle power to intimidate the voters.

(vi) Politicians misuse government machinery during elections.

Q.2. What sustains democracy in India?

OR

How can the principles of democracy be applied to all spheres of life.

Ans. India has been a democracy since it won independence in 1947. Seventy  years have not shaken the roots of democracy in our country.

First of all, India has given equal rights and freedom to every citizen. Fundamental rights are given by the Constitution to all the people.

1.There is universal adult franchise which gives every citizen a right to vote in elections. This has made the political parties to reach out to millions of people located in urban, rural or slum areas.

2.The citizens are also now aware of the power they have to change governments and disapprove their policies.

3.Government has taken measures to protect the weaker section of society. They are given reservation of seats in the Parliament, State Assemblies and local bodies. Seats are reserved for women in the Panchyati Raj institutions.

4.There is full freedom of thought, speech and writing and people can form and express their opinions without fear.

5.There is Freedom of Press. The press can shape public opinion by giving unbiased news about issues facing the country. zIndia has a federal system where power is shared both horizontally and vertically. People have a say in decision-making right from the village panchayat to the top. All these factors have kept India a united democracy.

Q.3. What is the role of an ordinary citizen in a democracy?

Ans.1.A citizen has to be an active and participatory citizen. He has to be interested not only in his affairs, but of the affairs of the nation as well. He should be well informed about the politics of his country. zHe should have consideration and regard for other people — their needs, views and well being.

2.People must co-operate with the government to make democracy successful.

3.Besides their rights, they should be aware of their duties as citizens of the country.

4.He should get rid of intolerance, fanaticism and inhuman treatment of weaker sections of the society. He should be law abiding himself and teach others to be law abiding citizens too.

5.Acts of Parliament cannot create a healthy, successful, democracy. India needs well informed, concerned citizens, who take keen interest in public affairs, perform all their civic duties and co-operate with the government.

Q.4.. “Different countries face different kinds of challenges.” Support the statement with suitable examples.

OR Why do most of the established democracies face the challenge expansion? Give any three reasons.

OR

Explain various type of challenges being faced by the modern democracies of the world?

Ans. It is true that different countries face different kinds of challenges —

(i) Non-democratic countries face foundational challenges. This involves bringing down the existing non-democratic regime, keeping military away from controlling government and establishing a sovereign and functional state. Example : In Myanmar, military rule should be challenged. Suu Kyi should be freed and should be elected as the representative of the popular government.

(ii) Every democracy faces the challenge of deepening of democracy. This involves applying the basic principle of democratic government across all the regions, different social groups and various institutions. Example : In Saudi Arabia, women are not allowed to take part in public activities, and no freedom of religion is there for the minorities.

(iii)Every democracy face the challenge of expansion. This involves strengthening of the institutions and practices of democracy. It requires an attempt to bring down that control and influence of the rich and powerful people in making governmental decision. Example : In USA, Black or African-American people have won equal rights, but are still poor, less educated and marginalised.

Q.5. What is a ‘challenge’? Explain the three major challenges before the countries of the world regarding democracy.  

OR

How can the countries facing the foundational challenge of making a transition to democracy set up a democratic government? Suggest any three measures.

    OR

The challenge of deepening of democracy is faced by every democracy in one form or another. Support the statement with three suitable arguments. How can democracy be reformed and deepened? Suggest any three guidelines.

Ans. A ‘challenge’ is a difficulty which carries within it an opportunity for progress. Three major challenge are :

(i) Foundational challenge is about making the transition to democracy and then instituting a democratic government. This involves bringing down the existing non-democratic regime, keeping military away from controlling the government and establishing a sovereign and functional state. Example : Myanmar, Chile, Nepal

(ii) Challenge of Expansion is faced by most of the  established democracies. This involves applying the basic principle of democratic government across all the regions, different social groups and various institutions. Most countries including India and other democracies like the U.S. face this challenge.

(iii)Deepening of democracy : This involves strengthening of the institutions and practices of democracy, specially those that help people’s participation and control. This attempts to bring down the control and influence of the rich and powerful people in making governmental decision.

Q.6. Explain four ways to reform democracy in India.

OR

Explain which four guidelines should be kept in mind while devising ways and means for political reforms in India.

Suggest any three ways in which political reforms can be made in India?

Ans. (i) Carefully devised changes in law can help to discourage wrong political practices and encourage good ones. At the same time, legal-constitutional changes by themselves cannot overcome challenges to democracy. They are to be carried out mainly by political activities, parties movements and politically conscious citizens.

(ii) Legal changes can sometimes be counter-productive. Generally, laws that seek to ban something are not very successful. Rather laws that give political actors incentives to do good things have more chances of working. For, example, the ‘Right to Information Act’ empowers people to act as watchdogs of democracy.

(iii) The main focus of political reforms should be on ways to strengthen democratic practice. The most important concern should be to increase and improve the quality of political participation by ordinary citizens.

(iv) Any proposal for political reforms should think not only about what is a good solution but also about who will implement it and how measures that rely or democratic movements, citizens’ organisations and the media are likely to succeed.