Class 1oth Pol Science by Rafiq Sir 2022

Prepared by Rafiq Sir writer and consultant at Educreation publishing
Power sharing 1
Question 1.
What are the different forms of power-sharing in modern democracies? Give an
example of each of these.
Answer:
In a democracy, power is shared among the different organs of the government
such as the legislature, executive, and the judiciary. This is called the horizontal
power sharing, because it allows different organs of the government placed at
the same level to exercise different powers.
(ii) Power is also -shared among different levels of the govt. Which is called
vertical power sharing. Under this form of power sharing power is shared
between different levels of govt. like in Indian we have three levels of govt.
union government for entire country. state government for particular state and
local self government. For village. (iii) Power-sharing among
different social groups:
among social groups such as the religious and linguistic groups. ‘Community
government’ in Belgium is a good example of this arrangement.
(iv) Power-sharing among political parties and pressure groups, : In a
democracy, power is also shared among different political parties and pressure
groups, Question 2.
State one prudential reason and one moral reason for power-sharing with an
Prepared by Rafiq Sir masters in pol-science /English Page 1

example from the Indian context.
Answer:
(1) Prudential reason:
 Power-sharing is desirable because it helps to reduce the possibility
of conflict between social groups,
 conflict often leads to violence and political instability, power-
sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order,
 power sharing prevents majority community to impose its will on
minority which undermines the unity of the nation
 The tyranny of the majority is not just oppressive for the majority, it
often brings ruin to the majority as well.
(2) Moral reason:
 It upholds the spirit of democracy in a truly democratic setup in India the
citizens can come together to debate and criticize the decision and
policies of government.
 A legitimate government is one where citizens participate and acquire a
stake in the system. Thus, moral reasons emphasize the very act of
power-sharing as valuable. In India, people elect their representatives
every five years or earlier. People have also been granted the right to
information.
Question 3.
After reading this chapter, three students drew different conclusions. Which of
these do you agree with and why? Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Thomman — Power sharing is necessary only in societies which have religious,
linguistic or ethnic divisions.
Mathai — Power sharing is suitable only for big countries that have regional
divisions.
Ouseph — Every society needs some form of power-sharing even if it is small
or does not have social divisions.
Answer:
Every society needs some form of power sharing even if they are small or do
not have social divisions because :
(i) Some power-sharing is always needed to give voice to all, and representation
to all the members of the country.
(ii) Power-sharing solutions are adopted to maintain stability in the system, and
peace among various groups to ensure the smooth functioning of the system,
irrespective of the size of the country.
Question 4.
The Mayor of Merchtem, a town near Brussels in Belgium, has defended a ban
on speaking French in the town’s schools. He said that the ban would help all
non-Dutch speakers integrate into this Flemish town. Do you think that this
measure is in keeping with the spirit of Belgium’s power-sharing arrangements?
Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Answer:
No, the measure taken by the Mayor of Merchtem is not in keeping with the
spirit of Belgium’s power sharing arrangements. As 59 per cent of the

population in the Flemish region speaks Dutch, the ban on speaking French in
the town’s schools would prevent French and Dutch speakers to mingle with
each other, and also create feelings of distrust and suspicion. The ban ignores
the regional differences and cultural diversities. It is against the spirit of
accommodating every linguistic group, and creating a right environment for
everyone to live. The ban, rather, makes the ground for a civic strife, and a
possible division of the community on linguistic lines.
Question 5.
Read the following passage and pick out any one of the prudential reasons for
power sharing offered in this :
“We need to give more power to the panchayats to realise the dream of
Mahatma Gandhi and the hopes of the makers of our Constitution. Panchayati
Raj establishes true democracy. It restores power to the only place where power
belongs in a democracy – in the hands of the people. Giving power to
Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption and increase administrative
efficiency. When people participate in the planning and implementation of
developmental schemes, they would naturally exercise greater control over
these schemes. This would eliminate the corrupt middlemen. Thus, Panchayati
Raj will strengthen the foundations of our democracy.”
Answer:
“Giving power to Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption and increase
administrative efficiency. When people participate in the planning and
implementation of developmental schemes, they would naturally exercise
greater control over these schemes. This would eliminate the corrupt

middlemen. Thus, Panchayati Raj will strengthen the foundations of our
democracy.” In this way power sharing will help to reduce the possibility of
conflicts among different social groups in the village. There will be no violence
and political stability will be established. As a result of it there will be peace
and the village may make progress in different fields.
Question 6.
Different arguments are usually put forth in favour of and against power-
sharing. Identify those which are in favour of power-sharing and select the
answer using the codes given below. Power-sharing :
A. reduces conflict among different communities.
B. decreases the possibility of arbitrariness.
C. delays the decision-making process.
D. accommodates diversities.
E. increases instability and divisiveness.
F. promotes people’s participation in government.
G. undermines the unity of a country.
(a) A B D
(b) A C E
(c) A B D

(d) B C D
Answer:
(a) A, B, D, F.
Question 7.
Consider the following statements about power-sharing arrangements in
Belgium and Sri Lanka :
A. In Belgium, the Dutch-speaking majority of people tried to impose their
domi¬nation on the minority French-speaking community.
B. In Sri Lanka, the policies of the government sought to ensure the dominance
of the Sinhala-speaking majority.
C. The Tamils in Sri Lanka demanded a federal arrangement of power-sharing
to protect their culture, language and equality of opportunity in education and
jobs.
D. The transformation of Belgium from a unitary government to a federal one
prevented a possible division of the country on linguistic lines.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) A, B, C, and D

(b) A, B, and D
(c) C and D
(d) B, C, and D
Answer:
(d) B, C, and D.
Question 8.
Match List I (forms of power-sharing) with List-II (forms of government) and
select the correct answer using the codes given below in the lists :
List I List II
1. Power shared among different organs of government A. Community government
2. Power shared among governments at different levels B. Separation of powers
3. Power shared by different social groups C. Coalition government
4. Power shared by two or more political parties D. Federal government

Answer:
(c) B, D, A, C.
Question 9.
Consider the following two statements on power-sharing and select the answer
using the codes given below :
A. Power sharing is good for democracy.
B. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
Which of these statements are true and false?
(a) A is true but B is false (b) Both A and B are true
(c) Both A and B are false (cl) A is false but B is true
1 2 3
(a) D A B
(b) B C D
(c) B D A
(d) C D A

Answer:
(b) Both A and B are true.
Federalism
Question 1.
Locate the following States on a blank outline political map of India: Manipur,
Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, and Goa.
Answer:
The states have been shown in the map on page P – 15.
Question 2.
Identify and shade three federal countries (other than India) on a blank outline
political map of the world.
Answer:

Federal states — USA, Brazil, and Australia have been shown in the map on
page P-16.


Question 3.
Point out one feature in the practice of federalism in India that is similar to and
one feature that is different from that of Belgium.
Answer:
(1) Similar features: Distribution of powers –

In both the countries, power has been divided among the union government,
state (provincial) government, and local governments (community govt, in
Belgium).
 In Belgium,
1. The regional governments have jurisdiction over transportation,
public works, water policy, education, public health, and
housing, etc.
2. The community government has the power regarding cultural,
educational, and language-related issues.
 In India, for example
1. The legislative powers have been divided between the Union
Govt and the State Governments.
2. It contains three lists – Union list, State list, and Concurrent list.
3. By the Act of 1992, the third tier e., local govts, have been
granted more powers.
(2) Different features: Forms of government – In Belgium in addition to Central
and State government, there is a third kind of government that is community
government. This is elected by people belonging to one language community –
Dutch, French, and German-speaking – no matter where they live. This
government deals with cultural, educational, and language-related issues. In
India, there is no such government.

In India, there is a three-tier government. The third government is the local
government i.e., Panchayats at the village level and Municipalities at the town
level. These bodies have been given powers by constitutional amendment in
1992.
Some of the provisions of the Act are as mentioned below :
 Mandatory to hold regular elections to local govt, bodies.
 Reservation of seats for SC/ST/OBC.
 Reservation of 1/3 seats for women.
 State Election Commission to hold elections.
 State govt, to share some powers.
Question 4.
What is the main difference between a federal form of government and a unitary
one? Explain with an example.
Answer:
Under the federal system, generally, there are two sets of government i.e.,
national and state. Powers are divided between the two. For example in India,
there are three lists – Union list, State list, and Concurrent list. The central or
national government makes laws on the subjects in the Union List. These are
subjects of national importance such as defense, foreign affairs and currency.
The state governments enact laws on the subjects included in the state list.
These subjects are of state and local importance such as police, trade,
agriculture and irrigation. Both the governments can enact laws on the subjects

included in the concurrent list which includes subjects of common interest.
These are education, forest, trade unions, and marriage etc.
On the other hand, under the unitary system, there is only one level of
government at the national level. There are no provincial or state governments
as we have in India. There is, therefore, no division of powers. The units or
provincial government if any, are subordinate to the central government or
national government as in England. The central or national government has all
the powers.
Question 5.
State any two differences between the local government before and after the
Constitutional amendment in
1992. ,
Answer:
A major step towards decentralization was taken in 1992. The Constitution was
amended to make the third-tier of democracy more powerful and effective. Now
it is constitutionally mandated to hold regular elections to local government
bodies. Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the executive heads of these
institutions for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward
Classes.
At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women. An independent
institution called the State Election Commission has been created in each State
to conduct panchayat and municipal elections. The State governments are

required to share some powers and revenue with local government bodies. The
nature of sharing varies from State to State.
Question 6.
Fill in the blanks :
Since the United States is a (1)_________________________ type of
federation, all the Constituent States have equal powers and States are
(2)________________________ vis-a-vis the federal government. But India is a
(3)_____________________ type of federation and some States have more
power than others. In India, the (4)_______________________ government has
more powers.
Answer:
(1) coming together (2) strong (3) holding together (4) central
Question 7.
Here are three reactions to the language policy followed in India. Give an
argument and an example to support any of these positions.
Sangeeta: The policy of accommodation has strengthened national unity.
Arman: The language-based States have divided us by making everyone con-
scious of their language.
Harish: This policy has only helped to consolidate the dominance of English
over all other languages.
Answer:
The position held by Sangeeta that the policy of accommodation has

strengthened national unity is correct. The Central Government agreed to
continue the use of English along with Hindi for official purposes to avoid the
Lankan kind of situation. Otherwise, the movement against Hindi would have
taken a more ugly turn. The promotion of Hindi continues to be the official
policy of the Government of India. Promotion does not mean that the Central
Government can impose Hindi on states where people speak a different
language. The flexibility shown by our leaders helped our country avoid the
kind of situation that Sri Lanka finds itself in. Thus the policy of
accommodation has strengthened national unity. Hindi is being used along with
English for official purposes.
Question 8.
The distinguishing feature of a federal government is :
(a) National government gives some powers to the provincial government.
(b) Power is distributed among the legislature, executive, and judiciary.
(c) Elected officials exercise supreme power in the government.
(d) Governmental power is divided between different levels of government.
Question 9.
A few subjects in various Lists of the Indian Constitution are given here. Group
them under the Union, State, and Concurrent Lists as provided in the table
below :
Defence; B. Police; C. Agriculture; D. Education; E. Banking; F. Forests; G.
Communications; H. Trade; I. Marriages.

Union List
State List
Concurrent List
Answer:
1. Union List: Defence, Banking and Communications.
2. State List: Police, Agriculture and Trade.
3. Concurrent List; Education, Forests and family planning.
Question 10.
Examine the following pairs that give the level of government in India and the
powers of the government at that level to make laws on the subjects mentioned
against each. Which of the following pairs is not correctly matched ?
(a) State government State List

(b) Central government Union List
(c) Central and State governments Concurrent List
(d) Local governments Residuary powers
Answer:
(d) Local governments — Residuary powers. It is not correctly matched because
the residuary powers have been given to the Central Government.
Question 11.
Match List I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given
below the lists :
List I List II
1. Union of India A. Prime Minister
2. State B. Sarpanch

3. Municipal Corporation C. Governor
4. Gram Panchayat D. Mayor
1 2 3
(a) D A B
(b) B C D
(c) A C D
(d) C D A

Answer:
(c) A, C, D, B.
Question 12.
Consider the following statements:
(a) In a federation, the powers of the federal and provincial governments are
clearly demarcated.
(b) India is a federation because the powers of the Union and State Govern-
ments are specified in the Constitution and they have exclusive jurisdiction on
their respective subjects.
(c) Sri Lanka is a federation because the country is divided into provinces.
(d) India is no longer a federation because some powers of the States have been
devolved to the local government bodies.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) A, B, and C
(b) A, C, and D
(c) A and B only
(d) B and C only

Democracy and diversity
Question 1.
Discuss three factors that determine the outcomes of politics of social divisions.
Answer:
Three factors are crucial in deciding the outcome of politics of social divisions.
First of all the outcome depends on how people perceive their identities. If
people see their identities in singular and exclusive terms, it becomes very
difficult to accommodate. As long as people in Northern Ireland saw themselves
as only Catholic or Protestant, their differences were difficult to reconcile. It is
much easier if the people see that their identities are multiple and are
complementary with the national identity.
A majority of Belgians now feel that they are as much Belgian as they are Dutch
or German-speaking.
This helps them to stay together. This is how most people in our country see
their identity
Second, it depends on how political leaders raise the demands of any
community. It is easier to accommodate demands that are within the
constitutional framework and are not at the cost of another community.

Third, it depends on how the government reacts to the demands of different
groups. As we saw in the examples of Belgium and Sri Lanka, if the rulers are
willing to share power and accommodate the reasonable demands of minority
community, social divisions become less threatening for the country.
Question 2.
When does a social difference become a social division?
Answer:
People who feel marginalized, deprived, and discriminated against have to fight
against the injustices. Such a fight often takes the democratic path, voicing their
demands in a peaceful and constitutional manner, and seeking a fair position
through elections.
Sometimes social differences can take the form of an unacceptable level of
social inequality and injustice. The struggle against such inequalities sometimes
takes the path of violence and defiance of state power. However, history shows
that democracy is the best way to fight for recognition and also to accommodate
diversity.
Question 3.
How do social divisions affect politics? Give two examples.
Answer:
Expression of various kinds of social divisions in politics often results in their
cancelling one another out and thus reducing their intensity. This leads to the
strengthening of democracy. But a positive attitude towards diversity and a

willingness to accommodate it does not come about easily. People who feel
marginalized, deprived, and discriminated against have to fight against the
injustices.
Such a fight often takes the democratic path, voicing their demands in a
peaceful and constitutional manner, and seeking a fair position through
elections. Sometimes social differences can take the form of an unacceptable
level of social inequality and injustice. The struggle against such inequalities
sometimes takes the path of violence and defiance of state power. However,
history shows that democracy is the best way to fight for recognition and also to
accommodate diversity.
Question 4.
Fill in the blanks:
___________ social differences create possibilities of deep social divisions and
tensions. ____________ social differences do not usually lead to conflicts.
Answer:
Overlapping social differences create possibilities of deep social divisions and
tensions Cross-cutting social differences do not usually lead to conflicts.
Question 5.
In dealing with social divisions which one of the following statements is NOT
correct about democracy?
(a) Due to political competition in a democracy, social divisions get reflected in
politics.

(b) In a democracy it is possible for communities to voice their grievances in a
peaceful manner.
(c) Democracy is the best way to accommodate social diversity.
(d) Democracy always leads to the disintegration of society on the basis of
social divisions.
Answer:
(d) Democracy always leads to the disintegration of society on the basis of
social divisions.
Question 6.
Consider the following three statements :
A. Social divisions take place when social differences overlap.
B. It is possible that a person can have multiple identities.
C. Social divisions exist in only big countries like India. Which of the
statements is/are correct?
(a) A, B, and C
(b) A and B
(c) B and C
(d) Only C
Answer:
(b) A and B
Question 7.
Arrange the following statements in a logical sequence and select the right
answers by using the code given

below :
A. But all political expressions of social divisions need not be always
dangerous.
B. Social divisions of one kind or the other exist in most countries.
C. Parties try to win political support by appealing to social divisions.
D. Some social differences may result in social divisions.
(a) D, B, C, A
(b) D, B, A, C
(c) D, A, C, B
(d) A, B, C, D
Answer:
(a) D, B, C, A
Question 8.
Among the following, which country suffered disintegration due to political
fights on the basis of religious and ethnic identities?
(a) Belgium
(b) India
(c) Yugoslavia
(d) the Netherlands
Answer:
(c) Yugoslavia
Question 9.
Read the following passage from a famous speech of Martin Luther King Jr. in

1963. Which social division is he talking about? What are his aspirations and
anxieties? Do you see a relationship between this speech and the incident in
Mexico Olympics mentioned in this chapter?
‘I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where
they will not be judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their
character. Let freedom ring. And when this happens, and when we allow
freedom ring – when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from
every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of
God’s children – black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and
Catholics – will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro
spiritual: ‘Free at last! Free at last Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!’ I
have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning
of its creed,: “We hold these truths to be self- evident: that all men are created
equal.”
Answer:
Social division: He is talking about social divisions in the USA between the
Blacks and Whites, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants, and Catholics.
His aspirations and anxieties: He aspires that all human beings must be free and
there should be no discrimination on the basis of color and creed. He dreams
that his four children would one day live in a nation where they would not be
judged by the colour of their skin but by the content of their character. He
dreamt that there would be freedom for all in every village, hamlet, city, state.
He hoped that the time would come when all people – Black, White, Jews and
Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics – without any discrimination, would join and

ring the words of the old Negro spiritual: Free at last! Free at last! Thank God
Almighty, we are free at last!” In short, he dreamt that one day all men would
be treated as equal.
Relationship between the speech and the incident in Mexico Olympics: There is
a relationship between the two because at the medal ceremony of the 200 meters
race in the 1968 Olympics held in Mexico City, two African-Americans –
Tommie Smith and John Carlos, who had won gold and bronze medals, had
protested against Black poverty wearing black socks and no shoes.
We hope the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social Science Civics Chapter 3
Democracy and Diversity help you. If you have any query regarding NCERT
Solutions for Class 10 Social Science Civics Chapter 3 Democracy and
Diversity, drop a comment below and we will get back to you at the earliest.
Gender religious and cast
Question 1.
Mention different aspects of life in which women are discriminated or
disadvantaged in India.
Answer:
Sexual difference is biological but gender difference is sociological. Women on
the basis of gender have always been discriminated in almost all the societies of
the world including India. Ours is a male-dominated patriarchal society. Women
face disadvantage, discrimination, and oppression in various ways as mentioned
below :

(1) Different aspects of life in which women are discriminated or disadvantaged
in India are as given below :
1. Education :
 Women are deprived of equal access to education. Thus, the
literacy rate among women is only 54 percent as compared to
76 percent among men.
 A smaller proportion of girl students go for higher education
because in spite of their better performance than boys, they
drop out as parents prefer to spend their resources for their
son’s education,
 They do not want to spend equally on their sons and.daughters.
Discrimination in job opportunities and remuneration or salary :
 The number of women on highly paid jobs is less than men.
 Women are discriminated in job opportunities as well as in
appointment among highly paid and valued jobs,
 Under Equal Wages Act, equal wages should be paid for equal
work. In practice almost in every sphere, women are paid less
than men, even when both do exactly the same work,
 On average an Indian woman works one hour more than an
average man every day. Yet much of her work is not paid and
therefore often not valued.
Preference for sons: Even now in many parts of India, parents prefer to
have sons, There are cases where a girl child is aborted before she is

born. Due to sex-selective abortion, the sex-ratio has declined from 927
in 2001 to 850 or 800 in some places.
Cases of harassment, exploitation, and violence: Women are exploited by
their employers. They are sexually assaulted at homes. They are not
safe during their journey at night. They are subjected to various forms
of domestic violence such as beating and harassment.
Question 2.
State different forms of communal politics with one example each.
Answer:
The most common expression of communalism is in everyday beliefs. These
routinely involve religious prejudices, stereotypes of religious communities and
belief in the superiority of one’s religion over other religions. This is so
common that we often fail to notice it, even when we believe in it.
A communal mind often leads to a quest for political dominance of one’s own
religious community. For those belonging to the majority community, this takes
the form of majoritarian dominance. For those belonging to the minority
community, it can take the form of a desire to form a separate political unit.
Question 3.
State how caste inequalities are still continuing in India.
Answer:
Caste has not disappeared from contemporary India. Some of the older aspects
of caste have persisted. Even now most people marry within their own caste or

tribe. Untouchability has not ended completely, despite constitutional
prohibition. The effects of centuries of advantages and disadvantages continue
to be felt today. The caste groups that had access to education under the old
system have done very well in acquiring modern education as well. Those
groups that did not have access to education or were prohibited from acquiring
it have naturally lagged behind. That is why there is a disproportionately large
presence of ‘upper caste’ among the urban middle classes in our country. Caste
continues to be closely linked to economic status.
Question 4.
State reasons to say that caste alone cannot determine election results in India.
Answer:
The caste alone cannot determine election results in India due to the reasons as
mentioned
below :
1. No parliamentary constituency in the country has a clear majority of one
single caste. So every candidate and party needs to win the confidence
of more than one caste and community to win elections.
2. When people say that caste is a vote bank of one party, it usually means
that a large proportion of the voters from that caste vote for that party.
3. Candidates from the same caste :

 Many political parties may put up candidates from the same caste
if that caste is believed to dominate the electorate in a particular
constituency.
The ruling party and the sitting members frequently lose elections in our
country. This could not have happened if all castes and communities
were frozen in their political preferences.
Lastly people make their own assessment about the performance of their leaders
and this differs with one another.
Thus it can be concluded that caste alone cannot determine election results in
India.
Question 5.
What is the status of women’s representation in India’s legislative bodies?
Answer:
In India, the proportion of women in the legislature has been very low. For
example, the percentage of elected women members in Lok Sabha has never
reached even 10 percent of its total strength. Their share in the state assemblies
is less than 5 percent. In this respect, India is among the bottom group of nations
in the world. India is behind the averages for several developing countries of
Africa and Latin America. In the government, cabinets are largely all-male even
when a woman becomes the Chief Minister or the Prime Minister.
Question 6.
Mention any two constitutional provisions that make India a secular state.

Answer:
Two constitutional provisions that make India a secular state are given below :
1. There is no official religion in India. Our Constitution does not give a
special status to any religion like Islam in Pakistan, Buddhism in Sri
Lanka and Christianity in England. State observes an attitude of
neutrality and impartiality towards all religions.
2. The Constitution provides to all persons and communities freedom to
profess, practice and propagate any religion or not to follow any.
Question 7.
When we speak of gender divisions, we usually refer to :
(a) Biological difference between men and women.
(b) Unequal roles assigned by society to men and women.
(c) Unequal child sex ratio. .
(d) Absence of voting rights for women in democracies.
Answer:
(b) Unequal roles assigned by society to men and women.
Question 8.
In India, seats are reserved for women in
(a) Lok sabha
(b) State legislative assemblies
(c) Cabinets
(d) Panchayati Raj bodies

Answer:
(d) Panchayati Raj bodies
Question 9.
Consider the following statements on the meaning of communal politics:
Communal politics is based on the belief that:
A. One religion is superior to that of others.
B. People belonging to different religions can live together happily as equal
citizens.
C. Followers of a particular religion constitute one community.
D. State power cannot be used to establish the domination of one religious
group over others.
Which of the statements is/are correct?
(a) A, B, C and D
(b) A, B and D
(c) A and C
(d) B and D
Answer:
(c) A and C
Question 10.
Which among the following statements about India’s Constitution is wrong?
(a) prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion.
(b) gives official status to one religion.
(c) provides to all individuals the freedom to profess any religion.

(d) ensures the equality of citizens within religious communities.
Answer:
Question 11.
Social divisions based on ……………… are peculiar to India.
Answer:
caste
Question 12.
Match List I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given
below the Lists:
List I List II
A person who believes in equal rights and opportunities for women and
1. A. Communalist
men
2. A person who says that religion is the principal basis of community B. Feminist
3. A person who thinks that caste is the principal basis of community C. Secularist

4. A person who does not discriminate others on the basis of religious beliefs D. Castiest
1 2 3
(a) B C A
(b) B A D
(c) D C A
(d) C A B
Answer:
(b) B, A, D, C is the correct answer.
Popular struggle and movements

Question 1.
In what ways do pressure groups and movements exert influence on politics?
Answer:
Like an interest group, a movement group also attempts to influence politics
rather than directly take part in electoral competition. But unlike the interest
groups, movements have a loose organization. Their decision making is more
informal and flexible. They depend much more on spontaneous mass
participation than an interest group.
Question 2.
Describe the forms of relationship between pressure groups and political parties.
Answer:
In most cases, the relationship between parties and interest or movement groups
is not so direct. They often take positions that are opposed to each other. Yet
they are in dialogue and negotiation. Movement groups have raised new issues
that have been taken up by political parties. Most of the new leadership of
political parties comes from interest or movement groups.
Question 3.
Explain, how the activities of pressure groups are useful in the functioning of a
democratic government.
Answer:
The activities of pressure groups are useful in the functioning of a democratic
government in the following ways :

1. Deepens democracy and counter undue influence on the
government : Sometime rich and powerful put pressure on the
government to form a policy or take a decision in their interest. In such
situations pressure groups can counter such move by putting pressure
on the government to take a decision in the interest of ordinary citizens.
To put pressure on the government in public interest is good and it
strengthens democracy.
2. Sectional groups and balance of power : Even sectional interest groups
play a valuable role. As there are different sectional groups, no one can
achieve dominance over society. If one group brings pressure on
government to make policies in its favour, another will bring counter
pressure not to make policies in the way the first group desires. Thus,
different sectional interest groups help the government to maintain a
balance of power and accommodation of conflicting interests.
Question 4.
What is a pressure group ? Give a few examples.
Answer:
Pressure groups are organizations that attempt to influence government policies.
But unlike political parties, pressure groups do not aim to directly control or
share political power. These organizations are formed when people with
common occupation, interests, aspirations, or opinions come together in order to
achieve a common objective.

The struggle in Nepal was called a movement for democracy. We often hear the
word people’s movement to describe many forms of collective action: Narmada
Bachao Andolan, Movement for Right to Information, Anti-liquor Movement,
Women’s Movement, Environmental Movement.
Question 5.
What is the difference between a pressure group and a political party ?
Answer:
A pressure group is an organised Or unorganised body that tries to promote its
interests. They fight and try to achieve a common objective. They do not take
part in competitive politics but try to influence the government by different
means.
On the other hand, political parties take direct participation in competitive
politics. They contest elections in order to win majority and form government.
Their aim is to achieve political power. They have more than one interest. They
have their own ideology and have their own way of achieving their aim.
Question 6.
Organisations that undertake activities to promote the interests of specific social
sections such as workers, employees, teachers and lawyers are
called …………….. groups.
Answer:
interest

Question 7.
Which among the following is the special feature that distinguishes a pressure
group from a political
party ?
(a) Parties take political stances, while pressure groups do not bother about
political issues.
(b) Pressure groups are confined to a few people, while parties involve larger
number of people.
(c) Pressure groups do not seek to get into power, while political parties do.
(d) Pressure groups do not seek to mobilise people, while parties do.
Answer:
(c) Pressure groups do not seek to get into power, while political parties do.
Question 8.
Match List I (organisations and struggles) with List II and select the correct
…………. answer using the codes given below the lists :
List I List II
1. Organisations that seek to promote the interests of a particular section or group A. Movement
2. Organisations that seek to promote common interest B. Political parties

3. Struggles launched for the resolution of a social problem with or without an

C. Sectional intere
organisational structure
4. Organisations that mobilise people with a view to win political power D. Public interest g
1 2 3
(a) C D B
(b) c D A
(c) D C B
(d) B C D
Answer:
(b) C, D, A, B.

Question 9.
Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the codes given
below the lists :
List I List II
1. Pressure group A. Narmada Bachao Andolan
2. Long term movement B. Asom Gana Parishad
3. Single issue movement C. Women’s Movement
4. Political party D. Fertiliser Dealers’Association
1 2 3
(a) D C A

(b) B A D
(c) C D B
(d) B D C
Answer:
(a) D, C,A, B.
Question 10.
Consider the following statements about pressure groups and parties :
A. Pressure groups are an organized expression of the interests and views of
specific social sections.
B. Pressure groups take positions on political issues.
c. All pressure groups are political parties.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
(a) A, B and C
(b) A and B
(c) B and C
(d) A and C
Answer:
(b) A and B

Question 11.
Mewat is one of the most backward areas in Haryana. It used to be a part of
district Gurgaon and Faridabad. The people of Mewat felt that the area will get
better attention if it were to become a separate district. But political parties were
indifferent to this sentiment. The demand for a separate district was raised by
Mewat Educational and Social Organisation and Mewat Saksharta Samiti in
1996. Later Mewat Vikas Sabha was founded in 2000 and carried out a series of
public awareness campaigns. This forced both the major parties, Congress and
the Indian National Lok Dal, to announce their support for the new district
before the assembly elections held in February 2005. The new district came into
existence in July 2005. In this example, what is the relationship that you observe
among movement, political parties, and the government? Can you think of an
example that shows a relationship different from this one?
Answer:
It was a movement that was supported by different organizations viz., Mewat
Educational and Social Organisation, Mewat Saksharta Samiti, and Mewat
Vikas Sabha. The awareness campaigns started by Mewat Vikas Sabha forced
two major parties, Congress and the Indian National Lok Dal to support them.
Generally, movements are started against the policies of the government. In the
present case, the government of the Indian National Lok Dal was in power and
it also supported the demand for the new district in view of coming elections in
the state. None of the party wanted to go against the demands of the people. As
Congress won the election in 2005 and had supported the movement, the new
district came into existence in July 2005.

Thus, this movement was different from other movements. In other movements
such as Narmada Bachao Andolan, different organizations were against the
policy of the government regarding the construction of big dams. In such a
movement, the government is not a party to the movement.
Political parties
Question 1.
State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.
Answer:
Basically, the functions of political’parties are to fill political offices and
exercise political power. This is done by performing the following functions as
mentioned below :

(1) Contest elections : In democracies, elections are contested by the political
parties by putting up their candidates. The candidates are selected in different
ways. For example in USA, members and supporters of a party choose their
candidates. In India, top party leaders choose candidates for contesting
elections.
(2) Put forward different policies and programmes : Political parties have their
own ideologies and programmes. These are put forward before the voters at the
time of elections in the form of a manifesto. A. party weighs different views and
takes a basic position about policy matters and a government takes its decisions
accordingly.
(3) Role in making laws for a country : Laws are passed according to the
directions of the ruling party or alliance in case of a coalition government.
Members of political party vote in the legislature according to the decision of
the party, irrespective of their personal opinions.
(4) Formation of governments : Party or group of parties that gets majority in
the legislature forms and runs the government. In a parliamentary democracy,
this function is so important that government is known by the name of the Party
e., Congress or BJP government etc. Generally big policy decisions are taken by
the political executive and the government is run accordingly.
(5) Role of opposition : Those parties that lose in the elections play the role of
opposition to the government. They voice their views and criticise government

for its failure or wrong policies. They do this by raising various type of motions
in the legislature or by asking questions.
(6) Role in shaping public opinion : Political parties raise and highlight different
issues of public importance. Political parties have links with pressure groups
which influence the policies of the government. Many pressure groups are the
extensions of political parties. Movements are also launched by the political
parties in support of demands of public interest.
(7) Access to government machinery and welfare schemes : Ordinary citizens
approach local party leaders about their demands and grievances. They get
information about government policies from them. For an ordinary citizen it is
easy to approach a local party leader than a government officer. They feel close
to parties even when they do not fully trust them. Parties have to be responsive
to people’s needs and demands. Otherwise people can reject these parties the
next elections.
Question 2.
What are the various challenges faced by political parties ?
Answer:
Political parties play an important role in a democracy. So it is natural for the
people to blame parties for its failures to perform their functions well. Popular
dissatisfaction and criticism has focussed on various problems in the working of
political parties. These are as mentioned below :

(1) Lack of internal democracy : There is lack of internal democracy within
parties. For example organisational elections are not held regularly. Most of the
decisions are taken by the President or top leaders in the party. Ordinary
members do not have any say in the decision making process of the party.
Sometimes, those who disagree with the leadership find it difficult to continue
in the party. More than loyalty to party principles and policies, personal loyalty
to the leader becomes more important. As a result of it, there is tendency
towards the concentration of power in one or few leaders at the top.
(2) Dynastic succession : Family members pr people more close to top leaders
are favoured at the time of granting tickets for contesting elections. Sometimes
deserving members are denied tickets. Political parties do not practice open and
transparent procedures. Top positions such as President or General Secretary are
always controlled by members of one family. This is unfair to the other
members of the party. It is also bad for democracy because people without
adequate experience come to occupy the top positions in the party. This
tendency is present in some measure all over the world, including in some of the
older democracies.
(3) Use of money and muscle power : Political parties want to win elections at
all costs. Parties use money power to purchase votes and finance high pitched
campaigns. Rich candidates are nominated so that they may win elections. Not
only this muscle power is also used during elections. It is used to coerce voters,
capture booths and threaten opposition campaign. In some cases, political
parties support and select criminals who can win elections. Democrats all over

the world are worried about the increasing role of rich people and criminals in
democratic politics.
(4) Hardly any meaningful choice : In order to offer meaningful choice parties
must be significantly different. But in recent years there has been a decline in
the ideological differences among parties in most parts of the world. For
example the difference between the Labour Party and the Conservative Party in
Britain is reduced. In our country too, the differences among all the major
parties on the economic policies have reduced.People have no option available
to them. Sometimes people cannot even elect very different leaders either,
because the same set of leaders keep shifting from one party to another.
Question 3.
Suggest some reforms to strengthen parties so that they perform their functions
well.
Answer:
Following reforms are suggested to strengthen political parties so that they
perform their functions well :
(1) Regulate the internal affairs of political parties : A law should be made to
regulate internal affairs of political parties. Basic principle of election from
lower tier to higher level should be followed. Open elections to the higher posts
should be held. The parties should maintain a register of its members. They
should follow the party constitution and have an independent authority to act as
a judge in case of party disputes.

(2) Representation to women candidates : It should be made mandatory for the
political parties to give one-third tickets to women candidates. They should be
given adequate representation in the decision making bodies.
(3) State funding of elections : In order to put curb on money power, there
should be state funding of elections e., the government should give parties
money to support their election expenses. This support could be given in kind
such as petrol, paper and telephone. It could be given in cash, on the basis of the
votes secured by the party in the last election.There is, however, very little
chance of accepting above suggestions by the political parties. Most of the
parties find ways to cheat the laws. Besides, political parties will not agree to
pass a law that is not liked by them. In such circumstance there are two other
ways, as mentioned below to reform political parties.
Pressure by people :
 People can also put pressure on political parties through petitions,
publicity and agitations. Such pressure may make political parties more
serious about reforms.
 People should join political parties large number so that they may
improve the working of political parties being members of that party. It
is easier to reform a party from within rather than from outside.
Question 4.
What is a political party ?

Answer:
A political party is a group of people who come together to contest elections
and hold power in the government. They agree on some policies and
programmes for the society with a view to promote the collective good. A
political party, therefore, possesses features like an organisation, definite views
on political issues, a well formulated line of action, a will and desire to
implement the proclaimed policies.
Question 5.
What are the characteristics of a political party ?
Answer:
The characteristics of a political party are as given below :
1. A political party is an organised body. Each party has its organisation.
2. It has definite views on various issues.
3. It has a general ideological identity. For example, a party may be a leftist
or rightist party.
4. It represents a part of society. For example, a party may represent the
capitalists, the poor, the upper class or a lower class. A party, therefore,
may represent a particular part of a society.
5. A party has three components i.e., the leaders, the active members and
the followers.
Question 6.
A group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the

government is called a_____________ .
Answer:
political party
Question 7.
Match List I (organisations and struggles) with List II and select the correct
answer using the codes given below the lists :
List I List II
1. Congress Party A. National Democratic Alliance
2. Bharatiya Janata Party B. State party
3. Communist Party of India (Marxist) C. United Progressive Alliance
4. Telugu Desam Party D. Left Front

1 2 3
(a) C A B
(b) C D A
(c) c A D
(d) D C A
Answer:
(c) C, A, D, B.
Question 8.
Who among the following is the founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party ?
1. Kanshi Ram Sahu Maharaj
2. B.R.Ambedker D. JyotibaPhule
Answer:
(A) Kanshi Ram. ‘

Question 9.
What is the guiding philosophy of the Bharatiya Janata Party ?
1. Bahujan Samaj B. Revolutionary democracy
2. Integral humanism D. Modernity
Answer:
(C) Integral humanism.
Question 10.
Consider the following statements on parties :
1. Political parties do not enjoy much trust among the people.
2. Parties are often rocked by scandals involving top party leaders.
3. Parties are not necessary to run governments.
Which of the statements given above are correct ?
(a) A, B and C
(b) A and B
(c) B and C
(d) A and C
Answer:
(b) A and B.
Question 11.
Read the following passage and answer the questions given below : Muhammad

Yunus is a famous economist of Bangladesh. He received several international
honours for his efforts to promote economic and social development for the
benefit of the poor. He and the Grameen Bank he started jointly, received the
Nobel Peace Prize for the 2006. In February 2007, he decided to launch a
political party and contest in the parliamentary elections. His objective was to
foster proper leadership, good governance and build a new Bangladesh. He felt
that only a political party different from the traditional ones would bring about
new political culture. His party would be democratic from the grassroots level.
The launching of the new party, called Nagarik Shakti (Citizens’ Power), has
caused a stir among the Bangladeshis. While many welcomed his decision,
some did not like it. “Now I think Bangladesh will have a chance to choose
between good and bad and eventually have a good government”, said Shahedul
Islam, a government official. “That government, we hope, would not only keep
itself away from corruption but also make fighting corruption and black money
a top priority.”
But leaders of traditional political parties who dominated the country’s politics
for decades were apprehensive. “There was no debate (over him) winning the
Nobel, but politics is different – very challenging and often controversial”, said
a senior leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Some others were highly
critical. They asked why he was rushing into politics. “Is he being planted in
politics by mentors from outside the country”, asked one political observer.

(a) Do you think Yunus made a right decision to float a new political party ?
(b) Do you agree with the statements and fears expressed by various people ?
(c) How do you want this new party organised to make it different from other
parties ?
(d) If you were the one to begin this political party how would you defend it ?
Answer:
(a) Yunus made a right decision to float a new political party because in a
democracy every citizen has a right to form political party or join a political
party of his own choice. There is nothing wrong in it. Secondly, Yunus is a
Nobel Peace Prize winner and is known in Bangladesh as well as by people all
over the world. He has his own political ideas. He has set an example by setting
up the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh. People may support him and enable him
to form a good government and build a new Bangladesh of his dreams.
(b) I do not agree with the statements and fears expressed by various people
because these are baseless. No doubt, politics is different from other fields but
Yunus has achieved success by establishing Grameen Bank for the ,.welfare of
the people. After all democracy is also for the welfare of the people. The
statements and fears are from those people who may lose power in future.
(c) The new party should be organised on democratic lines. Organisational
elections should be held regularly. There should be transparency in the working
of the party. Due representation should be given to all sections of the society
including women and minorities.

(d) I would defend the formation of the party on the ground that in a democracy,
every citizen has a right to join or form a political party of his choice.
outcome of democracy
question 1.
How does democracy produce an accountable, responsive and legitimate
government ?
Answer:
Democracy produces an accountable, responsive and legitimate government in
the ways as mentioned below :
(1) Accountability : In a democracy, decision-making process is based on norms
and procedures. A citizen may know about the procedure process followed in
the decision-making. It is known as transparency. Thus the government is
accountable to the people. The government can develop mechanisms for citizens
to hold the government accountable to the people. In India Right to Information
is an example of this process. In non-democratic government there is no such
accountability. However over all democratic governments do not have a very
good record .when it comes to sharing information with citizens. But whatever

be the case it can be said that the democratic governments are better than non-
democratic regimes.
(2) Responsive government : Generally it is expected from a democratic
government that it is attentive to the needs and demands of the people and is
largely free of corruption. But in practice it is not so. Democracies often
frustrate the needs of the people and often ignore the demands of a majority of
its population. So it is not fully responsive. There are cases of corruption in
democratic countries. At the same time, there is nothing to show that non-
democratic government are less corrupt or more sensitive to the people.
(3) Legitimate government : In this respect democracy is better than other non-
democratic governments. It is people’s own government. People wish to be
ruled by representatives elected by them. They also believe that democracy is
suitable for their country.
Thus there is an overwhelming support for the idea of democracy all over the
world. In addition to this democracy’s ability to generate its own support is
itself an outcome that cannot he ignored.
Question 2.
What are the conditions under which democracies accommodate social
diversities ?
Answer:
Democracies accommodate social diversities in the ways as mentioned below :

1. Democracies usually develop a procedure to conduct their competition.
The Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional differences
and cultural diversities. For example, the constitution prescribes the
number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be equal in the
central government as well as Brussel’s government.
2. Differences must be respected and there should be mechanism to
negotiate differences. Democracy is best suited to reduce this outcome.
Ability to handle social differences, divisions and conflicts is possible
only in democracies. But for this democracy must fulfill two conditions
as mentioned below :
3. The majority always needs to work with the minority so that
governments function to represent the general view.
4. Rule by majority should not become rule by majority community in
terms of religion, or race or linguistic group. Democracy remains
democracy only as long as every citizen has a chance of being in
majority at some point of time.
Question 3.
Give arguments to support or oppose the following assertions :
(a) Industrialised countries can afford democracy but the poor need dictatorship
to become rich.
(b) Democracy can’t reduce inequality of incomes between different citizens.
(c) Government in poor countries should spend less on poverty reduction,
health, education and spend more on industries and infrastructure.
(d) In democracy, all citizens have one vote, which means that there is absence

of any domination and conflict.
Answer:
(a) It is not correct.
 No doubt, a lot of expenditure is incurred on elections in a democracy
but regular, fair and free elections make democracy a popular form of
government.
 Again to say that poor need dictatorship to become rich is not correct.
For example, in African countries, where military dictatorships have
been established, the poor have not become rich.
 In Pakistan and Bangladesh too, the condition of the poor is far from
satisfactory.
 A poor country can be a democratic country such as India where
democracy has been successful since its independence.
(b) It is correct to state that democracy cannot reduce inequality of incomes
between different citizens. Democracy provides political equality e., right to
vote and other rights but ultra-rich people enjoy a highly disproportionate share
of wealth and incomes. Not only this their share in the total income of the
country has been increasing. On the other hand poor are becoming poorer and
they find it difficult to meet their basic needs of life i.e., food, clothing and
shelter etc.
Thus in actual life the democracies have not been successful in reducing
economic inequalities. For example in India, the poor constitute a large

population of our voters and no party will like to lose their votes. Yet
democratically elected governments do not address the question of poverty
satisfactorily. The result is that in some countries the situation is very bad. For
example in Bangladesh, more than half of its population lives in poverty. People
in several poor countries are now dependent on the rich countries even for food
supplies.
(c) I do not agree with the view that the government in poor countries should
spend less on poverty reduction, health, education and spend more on industries
and infrastructure. The governments should spend more on poverty reduction,
health and education due to the reasons as mentioned below :
1. The poverty eradication programmes help the poor directly. For example
poverty alleviation programmes such as NREGA help them directly.
2. The opening of health centers will enable the poor to get health facilities
in their localities. A healthy person can earn more and thus, in turn, will
improve their standard of living.
3. Education too will improve the condition of the poor. An educated
person i.e., engineer, doctor, lawyer, IT professional not only can earn
more but also help in improving the economy of the country.
4. On the other hand if more money is spent on industries and
infrastructure, it may help the industrialists more than the poor.
(d) It is correct to say that in democracy, all citizens have one vote, which
means that there is absence of any domination and conflict. In democracy under

universal adult franchise all citizens have right to vote without any
discrimination on account of caste, creed and religion. In elections number is
important. A candidate who secures maximum votes, gets elected. Rich or poor
who ever has voted for him does not matter. Thus, there is no domination of
upper class voters over the lower class voters.
Question 4.
Identify the challenges to democracy in the following descriptions. Also suggest
policy/institutional mechanism to deepen democracy in the given situations :
(a) Following a High Court directive a temple in Orissa that had separate entry
doors for dalits and non-dalits allowed entry for all from the same door.
(b) A large number of farmers are committing suicide in different states of
India.
(c) Following allegation of killing of three civilians in Gandwara in a fake
encounter by Jammu and Kashmir police, an enquiry has been ordered.
Ans.
(a) Generally, we find in a democracy various social divisions based on caste
which lead to tensions. The present challenge relates to social diversity. The
High Court has ordered entry for all from the same door instead of having
separate doors for dalits and non-dalits earlier. To deepen democracy there
should be law banning discrimination on account of caste, religion or other
factors.
(b) There is a challenge of poverty. A large number of farmers are committing
suicide in different states of India due to the following factors :

1. Unable to pay loan that has been taken by them due to bad harvest due to
lack of rain or irrigation facilities.
2. Non-availability of government help at the time of necessity.
In such situation, the government should set up an organisation to look
after the interests of the farmers. They should be given financial help or
loans at nominal rate of interest. Irrigation and other facilities should be
provided to them.
(c) Dignity and freedom of the citizens has been challenged in the present case.
Generally, cases of fake encounters are reported in the newspapers. In a
democracy such incidents should not take place because the passion for respect
and freedom are the basis of a democracy. All individuals are equal.
To avoid such fake encounters there should be transparency in the working of
the government departments including police department. The culprits should
be punished even if they occupy a higher post in any government department.
Question 5.
In the context of democracies, which of the following ideas is correct –
democracies have successfully eliminated :
A. conflicts among people.
B. economic inequalities among people.
C. differences of opinion about how marginalised sections are to be treated
D. the idea of political inequality
Answer:
(D) the idea of political inequality.

Question 6.
In the context of assessing democracy which among the following is odd one
out. Democracies need to ensure :
A. free and fair elections.
B. dignity of the individual,
C. majority rule.
D. equal treatment before law.
Answer:
(D) equal treatment before law.
Question 7.
Studies on political and social inequalities in democracy show that
A. democracy and development go together.
B. inequalities exist in democracies.
C. inequalities do not exist under dictatorship.
D. dictatorship is better than democracy.
Answer:
(B) inequalities exist in democracies.
Question 8.
Read the passage below :
Nannu is a daily wage earner. He lives in Welcome Mazdoor Colony, a slum
habitation in East Delhi. He lost his ration card and applied for a duplicate one
in January 2004. He made several rounds to the local Food and Civil Supplies

office for the next three months. But the clerks and officials would not even
look at him, leave alone do his job or bother to tell him the status of his
application. Ultimately, he filed an application under the Right to Information
Act asking for the daily progress made on his application, names of the officials,
who were supposed to act on his application and what action would be taken
against these officials for their inaction. Within a week of filing application
under the Right to Information Act, he was visited by an inspector from the
Food Department, who informed him that the card had been made and he could
collect it from the office. When Nannu went to collect his card next day, he was
given a very warm treatment by the Food and Supply Officer (FSO), who is the
head of a Circle. The FSO offered him tea and requested him to withdraw his
application under the Right to Information, since his work had already been
done.
What does Nannu’s example show ? What impact did Nannu’s action have on
officials ? Ask your parents their experiences when they approach government
officials to attend to their problems.
Ans.
(a) Nannu’s example shows that ordinary people should be aware of their rights.
They should exercise those rights without any fear as has been done by Nannu.
(b) Nannu’s action has a significant effect on the officials who not only made
his ration card but also offered him a cup of tea at the office of the Food and
Supply Officer. He was given proper respect. However, the Food and Supply

Officer requested him to withdraw his application because his ration card had
been prepared.
(c) Generally, the government officials do not bother about the requests of the
poor and disadvantaged people. Such people as Nannu go on visiting
government offices without any success. Their problems are not solved. But
now with the introduction of Right to Information, things would change. There
will be more efficiency and transparency in the functioning of the government
department

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Prepared by Rafiq Sir writer and consultant at Educreation publishing

What are the different forms of power-sharing in modern democracies? Give an

example of each of these.

In a democracy, power is shared among the different organs of the government

power sharing, because it allows different organs of the government placed at

the same level to exercise different powers.

local self government. For village. (iii) Power-sharing among

different social groups:

government’ in Belgium is a good example of this arrangement.

(iv) Power-sharing among political parties and pressure groups, : In a

Prepared by Rafiq Sir masters in pol-science /English Page 1

example from the Indian context.

(1) Prudential reason:

 Power-sharing is desirable because it helps to reduce the possibility

of conflict between social groups,

 conflict often leads to violence and political instability, power-

sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order,

 power sharing prevents majority community to impose its will on

minority which undermines the unity of the nation

often brings ruin to the majority as well.

(2) Moral reason:

 It upholds the spirit of democracy in a truly democratic setup in India the

 A legitimate government is one where citizens participate and acquire a

power-sharing as valuable. In India, people elect their representatives

Thomman — Power sharing is necessary only in societies which have religious,

linguistic or ethnic divisions.

Ouseph — Every society needs some form of power-sharing even if it is small

or does not have social divisions.

not have social divisions because :

to all the members of the country.

irrespective of the size of the country.

measure is in keeping with the spirit of Belgium’s power-sharing arrangements?

Give your reasons in about 50 words.

spirit of Belgium’s power sharing arrangements. As 59 per cent of the

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the regional differences and cultural diversities. It is against the spirit of

accommodating every linguistic group, and creating a right environment for

possible division of the community on linguistic lines.

power sharing offered in this :

belongs in a democracy – in the hands of the people. Giving power to

Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption and increase administrative

efficiency. When people participate in the planning and implementation of

developmental schemes, they would naturally exercise greater control over

Raj will strengthen the foundations of our democracy.”

“Giving power to Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption and increase

administrative efficiency. When people participate in the planning and

implementation of developmental schemes, they would naturally exercise

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middlemen. Thus, Panchayati Raj will strengthen the foundations of our

and political stability will be established. As a result of it there will be peace

and the village may make progress in different fields.

answer using the codes given below. Power-sharing :

A. reduces conflict among different communities.

B. decreases the possibility of arbitrariness.

C. delays the decision-making process.

E. increases instability and divisiveness.

F. promotes people’s participation in government.

G. undermines the unity of a country.

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Consider the following statements about power-sharing arrangements in

Belgium and Sri Lanka :

A. In Belgium, the Dutch-speaking majority of people tried to impose their

domi¬nation on the minority French-speaking community.

of the Sinhala-speaking majority.