Civics Chapter 9 - Struggle for Equality

Q.1What do you think is meant by the expression ‘power over the ballot box’? Discuss.

Solution.
Power over the ballot box means that all adults in India have the equal right to vote
during elections. Through this power people choose their representative and drive the
government indirectly.

2. What issue is Tawa Matsya Sangh (TMS) fighting for?

Solution.
The Tawa Matsya Sangh – a federation of Fisherworker’s cooperatives – an
organisation fighting for the rights of the displaced forest dwellers of the Satpura forest
in Madhya Pradesh.

The newly formed Tawa Matsya Sangh (TMS) was demanding their right to continue
fishing in the Tawa reservoir for their livelihood.

3. Why did the villagers set up this organisation?

Solution.
The villagers set up this organisation to save their livelihood. Through this organisation,
they wanted to highlight the injustice meted out to them by the government.

4. What role does the Constitution play in peoples struggle for equality?
Solution.
Constitution plays a significant role in people’s struggle for equality. It recognises the
equality of all persons. It ensures that fair treatment is given to all in the country. It
gives equal rights to all for law and justice.

5. State the main reasons why people do not have equality.

Answer:
1.Poverty.
2.Lack of resources.
3.Discrimination on the basis of religion, caste and sex.
4.Lack of dignity and respect for certain communities.
6. Describe creative expression against inequality.
Answer:
Creative Expression against Inequality

 Some people join protest movements to fight inequality.

 At the same time others use their pen, or their voice, or their ability to dance
and draw attention to issues of inequality.
 Writers, singers, dancers and artists have also been very active in the fight
against inequality.
 Often poems, songs and stories also inspire us and make us believe
strongly in an issue and influence our efforts to correct the situation.