Get summaries, questions, answers, solutions, notes, extras, PDF and guide of Class 11 (first year) Political Science textbook, chapter 3 Election and Representation, which is part of the syllabus of students studying under AHSEC/ASSEB (Assam Board). These solutions, however, should only be treated as references and can be modified/changed.
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Summary
Chapter 3 focuses on the concepts of election and representation, essential elements of a democratic government. It starts by discussing the importance of the electorate, the basis of democracy. In modern representative democracies, elected representatives govern, with power vested in the people who choose their leaders through elections.
The electorate, those who have the right to vote, plays a crucial role in electing representatives and assessing the government’s performance. The “first-past-the-post” system is described, where the candidate with the most votes wins, even without an absolute majority.
Universal adult franchise, based on equality, ensures all adult citizens have the right to vote, regardless of religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, or color. Certain groups, like minors, individuals with unsound minds, and serious criminals, are excluded from voting. The principle asserts that any artificial restriction on voting rights is a violation.
The merits of universal adult franchise include promoting democracy, developing individual personalities through political participation, creating general satisfaction among the populace, recognizing people’s supremacy, providing mass political education, and protecting minority rights and civil liberties. However, it has drawbacks, such as the potential for electing unworthy representatives, political corruption, the supposed harm of women’s suffrage, injustice to property owners, misuse of votes, slow progress, opportunism in politics, and wastage of time and money.
Elections are crucial in a democracy, allowing people to choose their representatives, maintain control over the government, and ensure accountability. There are two types of elections: direct and indirect. Direct elections, where voters directly choose representatives, are seen as more democratic and educative. Indirect elections, where elected representatives choose other officials, are considered better for selecting capable candidates and curbing party politics’ evils but are criticized for being undemocratic and prone to corruption.
Political parties are vital in representative democracies, organizing citizens with shared political views and seeking to control the government. The chapter discusses the necessity of political parties for democracy, their role in shaping public opinion, and the need for a healthy party system.
The chapter also highlights the importance of free and fair elections and the roles of the Election Commission of India. The Election Commission is responsible for preparing and maintaining voter lists, conducting elections, delimiting constituencies, setting election programs, and advising the President and Governors on electoral matters. The need for electoral reforms to address issues like money power, criminalization of politics, and low voter participation is emphasized.
Video tutorial
Essay Type
1. Define Adult Suffrage. Give the arguments in favour of it.
Answer: By universal adult suffrage, we mean a system whereby all adult nationals of a country are entitled to vote. Under this system, people have the right to participate in elections without any discrimination based on religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, or colour of skin.
The principle of universal adult suffrage has certain exceptions. Certain categories of persons, such as minors, those of unsound mind, lepers, traitors, heinous criminals, and aliens, may be deprived of the right to vote. The exclusion of such persons does not violate the principle of universal adult franchise. Any artificial and unreasonable qualification laid down for the enjoyment of franchise will violate the principle of universal adult franchise. For example, in countries like South Africa and Southern Rhodesia, there is discrimination between whites and non-whites based on colour. This is against the doctrine of universal adult suffrage.
With the growth of democracy, all artificial restrictions on the right to vote have been removed. Even totalitarian governments today recognise the importance of universal adult franchise. Recognition of the principle of universal adult suffrage has become a sign of a civilised country. A state cannot claim to be progressive and forward if it does not give suffrage to its citizens on the principle of adult suffrage.
2. Give the arguments for and against Universal Adult Franchise.
Answer: Merits: Opinion is sharply divided on the question of universal adult franchise. The merit of such a system may be pointed out as below:
- Stands for Democracy: The principle of universal adult franchise stands for full democracy. Democracy is based on equality. It recognises the principle of equality while granting voting rights. Universal adult suffrage is in accordance with the working of a democratic system.
- Develops Personality: It allows an individual to take part in the political process. This is essential for the development of one’s personality. His growth of personality will be stunted if he is not given this right.
- General Satisfaction: It leads to the creation of general satisfaction. People are satisfied because they become a part and parcel of the government by exercising the franchise. They can show the force of their will in the next election. They need not state a violent revolution for the realisation of their goals.
- Supremacy of the People: This principle recognises the supremacy of the people. It shows that real power is vested in the people. It gives concrete proof of the sovereignty of the people.
- Mass Education: The principle of universal adult franchise acts as a means of mass education. By exercising their franchise, people become politically conscious. Voters get the scope to train themselves politically.
- Inclusion of All: Under this principle, the political importance of every adult citizen is recognised by the state. It is said that what concerns all should be decided by all. Everyone is given a share in the political system by being allowed to enjoy the franchise.
- Minority Rights Protected: This system enables minorities to protect their rights. Nobody can displease the minorities for fear of losing support. Thus, minorities are in a position to protect their rights.
- Protection of Civil Liberties: If the people of a country are granted adult franchise, they are in a better position to protect their civil liberties. They may criticise their representatives and ultimately withdraw support in the next election.
- Difficulties of Limited Franchise: The principle of universal adult suffrage has removed the difficulties of limited suffrage. Universal adult suffrage is considered better than limited suffrage. In the case of granting limited franchise, there is partiality, corruption, and favouritism.
Demerits: Universal adult suffrage has also its drawbacks. It has been criticised by several eminent writers like Macaulay, Lecky, Sir Henry Maine, Bluntschli, and J. S. Mill. Let us now discuss the demerits of universal adult suffrage:
- Merit Ignored: Universal suffrage is likely to put the wrong people in power. There is the likelihood of power falling into the wrong hands. Unworthy people in power will harm the general interests of the people. It stands on the principle of inequality of merit. The merit of an individual is not taken into consideration, resulting in ignorant and illiterate people may not be in a position to exercise the right to vote properly. It may lead to the birth of an inefficient and incompetent government. Merit is ignored completely.
- Rule of Ignorance: It leads to the rule of ignorance. Very often success in elections comes to those who are very shrewd in their practical life. Really good people are driven out by the force of bad elements. Hence, a country is ruled by ignorants.
- Political Corruption: Adoption of the principle of universal adult suffrage may lead to political corruption. Many people do not understand the value of their vote: Unscrupulous politicians go to the extent of purchasing votes. Black-money spoils the political atmosphere.
- Vote to Women Harmful: Some critics of universal suffrage are against woman suffrage. According to them, a vote to a woman is harmful. If they are given this right, their attention will be diverted from the affairs of the house to the affairs of the state.
- Injustice to Property-owners: It is argued that universal suffrage does injustice to property owners. Mill says, “Those who pay no taxes, disposing by their votes of other people’s money, have every motive to be lavish and none to economise.” So, J. S. Mill was of the view that only property-owners should be allowed to vote.
- Misuse of Vote: A vote in the hands of a wrong man may be a source of harm and mischief. Universal franchise in a backward country gives ample scope for mischief, bribery, and corruption.
- Slow Progress: Ignorant people are likely to send incompetent people to power. When these people are in power, there can be hardly any progress in the state.
- Opportunism in Politics: It leads to the free flow of opportunism in politics. Crafty leaders play on the whims and sentiments of the voters and then manage to win the polls.
- Wastage of Time and Money: When universal franchise is allowed there is much wastage of time, money, and energy. What can be decided by a few competent people is made open to the masses. The real will of the people is subverted by the selfish will of the many. Mill said, “Universal teaching must precede universal enfranchisement.”
3. Write a note on Universal Adult Suffrage.
Answer: By universal adult suffrage, we mean a system whereby all adult nationals of a country are entitled to vote. Under this system, people have the right to participate in elections without any discrimination based on religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, or colour of skin.
The principle of universal adult suffrage has certain exceptions. Certain categories of persons, such as minors, those of unsound mind, lepers, traitors, heinous criminals, and aliens, may be deprived of the right to vote. The exclusion of such persons does not violate the principle of universal adult franchise. Any artificial and unreasonable qualification laid down for the enjoyment of franchise will violate the principle of universal adult franchise. For example, in countries like South Africa and Southern Rhodesia, there is discrimination between whites and non-whites based on colour. This is against the doctrine of universal adult suffrage.
With the growth of democracy, all artificial restrictions on the right to vote have been removed. Even totalitarian governments today recognise the importance of universal adult franchise. Recognition of the principle of universal adult suffrage has become a sign of a civilised country. A state cannot claim to be progressive and forward if it does not give suffrage to its citizens on the principle of adult suffrage.
4. What do you mean by Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: By universal adult suffrage, we mean a system whereby all adult nationals of a country are entitled to vote. Under this system, people have the right to participate in elections without any discrimination based on religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, or colour of skin.
5. What is the minimum age of a voter in India?
Answer: In India, all adult citizens who are 18 years or above have the franchise.
6. Give four suggestions for Electoral Reforms in India.
Answer:
- The role of money power and muscle power in elections should be checked through preventive measures and voter awareness.
- Election campaigns should be closely monitored, keeping them healthy without undue restrictions.
- Issuing identity cards with photographs to all voters can be a distinctive reform in the Indian election system.
- To increase the role of women, who constitute nearly 50% of the electorate and yet get less than 10% of seats in legislatures and Parliament, 33% reservation of seats for women in elections for Parliament and State Legislatures should be provided.
7. Discuss the merits and demerits of direct election.
Answer: Merits:
- The voters have effective control over their representatives. The representatives cannot ignore the voters. They have to keep in mind the wishes of their constituents.
- There is direct contact between the voters and their representatives. They know each other very well. This is essential for the success of democracy.
- Direct election promotes a sense of public spirit. It creates a sense of active participation in public affairs among voters. It also sharpens their political intelligence.
- Direct election is of great educative value. Voters learn a lot about their political system by taking part in elections and coming in contact with various political parties.
- It is democratic in principle. In this system, the will of the voters remains paramount.
Demerits:
- It regards all voters as equally intelligent. It is not correct. All voters are not capable of exercising their votes properly.
- Direct election involves a large number of voters. Election campaigns are conducted like war campaigns. In this election, passion dominates over reason.
- Really good people do not want to offer themselves as candidates as they do not like this populist drama. They prefer to stay away from the arena of election politics.
- It is very expensive. A huge amount of money is spent on electioneering.
- It becomes difficult for voters to select the right person as they have no scope to know them personally.
8. What are the merits and demerits of indirect election?
Answer: Merits:
- Better candidates can be elected under this system. The electoral college is composed of capable persons. They are better than ordinary voters. Hence, their choice is supposed to be better.
- The evils of the party system are curbed to a considerable extent in indirect elections.
- It is not possible to exercise influence over the voters because they are intelligent people.
- This system is better for a country inhabited by illiterate people. The members of the electoral college will be better than ordinary voters.
- It is less expensive. A small number of people will take part in the real election.
Demerits:
- The people feel dissatisfied. It is undemocratic.
- The people take no interest in the management of their affairs as they are not directly involved in them.
- There are more chances of corruption in this system. It becomes easy to purchase votes as the number of voters is small.
- This method is complex. It takes more time because the election is held in two stages.
- It is not free from the evils of party politics.
- Voters cast their votes based on party direction. There is little chance of considering the quality of the candidate. Hence, it does not serve the purpose.
9. Discuss the differences between direct and indirect elections.
Answer: When voters choose their representatives by casting votes and entrust these powers they have with them, it is called direct election. In India, the members of the Lok Sabha are directly elected. However, when the voters elect some persons and those elected ones elect someone else, then the election is indirect. Here, the election takes place in two stages. First, the voters elect the electors who constitute the ‘electoral college’. Secondly, this electoral college elects the representative. The election of the President of India is indirect.
10. Explain the defect of election
Answer: The Indian election system has been witnessing the march of criminals and anti-social elements in the electoral process. Several persons with criminal records and several others against whom lawsuits are pending, have been successful in getting elected as MLAs and MPs. The undesirable and unhealthy role of money in elections has been a big drawback of the system. The absence of common platforms and public means for campaigning makes the election contest a very costly, noisy, and disturbing affair that confuses the process of public opinion making on the eve of the elections. The Indian election system has been defective so far as it has not been successful in securing the objectives of increased voters’ participation in elections and returning a fully representative party to power. Since poverty dominates Indian masses, popular participation in elections remains limited. The rich exploit the opportunity to exploit the votes of the poor for getting elected or for helping their ‘pets’ to get elected. The cycle of corruption gets started during elections.
11. What is a constituency? Discuss the merits and demerits of Single member constituency.
Answer: A constituency is a specified area whose voters elect a representative to a legislative body.
Merits of Single member constituency:
- Clear Responsibility: It provides clear responsibility as it is easy to identify the representative responsible for the constituency.
- Direct Link: Establishes a direct link between the representative and the voters, promoting accountability.
- Simplicity: The system is simple to understand and operate, making it accessible for voters.
Demerits of Single member constituency:
- Underrepresentation: Minorities and smaller political groups may remain underrepresented as the winner takes all.
- Wasted Votes: Many votes can be wasted as only the winning candidate’s votes count towards representation.
- Gerrymandering: There is a risk of gerrymandering, where boundaries are manipulated to favour a particular party.
12. Write three merits and two demerits of indirect election.
Answer:
Merits of indirect election:
- Better Candidates: Better candidates can be elected under this system. The electoral college is composed of capable persons. They are better than ordinary voters. Hence, their choice is supposed to be better.
- Curb Party Evils: In indirect election the evils of party system are curbed to a considerable extent.
- Less Influence: It is also not possible to exercise influences upon the voters because they are intelligent people.
Demerits of indirect election:
- Dissatisfaction: The people feel dissatisfied. It is also undemocratic.
- Corruption: Chances of corruption are more in this system. It becomes easy to purchase votes as the number of voters is small.
13. Write the merits and demerits of a multi-member constituency.
Answer:
Merits of a multi-member constituency:
- Representation of Minorities: It allows better representation of minorities and smaller political groups.
- Proportional Representation: Ensures a more proportional representation of the electorate.
- Reduction of Gerrymandering: Reduces the chances of gerrymandering as multiple representatives are elected.
Demerits of a multi-member constituency:
- Complexity: The system can be complex for voters to understand and for officials to administer.
- Diluted Responsibility: It can dilute the responsibility and accountability of individual representatives to their constituents.
14. Explain four merits and four defects of Universal Adult Franchise.
Answer:
Merits of Universal Adult Franchise:
- Stands for Democracy: The principle of universal adult franchise stands for full democracy. Democracy is based on equality. It recognises the principle of equality while granting voting rights. Universal adult suffrage is in accordance with the working of democratic system.
- Develops Personality: It allows an individual to take part in the political process. This is highly essential for the development of one’s personality. His growth of personality will be stunted if he is not given this right.
- General Satisfaction: It leads to the creation of general satisfaction. People are satisfied because they become a part and parcel of the government by exercising franchise. They can show the force of their will in the next election. They need not state a violent revolution for the realisation of their goals.
- Supremacy of the People: This principle recognises the supremacy of the people. It shows that real power is vested in the people. It gives a concrete proof of the sovereignty of the people.
Defects of Universal Adult Franchise:
- Merit Ignored: Universal suffrage is likely to put the wrong people in power. There is the likelihood of power falling into the wrong hands. Unworthy people in power will harm the general interests of the people. It stands on the principle of inequality of merit. Merit of an individual is not taken into consideration, as a result of which ignorant and illiterate people may not be in a position to exercise the right to vote properly. It may lead to the birth of inefficient and incompetent government. Merit is ignored completely.
- Rule of Ignorance: It leads to the rule of ignorance. Very often success in the elections comes to those who are very shrewd in their practical life. Really good people are driven out by force of bad elements. Hence, a country is ruled by ignorants.
- Political Corruption: Adoption of the principle of universal adult suffrage may lead to political corruption. Many of the people do not understand the value of their vote: Unscrupulous politicians go to the extent of purchasing votes. Black-money spoils political atmosphere.
- Vote to Women Harmful: Some critics of universal suffrage are against woman suffrage. According to them vote to woman is harmful. If they are given this right, their attention will be diverted from the affairs of the house to the affairs of the state.
15. Explain Powers and the functions of the Election Commission of India.
Answer: The Election Commission of India has been given wide powers and functions. These include the following main functions:
- To prepare, revise, update and maintain the list of voters for election to the Parliament, State Legislatures, Local Bodies and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To conduct and supervise elections and bye-elections to the Parliament, State Legislature, and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To delimit constituencies for election to the Parliament and to the State Legislature, and to allot the number of seats to each of them.
- To fix the election programme, including dates for nomination and scrutiny of candidates, and date of elections, make arrangements for setting up necessary number of polling booths, lay down procedure for the exercise of secret ballot, appoint adequate number of returning officers and declare results after the proper counting and scrutiny of votes, countermand elections in a constituency where necessary.
- To advise the President or the Governor of the concerned state, as the case may be, regarding all electoral matters, including questions relating to disqualification of members.
- To prepare guidelines for a code of conduct for political parties candidates and voters.
- To fix the limit of election expenses and to examine the accounts of electoral expenditure submitted by the candidates.
- To determine criteria for recognising political parties, and then recognise them and decide their election symbols and allocate time to them for the use of radio and television in order to help them reach out to the people on election issues.
- To prepare a list of ‘free symbols for allotment to independent candidates.
- To settle election disputes and petitions, referred to it by the President or the Governor of a state.
16. Discuss the composition, power and functions of the Election Commission of India.
Answer: The Election Commission of India consists of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two other Election Commissioners. They are appointed for a six-year term or continue till the age of 65, whichever is earlier. The CEC presides over the Election Commission but does not have more powers than the other Election Commissioners. The Constitution ensures the security of the tenure of the CEC and Election Commissioners. The CEC can be removed before the expiry of the term by the President if both Houses of Parliament make such a recommendation with a special majority, which means a 2/3 majority of those present and voting.
The Election Commission of India has been given wide powers and functions. These include the following main functions:
- To prepare, revise, update and maintain the list of voters for election to the Parliament, State Legislatures, Local Bodies and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To conduct and supervise elections and bye-elections to the Parliament, State Legislature, and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To delimit constituencies for election to the Parliament and to the State Legislature, and to allot the number of seats to each of them.
- To fix the election programme, including dates for nomination and scrutiny of candidates, and date of elections, make arrangements for setting up necessary number of polling booths, lay down procedure for the exercise of secret ballot, appoint adequate number of returning officers and declare results after the proper counting and scrutiny of votes, countermand elections in a constituency where necessary.
- To advise the President or the Governor of the concerned state, as the case may be, regarding all electoral matters, including questions relating to disqualification of members.
- To prepare guidelines for a code of conduct for political parties candidates and voters.
- To fix the limit of election expenses and to examine the accounts of electoral expenditure submitted by the candidates.
- To determine criteria for recognising political parties, and then recognise them and decide their election symbols and allocate time to them for the use of radio and television in order to help them reach out to the people on election issues.
- To prepare a list of ‘free symbols for allotment to independent candidates.
- To settle election disputes and petitions, referred to it by the President or the Governor of a state.
17. Explain why we need an independent Election Commission.
Answer: The Election Commission of India is an independent constitutional body vested with the powers of superintendence, direction and control of the entire process of elections. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) presides over the Election Commission but does not have more powers than the other Election Commissioners. The Constitution ensures the security of the tenure of the CEC and Election Commissioners. They are appointed for a six-year term or continue till the age of 65, whichever is earlier. The CEC can be removed before the expiry of the term by the President if both Houses of Parliament make such a recommendation with a special majority and special majority means 2/3 majority of those present and voting. This independence is essential to ensure free and fair elections, maintain the credibility of the electoral process, and uphold democracy by preventing political interference.
18. What do you mean by First Past The Post System? Why did India adopt the FPTP system? Give reason.
Answer: First Past the Post System (FPTP) is also known as the Plurality System. In this system country is divided into single member territorial constituencies, usually of equal size. Voters select a single candidate usually marking against the candidates, name. A candidate who receives the highest number of votes, may be less than even half the votes polled, is declared the winner.
This system is easy to operate and establishes a clear link between representatives and constituencies. It also allows governments to be formed that have a clear mandate from the electorate, of course, on the basis of plurality of support amongst the electorate. India has adopted the FPTP system because of the simplicity of the system. This system offers voters a choice not simply between parties but specific candidates. Under this system the voters know who is their own representative and can hold him or her accountable. This system makes it possible for parliamentary government to function smoothly and effectively by facilitating the formation of a stable government. The FPTP system encourages voters from different social groups to come together to win an election in a locality.
Short Answer Type I
1. What is meant by a voter?
Answer: A voter is a person who has the right to vote in an election.
2. Define electorate.
Answer: The body of people electing the representative is known as the electorate.
3. Define election.
Answer: In elections, voters express their desire in favour of a particular candidate whereby selection is determined. In other words, an election is the legitimate channel of political recruitment in a popular government.
4. Mention four functions of the Election Commission of India.
Answer:
- To prepare, revise, update, and maintain the list of voters for election to the Parliament, State Legislatures, Local Bodies, and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To conduct and supervise elections and bye-elections to the Parliament, State Legislatures, and to the office of the President and the Vice-President of India.
- To delimit constituencies for election to the Parliament and to the State Legislature, and to allot the number of seats to each of them.
- To fix the election programme, including dates for nomination and scrutiny of candidates, and the date of elections.
5. What is indirect election?
Answer: When the voters choose some people to elect the representatives in their favour, it is an indirect election.
6. What is direct election?
Answer: In a direct election, the voters choose their representatives by their votes.
7. Give any five drawbacks of indirect election.
Answer:
- The people feel dissatisfied and it is undemocratic.
- The people take no interest in the management of their affairs as they are not directly involved.
- Chances of corruption are more in this system as it becomes easy to purchase votes with a small number of voters.
- This method is complex and takes more time because elections are held in two stages.
- It is not free from the evils of party politics.
8. Mention any five merits of direct democracy.
Answer:
- The voters have effective control over their representatives. The representatives cannot ignore the voters and must keep in mind the wishes of their constituents.
- There is direct contact between the voters and their representatives, essential for the success of democracy.
- Direct election promotes a sense of public spirit, creating a sense in the voters of active participation in public affairs and sharpening their political intelligence.
- Direct election has great educative value, as people learn a lot about their political system by participating in elections and coming into contact with various political parties.
- It is democratic in principle, with the will of the voters remaining paramount.
9. Point out any five defects of indirect democracy.
Answer:
- The people feel dissatisfied and it is undemocratic.
- The people take no interest in the management of their affairs as they are not directly involved.
- Chances of corruption are more in this system as it becomes easy to purchase votes with a small number of voters.
- This method is complex and takes more time because elections are held in two stages.
- It is not free from the evils of party politics.
10. What is meant by Representative Democracy?
Answer: Representative Democracy is a system of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.
11. Write a note on Adult Franchise.
Answer: By universal adult suffrage, we mean a system whereby all adult nationals of a country are entitled to become voters. Under this system, people have a right to participate in elections without any discrimination on the grounds of religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, colour of skin, and the like.
12. Write a note on Manhood Suffrage.
Answer: Manhood Suffrage refers to a system where only adult males were allowed to vote, excluding women.
13. Write a note on Limited Franchise.
Answer: Limited Franchise refers to a system where the right to vote is restricted based on certain criteria like property ownership, education level, or gender. The document states that “Universal adult suffrage is considered to be better than limited suffrage. In the case of granting limited franchise, there is partiality, corruption, and favouritism.”
14. Write three merits and two demerits of Universal Adult Franchise.
Answer: Merits:
- Stands for Democracy: Universal adult franchise supports the principle of full democracy, recognising equality by granting voting rights to all adult citizens without discrimination.
- Develops Personality: It allows individuals to participate in the political process, essential for personal development and the growth of political awareness.
- General Satisfaction: It creates general satisfaction among people as they feel included in the governance process, and can influence government decisions through their votes.
Demerits:
- Merit Ignored: Universal suffrage may result in unqualified individuals being elected, as it does not consider the merit or capability of the voters, potentially leading to inefficient governance.
- Rule of Ignorance: It can lead to the rule of ignorance where less informed or less educated voters may be easily influenced or manipulated, compromising the quality of elected officials and policies.
15. Mention any four weaknesses of the electoral system of India.
Answer:
- The Indian election system has been witnessing the march of criminals and anti-social elements in the electoral process.
- The undesirable and unhealthy role of money in elections has been a big drawback of the system.
- The absence of common platforms and public means for campaigning makes the election contest a very costly, noisy, and disturbing affair that confuses the process of public opinion making on the eve of the elections.
- The Indian election system has been defective as it has not been successful in securing the objectives of increased voter participation in elections and returning a fully representative party to power.
These answers are adjusted for clarity and coherence, maintaining the original context and intent.
Short Answer Type II
1. Write three advantages of Direct Election.
Answer:
- The voters have effective control over their representatives. The representatives cannot ignore the voters. He has to keep in mind the wishes of his constituents.
- There is direct contact between the voters and their representatives. They know each other very well. This is essential for the success of democracy.
- Direct election promotes the sense of public spirit. It creates a sense in the voters of active participation in public affairs. It also sharpens their political intelligence.
2. Write three defects of Direct Election.
Answer:
- It regards all voters as equally intelligent. It is not correct. All voters are not capable of exercising their votes properly.
- Direct election involves a large number of voters. Election campaign is conducted like war campaigns. In this election passion dominates over reason.
- Really good people do not want to offer as candidates as they do not like this populist drama. They prefer to stay away from the arena of election politics.
3. Mention three merits of Indirect Election.
Answer:
- Better candidates can be elected under this system. The electoral college is composed of capable persons. They are better than ordinary voters. Hence, their choice is supposed to be better.
- In indirect election the evils of party system are curbed to a considerable extent.
- It is also not possible to exercise influences upon the voters. Because, they are intelligent people.
4. Mention three systems of election of representatives.
Answer: The three systems of election of representatives are
- Direct Election
- Indirect Election
- First Past the Post System
Short Answer Type III
1. Mention two causes why India adopted the ‘First Past the Post System’.
Answer:
- India adopted the FPTP system due to its simplicity.
- This system offers voters a choice not simply between parties but specific candidates.
2. Write two qualifications of a voter.
Answer: Essential qualifications for franchise include: Persons below a certain age, aliens, people of unsound mind, and those who have served jail sentences for criminal offences generally do not have the right to vote.
3. Write two merits of Direct Election.
Answer:
- The voters have effective control over their representatives. The representatives cannot ignore the voters and must consider their constituents’ wishes.
- There is direct contact between the voters and their representatives, essential for the success of democracy.
4. Write two demerits of Direct Election.
Answer:
- It assumes all voters are equally intelligent, which is not correct. Not all voters are capable of exercising their votes properly.
- Direct elections involve a large number of voters, and election campaigns are often conducted like war campaigns, where passion dominates reason.
5. What is Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: Universal adult suffrage means a system where all adult nationals of a country are entitled to vote. People have the right to participate in elections without any discrimination based on religion, creed, caste, sex, place of birth, economic status, or colour of skin.
6. Give one argument for, and one argument against, the Universal Adult Suffrage.
Answer:
- For: The principle of universal adult franchise stands for full democracy and recognises equality in granting voting rights.
- Against: Universal suffrage can lead to unworthy people in power, as it does not consider individual merit, potentially resulting in inefficient and incompetent government.
7. Give two arguments against Universal Adult Suffrage.
Answer:
- Merit Ignored: It can lead to inefficient and incompetent government as merit is not considered.
- Rule of Ignorance: It often results in the rule of ignorant individuals, with good candidates being overshadowed by bad elements.
8. Write two defects of Universal Adult Suffrage.
Answer:
- Merit Ignored: It can lead to inefficient and incompetent government as merit is not considered.
- Rule of Ignorance: It often results in the rule of ignorant individuals, with good candidates being overshadowed by bad elements.
9. What is the basis of Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: The basis of Universal Adult Franchise is age.
10. “Indirect Election is better in a country with majority ignorant, illiterate and poor people.” Give two arguments in favour of this statement.
Answer: Capable persons in the electoral college can make better choices than ordinary voters. Indirect elections also reduce the evils of the party system significantly.
1. What are the different kinds of election?
Answer: There are two kinds of elections: direct and indirect elections.
2. Give any two defects of Adult Franchise.
Answer:
- It may lead to the birth of inefficient and incompetent government.
- It leads to the rule of ignorance.
3. Point out any two differences between a voter and a citizen.
Answer:
- All voters are citizens but all citizens are not voters.
- Citizens enjoy certain rights from birth, whereas the right to vote is acquired at a specific age.
4. Make a comparative study between First Past the Post and Proportional Representation System.
Answer:
| FPTP | PR |
|---|---|
| The country is divided into small geographical units called constituencies or districts. | Large geographical areas are demarcated as constituencies. The entire country may be a single constituency. |
| Every constituency elects one representative. | More than one representative may be elected from the constituency. |
| Voters vote for a candidate. | Voters vote for the party. |
| A party may get more seats than votes in the legislature. | Every party gets seats in the legislature in proportion to the percentage of votes that it gets. |
| Candidate who wins the election may not get majority (50%+1) votes. | Candidate who wins the election gets majority of votes. |
| Example: U.K., India | Examples: Israel, Netherlands. |
5. Examine the importance of the Election Commission in India.
Answer: The Election Commission of India is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections, maintaining the electoral roll, delimiting constituencies, and monitoring the election process to uphold democratic principles.
6. Explain why India is adopting the First Past the Post System.
Answer:
- Simplicity of the system.
- Voters have a choice not simply between parties but specific candidates.
- Voters know who their own representative is and can hold him or her accountable.
- Facilitates the formation of a stable government.
- Encourages voters from different social groups to come together to win an election in a locality.
7. Mention two merits of proportional representation system.
Answer:
- Ensures that the number of seats won by a political party is proportionate to the votes cast for the party.
- Gives fair representation to minority groups.
8. Give an idea of Proportional Representation.
Answer: Proportional Representation aims to ensure that the number of seats won by a political party in the legislature is approximately proportionate to the votes cast for the party.
9. Describe the working of P.R. System in the Rajya Sabha.
Answer: In the Rajya Sabha, the Single Transferable Vote System (STV) is used. Members are elected by the state legislative assemblies, and each voter ranks candidates according to preference. To win, a candidate must secure a minimum quota of votes, determined by a formula. If not enough candidates reach the quota after first preference votes, the candidate with the lowest votes is eliminated, and their votes are transferred to the next preferences until the required number of candidates is elected.
10. Give an idea of the Commission for Backward classes.
Answer: Article 340 of the Constitution allows the President to appoint a Commission to investigate the conditions of socially and educationally backward classes and recommend measures for their advancement.
11. What is Representative Democracy?
Answer: Representative Democracy is a system where citizens elect representatives to make decisions and govern on their behalf.
12. Examine the status of the Election Commission.
Answer: The Election Commission of India is an independent constitutional body vested with the authority to oversee the entire process of elections to Parliament, state legislatures, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
13. Explain the Reservation of seats under the constitution of India.
Answer: The Constitution of India provides for the reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes in the Union Parliament, State Legislatures, and Civil Services to ensure their participation in social and political life.
14. What is the new trend of India’s party system since 1989?
Answer: Since 1989, India’s party system has seen the rise of multi-party coalitions, allowing new and smaller parties to enter into electoral competition.
15. Give an idea of the role of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
Answer: The Chief Election Commissioner presides over the Election Commission and is responsible for supervising and directing the conduct of elections, ensuring their fairness and impartiality.
16. Explain the security of the tenure of the members of the Election Commission.
Answer: Members of the Election Commission are appointed for a six-year term or until the age of 65, whichever is earlier. The Chief Election Commissioner can only be removed by the President if both Houses of Parliament make such a recommendation with a special majority.
17. What is special majority?
Answer: A special majority is a two-thirds majority of the members present and voting.
Objective Type
(a) Write whether correct or incorrect:
1. All citizens are voters.
Answer: Incorrect
2. All voters are citizens.
Answer: Correct
3. Citizenship can be acquired at a particular age.
Answer: Correct
4. An individual enjoys right to vote from the moment of his birth.
Answer: Incorrect
5. Citizenship is compulsory.
Answer: Incorrect
6. Franchise is optional.
Answer: Correct
7. Franchise is compulsory everywhere.
Answer: Incorrect
8. Aliens can enjoy right to vote.
Answer: Incorrect
9. J. S. Mill was a supporter of Universal Adult Suffrage.
Answer: Incorrect
10. All elections are democratic.
Answer: Incorrect
11. Find out the correct answer:
(i) In India the Right to vote is determined on the basis of
Answer: (d) Universal adult franchise.
(ii) Election Commission-
Answer: (a) Recognizes Political parties
(iii) The basis of ‘Universal Adult Franchise’ is age/education/property. (Choose the correct answer)
Answer: Age
(b) Fill in the blanks:
1. Universal teaching must precede universal_____.
Answer: enfranchisement
2. The basis of universal adult franchise is_____.
Answer: age
3. Franchise is a condition of_____.
Answer: citizenship
4. Right to vote is a_____right.
Answer: political
5. Secret voting is_____than open voting.
Answer: better
6. Bluntschli opposed_____.
Answer: universal adult suffrage
(c) Answer the following:
1. Was Macaulay a supporter of Adult Suffrage?
Answer: No
2. Is every citizen a voter?
Answer: No
3. Is voting generally compulsory?
Answer: No
4. Is direct election popular today?
Answer: No
5. Which type of franchise is regarded as the best?
Answer: Universal Adult Franchise
6. Is the age of voting right uniform?
Answer: Yes
Textual Question
1. Which of the following resembles most a direct democracy?
(a) Discussions in a family meeting
(b) Election of the class monitor
(c) Choice of a candidate by a political party
(d) Decisions taken by the Gram Sabha
(e) Opinion polls conducted by the media
Answer: (d) Decisions taken by the Gram Sabha
2. Which of the following tasks are not performed by the Election Commission?
(a) Preparing the Electoral Rolls
(b) Nominating the candidates
(c) Setting up polling booths
(d) Implementing the model code of conduct
(e) Supervising the Panchayat elections
Answer: (e) Supervising the Panchayat elections
3. Which of the following is common to the method of election of the members of Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha?
(a) Every citizen above the age of 18 is an eligible voter
(b) Voter can give preference order for different candidates
(c) Every vote has equal value
(d) The winner must get more than half the votes
Answer: (a) Every citizen above the age of 18 is an eligible voter
4. In the First Past the Post system, that candidate is declared winner who
(a) Secures the largest number of postal ballots
(b) Belongs to the party that has highest number of votes in their country
(c) Has more votes than any other candidate in the constituency
(d) Attains first position by securing more than 50% votes
Answer: (c) Has more votes than any other candidate in the constituency
5. What is the difference between the system of reservation of constituencies and the system of separate electorate? Why did the Constitution makers reject the latter?
Answer: The system of reservation of constituencies ensures representation for certain groups without separating voters based on their identity. Separate electorate means voters of a particular community can only vote for candidates of their own community. The Constitution makers rejected separate electorates as it could lead to division and conflict among different communities, undermining national unity.
6. Which of the following statements are incorrect? Identify and correct them by substituting, adding or rearranging only one word or Phrase:
(a) FPTP system is followed for all the elections in India.
(b) Election Commission does not supervise Panchayat and Municipal elections.
(c) President of India cannot remove an Election Commissioner.
(d) Appointment of more than one Election Commissioners in the Election Commission is mandatory.
Answer: (a) FPTP system is followed for all the elections in India.
Correct: FPTP system is not followed for all the elections in India.
(b) Election Commission does not supervise Panchayat and Municipal elections.
Correct: Correct as it is.
(c) President of India cannot remove an Election Commissioner.
Correct: President of India can remove an Election Commissioner.
(d) Appointment of more than one Election Commissioners in the Election Commission is mandatory.
Correct: Appointment of more than one Election Commissioner in the Election Commission is not mandatory.
7. Indian electoral system aims at ensuring representation of socially disadvantaged sections. However, we are yet to have even 10 per cent women members in our legislatures. What measures would you suggest to improve the situation?
Answer: To improve the representation of women in legislatures, measures such as reserving a certain percentage of seats for women in Parliament and State Assemblies, encouraging political parties to nominate more female candidates, providing training and support for women in politics, and creating awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of women’s representation could be implemented.
8. Here are some wishes expressed in a conference to discuss a Constitution or a new country. Write against each of these whether FPTP or Proportional Representation system is more suited to meet each of these wishes.
Answer: (a) People should clearly know who is their representative so that they can hold him or her accountable. FPTP
(b) We have small linguistic minorities who are spread all over the country: we should ensure fair representation to them. Proportional Representation
(c) There should be no discrepancy between votes and seats for different parties. Proportional Representation
(d) People should be able to elect a good candidate even if they do not like his or her political party. FPTP
9. A former Chief Election Commissioner joined a political party and contested elections. There are various views on this issue. One view is that a former Election Commissioner is an independent citizen and has a right to join any political party and to contest election. According to the other view, leaving this possibility open can affect the impartiality of the Election Commission. So former Election Commissioners must not be allowed to contest any elections. Which position do you agree with and why?
Answer: I agree with the view that former Election Commissioners must not be allowed to contest any elections. Allowing them to join political parties and contest elections could affect the perceived impartiality of the Election Commission and erode public trust in the electoral process. To maintain the integrity and neutrality of the Election Commission, it is essential to restrict former Election Commissioners from engaging in political activities.
10. “Indian democracy is now ready to shift from a crude First Past the Post system to a system of Proportional Representation.” Do you agree with this statement? Give your reasons for or against this statement.
Answer: Arguments for:
- Proportional Representation ensures fair representation of all social and political groups.
- It reduces the wastage of votes and enhances the legitimacy of the government.
- It encourages the formation of coalition governments, which can lead to more inclusive and balanced policies.
Arguments against:
- The FPTP system is simpler and easier for voters to understand.
- It provides clear and stable majorities, which can lead to strong and decisive governance.
- Transitioning to Proportional Representation could lead to political instability and frequent coalition breakdowns.
11. Write two differences between FPTP and Proportional Representation Election System.
Answer: (a) FPTP: The candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins.
PR: Seats are allocated based on the percentage of votes each party receives.
(b) FPTP: Often leads to a majority government.
PR: Often leads to coalition governments.
12. Which suffrage is of recent origin?
Answer: Women suffrage
13. “Universal teaching must precede universal enfranchisement.” – Who said this?
Answer: J.S. Mill
14. Compulsory voting exists in –
Answer: None of the options provided (India, U.S.A., U.K., Spain) have compulsory voting.
15. “Minority should be adequately represented as an essential part of democracy.” – Who said?
Answer: J. S. Mill
16. “The representer approximates the characteristics of the represented.” – Who made this remark?
Answer: Curtis
17. “Representatives represent individuals and not communities.” – Who said?
Answer: J. S. Mill
18. Who are the ‘political people’?
Answer: Voters
19. The minimum age to be a voter in India is –
Answer: 18
20. Who was not a supporter of Universal Adult Suffrage?
Answer: J. S. Mill
21. “The modern democratic state has no alternative to Universal Adult Suffrage.” – Who said this?
Answer: Laski
22. “All true and democratic representation is therefore, functional representation.” This remark was made by –
Answer: Cole
23. Who mooted the idea of functional representation at the time of French Revolution?
Answer: Mirabeau
24. Andrei system of representation was introduced in –
Answer: Denmark
25. In developing representative democracy which country took the leading part?
Answer: U.K.
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger. He manages Online Free Notes and reads Victorian literature. His favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and he hopes to travel the world. Get in touch with him by sending him a friend request.
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