All questions of Electoral Politics for Class 9 Exam

The Chief election commission of India is appointed by the president on the recommendation of council minister of India under article 324(2) constitution of India.

Land to the tiller..

The correct answer is option 'C', which states that there are currently 543 Lok Sabha constituencies in India. In this response, we will provide a detailed explanation of the Lok Sabha constituencies in India.

Lok Sabha Constituencies:

- Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Indian Parliament, consisting of representatives elected from constituencies across the country. These constituencies are geographic divisions within each state and union territory, through which the voters elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha.

Delimitation Commission:

- The process of delimitation, which involves the division of constituencies, is conducted by a Delimitation Commission. The Delimitation Commission is appointed by the President of India and is responsible for redrawing the boundaries of the Lok Sabha and state legislative assembly constituencies based on population changes.

Delimitation Process:

- The delimitation process takes place periodically to ensure equitable representation in the Lok Sabha. It aims to reallocate constituencies based on population changes to maintain a balanced and fair distribution of seats. The Delimitation Commission reviews various demographic factors such as population density, geographical features, and administrative convenience while determining the boundaries of the constituencies.

Previous Delimitation Exercise:

- The last delimitation exercise was conducted in 2002-2008, based on the 2001 census data. This exercise led to the increase in the number of Lok Sabha constituencies from 545 to 543. The number was reduced by two due to the separation of the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir into two separate union territories - Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Future Delimitation Exercise:

- It is important to note that the number of Lok Sabha constituencies may change in the future due to population fluctuations and the need for equitable representation. The next delimitation exercise is expected to be conducted after the 2026 census.

Conclusion:

- In conclusion, the current number of Lok Sabha constituencies in India is 543. The delimitation process, conducted periodically by the Delimitation Commission, ensures fair and equitable representation in the Lok Sabha. It is crucial for maintaining democratic principles and giving every citizen an opportunity to elect their representatives.

True, The final stage of an election is the day when the voters cast or poll their vote. That day is usually called the election day

The Election Commission of India conducts elections for Parliament and State Legislatures in India. It is an independent constitutional authority responsible for administering elections in the country.

Role of Election Commission of India:

1. Conducting elections: The Election Commission of India is responsible for conducting elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice-President of India.

2. Voter registration: The Commission is responsible for maintaining a voter list and registering eligible voters for the elections.

3. Electoral rolls: The Election Commission prepares and updates electoral rolls for each constituency to ensure that only eligible voters are allowed to cast their votes.

4. Model Code of Conduct: The Commission enforces the Model Code of Conduct, a set of guidelines for political parties and candidates to ensure free and fair elections.

5. Election observers: The Commission appoints election observers to monitor the election process and ensure that it is conducted in a fair and transparent manner.

6. Complaints and disputes: The Commission also handles complaints and disputes related to the conduct of elections and takes necessary action to address them.

Conclusion:

The Election Commission of India plays a crucial role in ensuring free and fair elections in the country. Its impartiality and independence are essential for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process and upholding the democratic values of the nation.

True..

Option B is correct

B

The maximum number of 80 seats of Lok Sabha has been allocated to Uttar Pradesh.

Not Allowed Activities in an Election Campaign:

Introduction:
During an election campaign, certain activities are prohibited to ensure fair and free elections. These activities aim to prevent any form of corruption, manipulation, or undue influence on voters. One such activity that is not allowed is giving money to voters to cast their vote for a particular candidate.

Explanation:
Giving money to voters to influence their voting decision is considered bribery and is strictly prohibited during election campaigns. This practice undermines the democratic process and compromises the integrity of the election. It is essential to maintain the fairness and transparency of elections, ensuring that voters make their decisions based on their own judgment and not influenced by monetary incentives.

Other Allowed Activities:
While giving money to voters is not allowed, various other activities are permitted during an election campaign. These activities aim to promote political participation, awareness, and competition among candidates. Some of the allowed activities include:

1. Using television channels: Candidates can utilize television channels to reach a wide audience and convey their messages and campaign promises. Televised debates, interviews, and advertisements are common practices during election campaigns to engage with voters effectively.

2. Door-to-door canvassing: Candidates and their supporters can visit voters' homes to discuss their political agendas, distribute campaign materials, and seek support. Door-to-door canvassing allows for direct interaction with voters and helps in understanding their concerns and priorities.

3. Contacting voters on phone: Candidates and their campaign teams can reach out to voters through phone calls to communicate their policies, answer queries, and seek support. Phone contact is an effective way to engage with a large number of voters and ensure personalized communication.

Conclusion:
While election campaigns are essential for candidates to convey their messages and gain public support, certain activities are not allowed to maintain the fairness and integrity of the electoral process. Giving money to voters is strictly prohibited as it undermines the principles of democracy and encourages corruption. However, candidates can utilize various other methods such as television channels, door-to-door canvassing, and contacting voters on the phone to effectively communicate their political agendas and seek support.

Correct option is (b) 
The President of India (based on a recommendation from incumbent Govt of India) appoints the Chief Election Commissioner. Conventionally, senior-most Election Commissioner is appointed as CEC. He has tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.

Answer:
The election held for only one constituency to fill the vacancy caused due to the death or resignation of a member is called a by-election. Here is a detailed explanation of the term:
By-election:
- A by-election is a special type of election that is conducted to fill a single vacancy in a particular constituency.
- It is held when a member of parliament or a representative resigns, dies, or is disqualified from holding the office.
- By-elections are usually limited to specific constituencies rather than being nationwide like general elections.
- The purpose of a by-election is to ensure that the vacant seat in the legislature is filled promptly and that the constituents have representation.
- The candidates who participate in a by-election are typically from the same political parties or individuals who contest as independent candidates.
- By-elections are important as they allow voters to choose a new representative to serve them and ensure the continuity of democratic governance.
In conclusion, the correct answer is A: By-election.

The correct answer is option 'B', which states that there are 84 seats reserved for the Scheduled Caste in the Lok Sabha. Let's delve into the details to understand the rationale behind this answer.

Explanation:

Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, is the lower house of the Parliament of India. It consists of a total of 545 members, of which 543 members are elected directly by the people of India and 2 members are nominated by the President to represent the Anglo-Indian community.

Reservation for Scheduled Castes:

To ensure adequate representation and empowerment of historically disadvantaged communities, the Indian Constitution provides for reservation of seats in the Lok Sabha for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). Scheduled Castes, also known as Dalits, are socially and economically marginalized communities in India.

Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes is enshrined in Article 330 of the Constitution. According to this provision, seats are reserved for Scheduled Castes in the Lok Sabha in proportion to their population in each state. The President of India determines the number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes in consultation with the Election Commission.

Determining the Number of Reserved Seats:

The number of reserved seats for Scheduled Castes in the Lok Sabha is determined based on the population of Scheduled Castes in each state. To calculate this, the following steps are followed:

1. Census Data: The population data of Scheduled Castes from the latest census is taken into consideration. The census is conducted every ten years in India.

2. Proportional Allocation: The population of Scheduled Castes in each state is divided by the total population of the state to determine the proportion of Scheduled Castes in that state.

3. Reservation Formula: The number of seats reserved for Scheduled Castes in each state is determined by applying the reservation formula, which is the proportion of Scheduled Castes multiplied by the total number of seats allocated to that state in the Lok Sabha.

4. Rounding-off: The calculated number of reserved seats may result in decimal values. In such cases, the decimal is rounded off to the nearest whole number.

Applying this process, the correct answer to the given question is option 'B', which states that there are 84 seats reserved for the Scheduled Caste in the Lok Sabha.

Appointment of Election Commission Members

The Election Commission of India is an independent constitutional body responsible for administering free and fair elections in the country. The members of the Election Commission are appointed by the President of India. Let's understand the appointment process in detail.

Constitutional Provisions

The provisions related to the appointment of the Election Commission are mentioned in Article 324 of the Constitution of India. The article empowers the President to appoint the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. The article also mentions that the appointment of the Election Commission should be made after consultation with the Chief Justice of India or a judge of the Supreme Court nominated by him.

Appointment Process

The appointment process of the Election Commission members is as follows:

1. Recommendation by the Government: The government recommends the names of potential candidates for the post of Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.

2. Consultation with Opposition Parties: The President consults with the leaders of opposition parties in the Parliament before making the appointment.

3. Appointment by the President: After due consultation, the President appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.

Tenure of Members

The Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners have a tenure of six years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. The members can resign from their post or can be removed by the President on the grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity.

Conclusion

The appointment of the Election Commission members is a crucial process, as it ensures the impartiality and credibility of the election process. The appointment process is designed to ensure that the members are independent and free from any political influence.

What makes an election democratic?
There are several factors that contribute to making an election democratic. These include:
Universal Adult Franchise:
- All adult citizens have the right to vote, regardless of their gender, caste, religion, or social status.
- This ensures that every eligible citizen has an equal opportunity to participate in the electoral process and have a say in choosing their representatives.
Fundamental Rights:
- The election process must uphold and protect the fundamental rights of the citizens.
- These rights include the freedom of speech, expression, association, and movement, which enable individuals to participate freely in political activities and express their opinions without fear of repression.
Free and Fair Election:
- Elections must be conducted in a free and fair manner, without any interference or manipulation.
- This ensures that all candidates and political parties have an equal chance to compete, and voters can make their choices without coercion or intimidation.
- The election process should be transparent, with proper rules and regulations in place to prevent fraud or malpractice.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, an election is considered democratic when it incorporates universal adult franchise, upholds fundamental rights, and ensures free and fair elections. These principles are essential for promoting inclusivity, equality, and the active participation of citizens in the democratic process.

Option A,
To ensure proper representation to the weaker section like SC and ST

Reserved seats for SCs - 84
Reserved seats for Scheduled Castes (SCs) in the Lok Sabha are allocated based on the proportion of SC population in each state or union territory. As per the Constitution of India, a certain number of seats in the Lok Sabha are reserved for SCs to ensure their adequate representation in the Parliament. Currently, there are 84 reserved seats for SCs in the Lok Sabha out of the total 543 seats.
Having reserved seats for SCs helps in giving a voice to the marginalized communities and ensures that their interests are represented in the decision-making process of the country. This provision aims to address historical injustices and inequalities faced by the SC communities and gives them a platform to participate in the democratic process.
Overall, the reservation of seats for SCs in the Lok Sabha plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in the Indian political system. It is a step towards creating a more equitable and representative democracy that reflects the diversity of the nation.

General elections are held after the term of five years for Lok Sabha.

**Explanation:**

**1. General elections:**
General elections are held to elect members of the Lok Sabha, the lower house of the Parliament of India. These elections are conducted after the completion of the five-year term of the Lok Sabha. During general elections, the entire country participates in the electoral process, and voters elect their representatives who will form the government at the national level.

**2. Term of Lok Sabha:**
The term of the Lok Sabha is five years from the date of its first meeting, unless it is dissolved earlier. The President of India has the power to dissolve the Lok Sabha before the completion of its term if necessary.

**3. Mid-term elections:**
Mid-term elections refer to the elections that are conducted before the completion of the full term of the Lok Sabha. These elections are conducted when the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its five-year term due to various reasons such as political instability, loss of majority by the ruling party, or any other constitutional crisis. During mid-term elections, only the seats that become vacant due to the dissolution of the Lok Sabha are contested, and the rest of the seats remain unaffected.

**4. By-elections:**
By-elections, also known as special elections or bye-elections, are held to fill vacancies in the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assemblies between two general elections. These vacancies may arise due to the death, resignation, disqualification, or removal of a sitting member. By-elections are conducted only for the specific constituency where the vacancy has occurred, and voters in that constituency elect a new representative.

**Conclusion:**
Elections held after the term of five years for Lok Sabha are called general elections. Mid-term elections are conducted when the Lok Sabha is dissolved before the completion of its term. By-elections are held to fill vacancies in the Lok Sabha or State Legislative Assemblies between two general elections.

The age of a person who can contest elections for the Lok Sabha in India is 25 years.

Explanation:
- According to the Constitution of India, the minimum age requirement to contest elections for the Lok Sabha is mentioned in Article 84.
- Article 84 states that a person must be at least 25 years old to be eligible to contest elections for the Lok Sabha.
- The Lok Sabha is the lower house of the Parliament of India and consists of representatives elected by the people of India.
- The minimum age of 25 years is set to ensure that candidates have attained a certain level of maturity and experience before they can participate in the electoral process.
- This age requirement helps to ensure that the candidates have a certain level of understanding and awareness of the issues faced by the country and can effectively represent the interests of the people.
- It also ensures that candidates have had some exposure to the real world and have gained some life experiences before they enter the political arena.
- This age requirement is also aimed at preventing immature or inexperienced individuals from contesting elections and potentially making decisions that may have a significant impact on the nation.
- By setting a minimum age requirement, the Constitution of India aims to ensure that individuals who contest elections possess the necessary qualities and capabilities to fulfill the responsibilities of a Member of Parliament.
- It provides an opportunity for younger individuals to actively participate in the democratic process and contribute to the governance of the country.
- This minimum age requirement is applicable to all individuals, regardless of their gender, caste, religion, or any other criteria. It ensures equal opportunities for all eligible candidates to contest elections and represent the people in the Lok Sabha.

Role of the Election Commissioner
The Election Commission of India is a constitutional authority responsible for administering election processes in India at both the central and state levels. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) leads this body and is crucial for ensuring free and fair elections.
Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner
The Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by the:
- President of India: This appointment is made under Article 324 of the Indian Constitution. The President acts on the advice of the Council of Ministers, but the authority to appoint the CEC lies solely with the President.
Significance of the Appointment
- Independence: The CEC operates independently of the government, which is vital for maintaining the integrity of elections.
- Tenure and Security: The CEC enjoys a fixed tenure and can only be removed under specific circumstances, ensuring stability and impartiality in electoral processes.
Authority of the Election Commission
- Conducting Elections: The Election Commission oversees the conduct of elections and ensures adherence to laws and regulations.
- Voter Education: It also plays a role in educating voters about their rights and the electoral process.
In summary, the Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by the President of India, emphasizing the importance of an independent authority to oversee the electoral process, which is fundamental to democracy in the country.

**Explanation:**

The incorrect statement is option A: All citizens above the age of 21 can vote in an election.

**Reasoning:**

In most countries, the legal voting age is 18, not 21. Therefore, the correct statement should be "All citizens above the age of 18 can vote in an election."

**Additional Information:**

Let's analyze the other options to understand why they are correct:

**Option B: Every citizen has the right to vote regardless of caste, religion, or gender.**

This statement is correct. In a democratic country, every citizen is entitled to the right to vote irrespective of their caste, religion, gender, or any other discriminatory factor. Voting is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all citizens.

**Option C: Some criminals and persons with an unsound mind can be denied the right to vote in rare situations.**

This statement is also correct. In certain circumstances, such as when a person has been convicted of a serious crime or is deemed to have an unsound mind, their right to vote may be restricted. However, these situations are rare and are subject to legal procedures and safeguards.

**Option D: It is the responsibility of the government to get the names of eligible voters put in the voters list.**

This statement is correct. It is the responsibility of the government to compile and maintain an accurate voters list. The government should ensure that the names of all eligible voters are included in the list and that it is regularly updated to reflect any changes or additions.

In conclusion, option A is the incorrect statement because the legal voting age in most countries is 18, not 21. All other options are correct, as they reflect the principles of democracy and the rights and responsibilities associated with voting.

In the UK a writ for a by-election must be issued within three months of a vacancy arising. In the United States, special elections are held when a seat in the House of Representatives, state legislature, or local legislature becomes vacant.

Understanding the Assertion and Reason
The statement evaluates the significance of elections in a democracy and the implications of regular electoral competition.
Assertion (A)
- Elections are indeed vital in a democracy.
- They allow citizens to choose their representatives, ensuring that the government reflects the will of the people.
- This process fosters political accountability and gives citizens a voice in governance.
Reason (R)
- Regular electoral competition incentivizes political parties and leaders to respond to the needs and interests of the populace.
- When parties know they must compete for votes, they are more likely to focus on the issues that matter to their constituents.
- This competition can lead to better governance and responsiveness to public concerns.
Why Option B is Correct
- Both Assertion and Reason are true. Elections are crucial for representation, and competition encourages accountability.
- However, the Reason does not directly explain the Assertion. While competition is beneficial, the core function of elections is to ensure representation, which exists even without competition.
- Thus, the connection between the two statements is not a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Conclusion
- Option B accurately captures the relationship between the Assertion and Reason.
- Both are true, but the Reason does not serve as the correct explanation for the Assertion, emphasizing the multifaceted role of elections in a democratic society.

Condition of a Democratic Election

A democratic election is a process of choosing a leader or representatives of the people through a fair and free voting system. The following are some of the conditions that make an election democratic:

• Everyone is allowed to vote: A democratic election ensures that all citizens of voting age have the right to vote.

• There are political parties to contest elections: In a democratic election, political parties or candidates are free to contest the election. This means that there is no monopoly of power and that citizens have a choice.

• Elections are held at regular intervals: Democratic elections are held periodically, usually every few years, to ensure that citizens have the opportunity to choose their representatives.

• Free and fair election process: A democratic election ensures that the voting process is free from any external influence and that the results are fair.

Not a Condition of a Democratic Election

The candidate not preferred by people gets elected is not a condition of a democratic election. In a democratic election, the candidate who receives the most votes is elected. The candidate who is not preferred by people will not be elected. Therefore, the statement is not a condition of a democratic election.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a democratic election is an important process of choosing leaders or representatives through a fair and free voting system. The conditions of a democratic election include everyone being allowed to vote, political parties contesting elections, holding elections at regular intervals, and ensuring a free and fair election process. The statement that the candidate not preferred by people gets elected is not a condition of a democratic election.

Understanding Indian Elections and Democracy
In evaluating whether Indian elections are democratic, it's essential to consider the core principles of democracy beyond mere numbers.
Reasons Why Option 'A' is Not a Good Indicator
- Size of the Voter Base:
While India has the largest number of voters, this fact alone does not guarantee democratic practices. Democracy is not solely about the number of people who can vote; it is about the quality of the electoral process and the rights of those voters.
- Key Elements of Democracy:
A democratic election should ensure:
- Free and fair elections
- Equal opportunity for all parties to contest
- An independent body to oversee the electoral process
Why the Other Options Indicate a Democratic Process
- Election Commission's Power:
The strength and independence of India's Election Commission are crucial. A powerful Election Commission ensures that elections are conducted fairly and that all rules are upheld.
- Universal Voting Rights:
In India, every citizen above the age of 18 has the right to vote, which is a fundamental aspect of democracy. This inclusivity is vital for a representative system.
- Acceptance of Electoral Verdicts:
The acceptance of election results by losing parties reflects a mature democratic process. It shows respect for the rule of law and the will of the people, which is essential for political stability.
Conclusion
In summary, while the sheer number of voters in India is impressive, it does not alone signify a democratic election. The effectiveness of democratic processes relies on the integrity of the electoral system, the rights of the voters, and the behavior of political entities post-elections.