Which of the following can be a reason for power sharing in a polity?...
- Two different sets of reasons can be given in favour of power sharing. Firstly, power sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
- Since social conflict often leads to violence and political instability, power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order. Imposing the will of the majority community over others may look like an attractive option in the short run, but in the long run it undermines the unity of the nation.
- Tyranny of the majority is not just oppressive for the minority; it often brings ruin to the majority as well.
View all questions of this test
Which of the following can be a reason for power sharing in a polity?...
Power sharing is an essential aspect of a democratic polity as it helps to ensure stability, inclusivity, and harmony within society. There are several reasons why power sharing is important, and two of the prominent reasons are discussed below:
1. Power sharing helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups:
- In diverse societies with multiple social, cultural, religious, and linguistic groups, power sharing becomes crucial to prevent the domination of one group over others.
- By allowing different groups to participate in the decision-making process and share power, power sharing ensures that the interests and concerns of all groups are taken into account.
- It provides a platform for negotiation, compromise, and consensus-building among different groups, reducing the chances of conflicts arising from the marginalization or exclusion of certain groups.
- Through power sharing, the grievances and aspirations of various groups can be addressed, leading to a more inclusive and cohesive society.
2. Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy:
- Democracy is based on the principle of popular sovereignty, where power resides with the people. Power sharing is an inherent feature of democracy as it ensures that power is not concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or groups.
- The democratic system distributes power among different institutions and levels of government, such as the executive, legislature, and judiciary, to prevent the abuse of power and promote accountability.
- Power sharing promotes the principle of checks and balances, where different branches of government have separate powers and can limit each other's actions.
- It also allows for the peaceful transfer of power through elections, where different political parties and leaders compete for power based on the will of the people.
- Power sharing is, therefore, a fundamental principle of democracy as it guarantees the participation and representation of citizens in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, power sharing is important in a polity for several reasons. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflicts between social groups and ensures the inclusion and representation of diverse interests. Additionally, power sharing is the very essence of democracy, as it prevents the concentration of power and promotes accountability and citizen participation. Hence, both the given reasons, i.e., reducing conflict and being the spirit of democracy, are valid justifications for power sharing in a polity.
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed UPSC study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in UPSC.