Consider the following statements.1. The system of proportional repre...
- Though the Constitution has adopted the system of proportional representation in the case of Rajya Sabha, it has not preferred the same system in the case of Lok Sabha. Instead, it has adopted the system of territorial representation for the election of members to the Lok Sabha.
- Under territorial representation, every member of the legislature represents a geographical area known as a constituency. From each constituency, only one representative is elected. Hence such a constituency is known as a single-member constituency.
- In this system, a candidate who secures a majority of votes is declared elected. This simple majority system of representation does not represent the whole electorate. In other words, it does not secure due representation to minorities (small groups).
- The system of proportional representation aims at removing the defects of territorial representation. Under this system, all sections of the people get representation in proportion to their number.
Consider the following statements.1. The system of proportional repre...
Proportional representation
Proportional representation is a system of electoral representation in which the number of seats that a political party or group of candidates receives in a legislature or parliament is proportional to the number of votes it receives in an election. This system aims to address the limitations of territorial representation, where only a single representative is elected to represent a geographical constituency, regardless of the size or diversity of the population within that constituency.
Statement 1: The system of proportional representation aims at removing the defects of territorial representation.
This statement is correct. The system of proportional representation is designed to overcome the limitations of territorial representation by ensuring that all sections of the population are represented in proportion to their numbers. It seeks to address the problem of under-representation of minority groups or smaller sections of the population that often occurs in territorial representation systems.
Statement 2: Under this system, all sections of the people get representation in proportion to their number.
This statement is correct. Proportional representation aims to provide fair and equitable representation to all sections of the population. By allocating seats in proportion to the votes received by each political party or group, the system ensures that the composition of the legislature reflects the diversity and preferences of the electorate. This helps to ensure that all sections of the people have a voice in the decision-making process.
Statement 3: Even the smallest section of the population gets its due share of representation in the legislature.
This statement is correct. One of the key advantages of proportional representation is that it allows even the smallest sections of the population to have their voices heard and their interests represented in the legislature. In territorial representation systems, smaller sections of the population may often be ignored or marginalized due to their numerical disadvantage. However, under proportional representation, every vote counts, and even the smallest sections of the population can secure representation in proportion to their numbers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, all three statements are correct. The system of proportional representation aims to address the defects of territorial representation by providing fair and equitable representation to all sections of the population, including the smallest sections. This system ensures that the composition of the legislature reflects the diversity and preferences of the electorate, thus promoting a more inclusive and representative democracy.