Democracy Chapter Notes | Window on the Word Class 7: Solutions, Notes & Worksheets PDF Download

A government is the governing body of a country or state. It is responsible for creating and enforcing laws to maintain societal order. A government's primary role is to ensure that laws are followed by the citizens. Additionally, governments have obligations towards their people, such as providing essential services and amenities. These services include healthcare facilities, well-constructed roads, efficient railways, housing facilities, clean drinking water, electricity supply, and recreational parks.

Types of Government

• Authoritarian: Power held by individuals not elected by the people. Rulers have all power, people have few rights.
• Monarchy: Rule by a king or queen, power inherited. Examples: Britain (constitutional monarchy), Brunei (absolute monarchy).
• Theocracy: Rule by religious leaders in the name of a deity. Examples: Iran, Saudi Arabia, Vatican City.
• Oligarchy: Rule by a small group like aristocrats, powerful men, or a racial group.
• Dictatorship: Total power held by a dictator who seizes power by force. Examples: Germany under Hitler, Pakistan under Zia ul-Haq.
• Communist: Economy controlled by the government, single party in power, no private ownership, goods equally shared. Examples: China, North Korea (formerly USSR).

Types of Democracy

Democratic: The citizens govern directly or choose representatives from among themselves to create a governing body for the country. There are two main types of democracies:

• Direct Democracy: In this form, people actively engage in discussions and participate directly in decision-making processes. This type of democracy was first seen in Ancient Greece and is only feasible in small societies.
• Indirect or Representative Democracy: Here, the government is managed by representatives elected by the people through voting. Countries like India and the USA follow this model.

Elements that Make Democracy Popular in the Contemporary World

Today, democracy is widely embraced as the most favored form of government worldwide. Let's delve into the reasons that underpin this popularity:

People's Rule

• Democracy uniquely empowers citizens to influence government decisions.
• Citizens elect representatives through voting, granting them the authority to govern. Consequently, people possess ultimate political power.
• In a democracy, ineffective governments can be replaced based on public dissatisfaction. Individuals have the liberty to voice concerns against detrimental governmental actions.

Equality

• In a democratic setup, all individuals are regarded as equals under the law.
• The constitution guarantees equal rights for everyone, prohibiting discrimination based on factors such as caste, gender, race, religion, wealth, or language.

Fundamental Rights

Within a democracy, people are entitled to fundamental human rights, safeguarded by legal provisions. Individuals whose basic rights are violated can seek redress through the judicial system.

• The Indian Constitution secures the following rights for its citizens:
• Freedom of speech and action
• Freedom to practice any religion
• Access to information
• Freedom to move and settle anywhere in the country
• Right to form associations
• Freedom to assemble peacefully
• Right to education

Law and Justice in Democracy

• Law and Justice: In a democracy, laws exist to limit the power of the government. No individual is above the law. The primary focus of the law is to ensure justice by resolving matters fairly so that everyone receives justice.
• Separation of Powers: In a democratic system, power is distributed among three branches - the legislature, executive, and judiciary. These branches work alongside each other, keeping a check to prevent any branch from misusing its authority. This system, known as the separation of powers, makes it challenging for any individual or group within the government to amass excessive power and establish authoritarian control.
• Accommodating Differences: A healthy democracy incorporates mechanisms to address the diverse needs of society and resolve conflicts peacefully through dialogue and negotiation. The goal of a democratic state is to ensure that all groups and communities have their rights, values, and sentiments respected.

Equality And Justice in India 

Last year, we learned about the main features of a democracy, including people's participation, conflict resolution, equality, and justice. One of the most crucial features is ensuring equality and justice for everyone.

Steps taken in India to ensure Equality and Justice:

• The Constitution of India guaranteed political, economic, and social equality for all citizens. Every citizen above 18 years old was given the right to vote, regardless of caste, religion, or wealth. This enabled disadvantaged groups like Dalits and women to actively participate in Indian politics, holding significant positions.
• The government established mechanisms and programs for the welfare of disadvantaged groups.
• The abolition of untouchability was a significant move to safeguard the dignity of Dalits.
• Reserved seats were provided for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in Parliament and higher education institutions. Certain job quotas were also allocated for them in the government and public sector companies.
• Initiatives were launched to protect the rights of the girl child and ensure her access to education, including the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao initiative.

The Way Ahead

• A significant amount of effort has been made to support marginalized communities in India, yet there is still much work to be accomplished.
• The primary challenge lies in transforming societal attitudes, a task that proves challenging in a democratic setup where balancing justice and popularity can be complex.
• Education plays a pivotal role in broadening perspectives, while uplifting and empowering the most vulnerable segments of society can pave the way for an egalitarian and inclusive society.

Life Skills - Democracy and Equality

• Anmol, a dedicated student, had to stay home to care for siblings while her mother worked.
• Pinto, injured at work, seeks legal action against the factory owner but lacks funds for legal fees.
• Raju, witnessing caste discrimination, questions if democracy truly ensures equality in India.
• Reflect on whether democracy effectively serves these individuals.
• Consider actions to foster equality, tolerance, and inclusivity in Indian society.
• As future Indian citizens, ponder ways to enhance societal equality and inclusivity.