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

In this chapter, we will explore the various institutions and processes that play a vital role in upholding the values and ideals of democracy in India. These values include liberty, equality, justice, diversity, and sovereignty. Democracy relies on several key institutions to ensure these principles are maintained. 

Universal Adult Franchise

• Universal adult franchise is a fundamental feature of the Indian Constitution, granting every Indian citizen above the age of 18 the right to vote.
• It ensures that all citizens, regardless of factors like caste, economic status, religion, or gender, have the equal right to participate in the democratic process.
• Only individuals with unsound minds or those convicted of criminal offenses are not allowed to vote.
• Each citizen has one vote, and the value of each vote is the same.
• Universal adult franchise is considered the cornerstone of Indian democracy as it empowers every citizen equally.

The Elections

• India operates as an indirect democracy, where citizens elect representatives to run the government on their behalf.
• Elections are the process through which these representatives are chosen.
• Two major types of elections are held in India: general elections for the Lok Sabha (central government) and state assembly elections.
• These elections occur once every five years, unless there is a state of emergency, such as war.

Constituencies and Reserved Constituencies:

• The country is divided into smaller units called constituencies for elections, ensuring each constituency has a similar population size.
• Each constituency elects one representative to the government.
• Some constituencies are reserved for specific communities, like Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Anglo-Indians, to ensure diverse representation in legislative bodies.

The Election Commission:

• Elections in India are conducted by an independent body known as the Election Commission.
• The Election Commission ensures that elections are free and fair and that no candidate gains an unfair advantage.
• It oversees the entire election process, from announcing elections to counting votes and declaring results.
• The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines drafted by the Election Commission, which political parties and candidates must follow during elections.
• The Election Commission is accountable to Parliament, and the Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by the President of India.
• It has the authority to settle disputes regarding election results and treats all political parties and candidates equally.

Political Parties

• Political parties are crucial institutions in a democracy, consisting of individuals who share similar views on how a country should be governed.
• Parties aim to win elections to run the government and have their policies implemented.
• India follows a multi-party system, meaning there are multiple political parties.
• These parties may be national or regional, based on their reach and election presence.

National and Regional Parties

• National parties contest elections in four or more states and have a broader presence. Examples include the Indian National Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party, and Communist Party of India.
• Regional parties focus on specific states and highlight the unique issues of those regions. Examples include the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam, Telugu Desam Party, Indian Union Muslim League, and Shiromani Akali Dal.
• Each party has its symbol and an election manifesto outlining its goals, views, and policies.

The Process of Elections

• Elections involve campaigning, where political parties present their election manifestos and plans to the public.
• All parties have the right to campaign freely, but they must adhere to the Model Code of Conduct.
• The campaign must end 48 hours before polling concludes.
• Voting is done by secret ballot, ensuring the privacy and protection of voters' choices.
• After elections, the Election Commission counts the votes, and the party with the majority of seats in the Lok Sabha or state legislature is invited to form the government.

Coalition Government

• If no single party secures a majority of seats in Parliament, two or more parties can form a coalition government.
• Coalition governments are less stable as their survival depends on the support of all coalition members.
• Disagreements among coalition partners can lead to the fall of the government.

The Role of Citizens in a Democracy

• In a democracy, citizens hold significant power and responsibility.
• Their role is that of watchdogs, carefully evaluating government actions and being aware of their rights and responsibilities.
• Citizens have the duty to protest against government actions that violate their fundamental rights or go against the country's interests.
• Cooperation among citizens is essential to accommodate the diverse elements in the country and ensure the smooth running of the nation.