Class 9 Civics Chapter 1 Question Answers - Democratic Politics - I

Q1. What are the choices that voters make in an election?
Ans: In an election, voters make several important choices:

• They can choose who will make laws for them.
• They can select who will form the government and make key decisions.
• They can pick the party whose policies will guide the government and law-making.

Q2. What is the check on the political leaders which makes them serve the people?
Ans: The check on political leaders arises from their need to serve the people to secure their positions in future elections. Key points include:

• Electoral competition incentivises political parties and leaders to address issues that matter to voters.
• If leaders fail to meet voters' expectations, they risk losing in subsequent elections.
• Even those motivated by power must respond to public needs, similar to how shopkeepers must provide good service to retain customers.
• While political competition can lead to negative tactics, it ultimately encourages leaders to focus on the electorate's interests.

Q3. Why is there a provision of reservation of seats in the legislatures? [Important]
Ans: The provision for reservation of seats in legislatures aims to support weaker sections of society. The Constitution makers were concerned that:

• In an open electoral competition, these groups might struggle to get elected.
• They often lack the necessary resources, education, and connections.
• Influential candidates could overshadow them, limiting their representation.

This reservation ensures that the voices of all citizens, including Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, are heard in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies, making our democracy more inclusive.

Q4. Mention the provisions laid down under the Model Code of Conduct to regulate the election campaign.
Ans: According to the Model Code of Conduct, no party can :

(i) Use any place of worship for election propaganda.
(ii) Use government vehicles, aircraft and officials for elections.
(iii) Once elections are announced ministers shall not lay the foundation stones of any projects, take any big policy decisions or make any promises of providing public facilities.

Q5. In which way does the Election Commission enjoy the same kind of independence as the judiciary?
Ans: The Election Commission of India enjoys a level of independence similar to that of the judiciary. Key points include:

• The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is appointed by the President of India.
• Once appointed, the CEC is not accountable to the President or the government.
• It is extremely difficult for the ruling party to remove the CEC, regardless of their actions.
• The Election Commission has broad powers to oversee elections, ensuring they are conducted fairly.

Q6. What are the trends of popular participation in India?
Ans: The trends of popular participation in India include:

• Voter turnout is a key measure of participation. In India, it has either remained stable or increased over the years.
• Unlike in many Western democracies, a larger proportion of poor, illiterate, and underprivileged individuals vote compared to wealthier citizens.
• Common people place significant importance on elections, believing they can influence political parties to adopt favourable policies through their votes.

Q7. Write about any three challenges which an ordinary citizen would have to face if he wants to contest an election.
Ans: An ordinary citizen faces several challenges when contesting elections:

1. Financial Disparity: Candidates with significant funds have an unfair advantage over others.
2. Criminal Influence: In some cases, candidates with criminal ties can eliminate competition and secure a party 'ticket'.
3. Political Dynasties: Certain families dominate political parties, making it difficult for new candidates to emerge.

Q8. Mention any three techniques of election campaign.  [CBSE 2010]
Ans:

1. Contacting Voters: Candidates reach out directly to their voters.
2. Addressing Meetings: They hold and speak at election meetings to engage with the public.
3. Media Publicity: Candidates use newspapers and television to promote their campaigns.

Q9. Discuss the importance of elections in a democracy. [CBSE 2010]
Ans: Elections are vital in a democracy for several reasons:

• They allow people to choose their representatives and the policies they prefer.
• Elections provide a mechanism for voters to express their preferences regularly.
• They ensure that representatives remain accountable to the people.
• Regular elections enable citizens to replace representatives who do not meet their expectations.

Without elections, it would be challenging to maintain a true democracy, as it would require all citizens to gather and make decisions collectively, which is impractical. 

Q10. Discuss the importance of an election manifesto. [CBSE 2010]
Ans: An election manifesto is a crucial document for political parties, outlining their proposed policies and actions if elected. Its importance includes:

• Transparency: It informs voters about the party's intentions and plans.
• Accountability: Voters can hold parties responsible for their promises.
• Guidance: It helps voters make informed decisions based on the party's commitments.
• Engagement: It encourages public discussion and debate on key issues.

Overall, an election manifesto serves as a roadmap for the party's governance and a tool for voters to assess their options.

Q11. What is a reserved constituency? How does it strengthen democracy? [CBSE 2010]
Ans: A reserved constituency is one where only candidates from the Scheduled Castes (SC) or Scheduled Tribes (ST) can contest elections. Currently, in the Lok Sabha:

• 84 seats are reserved for SCs
• 47 seats are reserved for STs

This system helps strengthen democracy by:

• Ensuring representation of weaker sections of society.
• Providing equal opportunities for all citizens to participate in governance.
• Preventing influential groups from monopolising political power.