Q1. How can you say that every government that holds an election is not a democracy? Give an example to prove your point.
Ans. It is true that every government that holds an election is not a democracy. In many dictatorships and monarchies, there are formally elected parliaments and governments but the real power is with those who are not elected.
For Example:
Seizure of Power: General Pervez Musharraf led a military coup in October 1999, overthrowing a democratically elected government in Pakistan.
Self-Declaration: Musharraf declared himself the 'Chief Executive' initially and later assumed the title of President.
Referendum Controversy: In 2002, a referendum was held, granting Musharraf a five-year extension. However, Pakistani media, human rights organizations, and democracy activists criticized the referendum, alleging it lacked legitimacy.
Centralization of Power: Despite the facade of democracy, real power resided with the military officials and Musharraf, none of whom were elected by the people.
Dictatorship Traits: The scenario in Pakistan reflects a common trend in dictatorships and monarchies, where elected bodies exist nominally, but actual power lies with unelected authorities, undermining the essence of people's rule.
Q2. In China, elections are held after every five years. Inspite of this, China does not have a democratic government. Why?
Ans.
Q3. In which way is the right to vote denied in Saudi Arabia and Fiji?
Ans.
Q4. Why has India never had a famine of the level which occurred in China in 1958-61?
Ans.Fig. Children affected in famine
Q5. ‘Democracy is based on consultation and discussion.’ Explain.
Ans.
Q6. Why is it not possible for the people to rule directly but through elected representatives?
Ans. The people cannot rule directly but only through their elected representatives because, firstly, modern democracies involve such a large number of people that it is physically impossible for them to sit together and take a collective decision. Secondly, even if they could, the citizens do not have the time, the desire or the skill to take part in all the decisions.
Q7. Is it possible for any country to become a perfect democracy? Give reasons.
Ans. No country is a perfect democracy as every democracy has to realize the ideals of democratic decision-making. This cannot be achieved once and for all. This requires a constant effort to save and strengthen democratic forms of decision-making. What we do as citizens can make a difference to making our country more or less democratic.
Q8. Why is Democracy considered the best form of government? Give three reasons.
Ans. Democracy is a more accountable form of government.
Q9. Explain any three differences between democratic country and non-democratic country?
Ans.
Q10. Explain any three features of democracy.
Ans. According to a Democracy—
(i) In a democracy, the final decision-making power must rest with those elected by the people.
(ii) A democracy must be based on free and fair elections, where those currently in power have a fair chance of losing.
(iii) In a democracy, each adult citizen must have one vote and each vote must have one value.
Q11. Why is Zimbabwe not considered a democratic country?
Ans.
Zimbabwe is not considered a democracy because of:
Single-Party Rule: The country has been governed by the ZANU-PF party since independence, with elections often marred by irregularities favoring the ruling party.
Election Issues: Opposition parties faced harassment, protests against the government were banned, and media outlets were controlled, limiting political freedoms.
Constitutional Changes: Amendments were made to concentrate power in the hands of the President and undermine the independence of the judiciary.
Lack of Political Freedoms: Basic rights such as freedom of expression and association were curtailed, and the government disregarded court judgments challenging its authority.
Democratic Principles: Zimbabwe's case underscores the importance of respecting citizens' rights and operating within constitutional limits for true democracy.
Political Equality: Democracy upholds the principle of political equality, where individuals, irrespective of their wealth or education, are regarded with equal status in society.
Active Participation: In a democratic system, citizens are not mere subjects ruled by authority; instead, they actively engage in governance, contributing to decision-making processes.
Responsibility: Even in moments of error or misjudgment, citizens in a democracy bear responsibility for their actions, fostering a sense of accountability and ownership in society.
Q13. ‘‘Democracy allows people to correct their own mistakes’’. Support the given statement with three points.
Ans.
1. Transparency and Accountability
2. Room for Correction
3. Public Discourse
4. Electoral Change
Q14. Explain any three major political changes that took place recently in India's neighbourhood?
Ans.
(i) Pakistan–General Musharaff led a military coup.
(ii) Nepal–In 2005 the new king dismissed the elected government.
(iii) Iraq–Sadaam Hussain's regime was overthrown.
Q15. What does ‘one person, one vote, one value’ mean? Name the countries who deny the equal right to vote.
Ans.
Principle of one person, one vote, one value is based on universal adult franchise. Universal adult franchise refers to the principle in democracy where every adult citizen, regardless of gender, race, religion, or socioeconomic status, has the right to vote in elections and participate in the democratic process.
Denial of Equal Voting Rights
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