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

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: 

Military Coup in Pakistan

1. Seizure of Power: General Pervez Musharraf led a military coup in October 1999, overthrowing a democratically elected government in Pakistan.

2. Self-Declaration: Musharraf declared himself the 'Chief Executive' initially and later assumed the title of President.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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. 

• Regular Elections: Elections in China occur every five years to elect the National People’s Congress (NPC), the country’s parliament.
• Appointment of President: The NPC holds the power to appoint the President of China.
• Composition of NPC: The NPC consists of nearly 3,000 members elected from various regions across China. Some members are also elected by the army.
• Candidate Approval: Candidates seeking to contest elections must first receive approval from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).
• Restrictions on Candidacy: Only members of the CCP or affiliated smaller parties were permitted to contest elections in 2002-03.
• Dominance of Communist Party: The government is consistently formed by the Communist Party, highlighting its enduring influence in China's political landscape.

Q3. In which way is the right to vote denied in Saudi Arabia and Fiji?
Ans. 

• In Saudi Arabia, women are denied the right to vote, which reflects a lack of gender-based political equality. 
• Similarly, in Fiji, the electoral system benefits indigenous Fijians over Indian Fijians, reducing the influence of the latter's votes. 
• Both examples highlight a denial of political equality, where certain groups are excluded from equal voting rights due to gender or ethnicity. 
• A core principle of democracy is that every adult citizen should have one vote of equal value, ensuring fairness and equality in the electoral process.

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. 

• Democracy operates on the principles of consultation and discussion, involving multiple individuals in decision-making processes.
• Democratic decisions entail the participation of numerous individuals through discussions and meetings, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.
• Through collaborative efforts, people can identify potential errors or shortcomings in decisions, contributing to better outcomes.
• Democratic decision-making may require more time due to extensive discussions, but this time investment is advantageous.
• Taking time over important decisions in democracy minimizes the likelihood of hasty or irresponsible choices, enhancing the overall quality of decision-making processes.

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.

• Right to Choose Rulers: Democracy affords people the fundamental right to select their leaders. If elected officials fail to perform satisfactorily, citizens have the power to vote them out in subsequent elections.
• Freedom of Speech: Democracy champions unparalleled freedom of expression. Individuals can openly voice their opinions, contributing to vibrant public discourse and diverse perspectives.
• Right to Life: In democracy, the right to life is protected, ensuring that states cannot arbitrarily punish individuals based on their choices. Authorities are bound to adhere to established rules and regulations, safeguarding the rights of citizens.

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. 

Q12. How does democracy in a country enhance the dignity of an individual? State three points.
Ans.Fig. Statue of dignity

• 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

• In democracy, mistakes can be openly discussed and addressed.
• There is transparency in decision-making processes, allowing for accountability.

2. Room for Correction

• Unlike in non-democratic governments, errors in policy or leadership can be corrected.
• The public has the power to demand changes or elect new leaders if necessary.

3. Public Discourse

• Democracy provides space for public discussion on governance and policy matters.
• Citizens can voice their concerns and opinions freely, fostering an informed society.

4. Electoral Change

• Through elections, citizens have the opportunity to hold leaders accountable and enact change.
• The electoral process allows for peaceful transitions of power based on the will of the people.

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

• Saudi Arabia: Until 2015, women were not allowed to vote.
• Estonia: Citizenship rules disadvantage the Russian minority, making it challenging for them to obtain voting rights.
• Fiji: The electoral system prioritizes indigenous Fijians, diminishing the value of votes from Indian-Fijians.