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

Q1. What were the steps taken by Musharraf in Pakistan to empower himself? [Important]

Ans: General Pervez Musharraf took several steps to consolidate his power in Pakistan:

• In October 1999, he led a military coup, overthrowing a democratically elected government.
• He declared himself the 'Chief Executive' and later became the President.
• In 2002, he held a controversial referendum that extended his term by five years.
• The referendum was widely criticized for fraud and manipulation.
• Musharraf introduced a 'Legal Framework Order' in 2002, amending the Constitution.
• This order granted him the power to dissolve national and provincial assemblies.
• Real authority rested with the military, undermining the elected representatives' power.

These actions significantly eroded democratic governance in Pakistan.

Q2. With reference to Zimbabwe, describe how the popular approval of rulers is necessary in a democracy but not sufficient.

Ans: Since gaining independence in 1980, Zimbabwe has held regular elections, consistently won by ZANU-PF, the party that led the liberation movement. Although President Robert Mugabe was popular, he faced accusations of using unfair tactics during elections. Key points include:

• The government amended the Constitution multiple times to increase the President's power and reduce accountability.
• Opposition party workers experienced harassment, and their activities were often disrupted.
• Public protests against the government were declared illegal.
• There were laws limiting the right to criticise the President.
• Media, including television and radio, were controlled by the government, promoting only the ruling party's perspective.

Q3. On the basis of the various examples given in the chapter, state what should be the four features of a democracy.

Ans: Four Features of a Democracy

• Final Decision-Making Power: The ultimate authority lies with elected representatives, ensuring that rulers are chosen by the people and held accountable.
• Free and Fair Elections: Elections must be competitive, providing genuine choices for voters, allowing them to replace current leaders through the electoral process.
• Universal Adult Franchise: Every adult citizen should have the right to vote, with each vote holding equal weight, promoting political equality and preventing discrimination.
• Rule of Law and Respect for Rights: A democratic government must operate within legal boundaries, respecting the rights and freedoms of all citizens. This includes allowing political opposition, free expression, and equal treatment under the law.

These features ensure a government is democratic by being accountable to the people, maintaining fair electoral practices, ensuring equal voting rights, and upholding fundamental rights.

Q4. Discuss the disadvantages of democracy.

Ans: Disadvantages of democracy:

• Instability: Frequent changes in leaders can lead to political instability.
• Low Morality: Political competition often overshadows moral considerations.
• Delays in Decision Making: Extensive consultation can slow down the decision-making process.
• Bad Decisions: Elected leaders may lack a clear understanding of the people's best interests, resulting in poor choices.
• Corruption: The competitive nature of elections can encourage corrupt practices among political parties.
• Illiterate Voters: In some developing countries, a lack of literacy and political awareness can lead to the election of unsuitable candidates.

Q5. How does democracy provide a method to deal with differences and conflicts?

Ans: In any society, differences in opinions and interests are natural, especially in diverse countries like India. These differences can lead to conflicts among various groups. Democracy offers a peaceful way to address these issues:

• No group is a permanent winner or loser: In a democratic system, different groups can coexist without one dominating the others.
• Encourages peaceful coexistence: Democracy allows various groups to live together harmoniously.
• Maintains unity: For a diverse nation like India, democracy is vital for keeping the country united.

Ultimately, democracy enhances the dignity of citizens and improves the quality of decision-making by involving everyone in the process.

Q6. Which characteristics make democratic government so popular?

Ans: Accountable Government: Democracy is unique because it prioritises the needs of the people rather than the arbitrary decisions of a ruler. It is designed for the people and ensures accountability in governance.

Consultation and Discussion: Democracy relies on consultation and discussion, allowing for timely corrections of mistakes. This enhances the quality of decision-making.

Managing Differences: Democracy offers peaceful resolutions to conflicts, making it effective for diverse nations like India, which has various languages, religions, and cultures. Through discussion, problems can be solved, promoting national unity.

Political Equality: Democracy is founded on the principle of political equality, guaranteeing equal rights for all citizens, regardless of wealth or education. This enhances the dignity of every individual.

• Democracy is accountable to the people.
• It encourages participation and dialogue.
• It fosters peaceful coexistence among diverse groups.

Q7. Write any five arguments in favour and five against democracy as a form of government.

Ans:

• Democracy ensures accountability among leaders.
• It improves the quality of decision-making.
• Democracy provides a method for resolving conflicts effectively.
• It promotes the dignity of all citizens.
• Democracy allows for the correction of mistakes.
• Frequent changes in leadership can lead to instability.
• Political competition often overshadows morality.
• Consulting many people can cause delays in decision-making.
• Corruption may arise due to electoral competition.
• Ordinary people might struggle to know what is in their best interest.

Q8. What is the significance of the rule of law and respect for rights in democratic country? State four points.

Ans: Significance of the rule of law and respect for rights in a democratic country:

• Prevention of Autocratic Rule: The rule of law ensures that leaders cannot exceed their authority. In Zimbabwe, the absence of legal limits led to autocratic governance. Upholding the rule of law promotes fair governance.
• Protection of Citizens’ Rights: Fundamental rights, such as free speech and assembly, are vital for democracy. Zimbabwe's suppression of these rights stifled political freedom. Respecting these rights allows citizens to engage fully in political life.
• Ensuring Fair Elections and Accountability: Fair elections rely on adherence to legal standards. Zimbabwe’s electoral manipulation illustrates how ignoring these rules can corrupt democracy. Following legal procedures helps ensure elections reflect the people's will.
• Institutional Checks and Balances: Independent institutions, like the judiciary, are essential for overseeing government actions. Zimbabwe’s pressure on judges demonstrated how weakening these institutions can lead to unchecked power. Strong checks and balances ensure all government branches remain accountable.

Q9. Why is democracy called a ‘government by discussion’?

Ans: Democracy is often called a "government by discussion" for several reasons:

• Participation and Debate: Democracy promotes active involvement of citizens in governance. Unlike autocratic systems, where decisions are made by a single ruler, democracies value a variety of opinions. This open dialogue ensures that different perspectives are considered before making decisions that impact society.
• Transparency and Accountability: Public officials in a democracy engage in discussions with citizens and stakeholders. This transparency is vital for holding leaders accountable, ensuring their actions reflect the people's will. Regular public consultations and debates maintain this accountability.
• Conflict Resolution: Discussion is a key tool for resolving conflicts in democracy. It creates an environment where diverse groups can express their concerns and negotiate solutions, aiming for balanced and fair outcomes.
• Informed Decision-Making: Debates and discussions contribute to well-informed decisions. By examining various viewpoints and evidence, democratic processes ensure that choices are based on a comprehensive understanding of the issues.

Overall, referring to democracy as a "government by discussion" underscores its commitment to inclusivity, openness, and collaborative problem-solving.

Q10. Democracy enhances the dignity of citizen. Justify this statement.

Ans: Democracy enhances the dignity of its citizens in several ways:

• It promotes equality, ensuring that all individuals are treated with respect, regardless of their wealth or education.
• Citizens are not merely subjects; they are active participants in governance, taking on leadership roles.
• Individuals are accountable for their actions, which fosters a sense of responsibility and ownership.
• Democracy allows for the correction of mistakes through public discussion, ensuring that errors are addressed transparently.
• It provides a peaceful means to resolve conflicts, allowing diverse groups to coexist without permanent winners or losers.

In a diverse society, such as India, democracy plays a crucial role in maintaining unity and harmony among its citizens.

Q11. Write some common features of the non-democratic countries.

Ans: Common features of non-democratic countries:

• Criticism of the government can lead to imprisonment, harassment, and other troubles for individuals.
• Governance is often through monarchies or military rule, with no elections allowed.
• Opposition parties are not tolerated, leading to a lack of political pluralism; only parties that support the government can exist.
• Independent trade unions are prohibited; only unions that align with government policies are permitted.
• Power is concentrated in the hands of dictators or military rulers, resulting in arbitrary detention, arrest, and execution without trial.

Q12. Give any four reasons why democracies resolve conflict in a better way than other forms of governments.

Ans: Democracies resolve conflict in a better way than other forms of governments for several reasons:

• Improved decision-making: Democracies enhance the quality of decisions through consultation and discussion.
• Peaceful conflict resolution: Conflicts are addressed through dialogue rather than force, promoting peaceful solutions.
• Accountability: Mistakes made by individuals or groups can be corrected, fostering a culture of responsibility.
• Forum for discussion: Democracies provide a platform for open consultations, allowing diverse opinions to be heard.

Q13. Despite its demerits why is democracy the most preferred form of government? Explain.

Ans: Despite its demerits, democracy is still the most preferred form of government because it is:

• Accountable Government: Democracy represents the people's interests, ensuring that governance is accountable and not dictated by a ruler.
• Consultation and Discussion: It relies on open discussion, allowing for timely corrections and improving decision-making quality.
• Conflict Resolution: Democracy provides peaceful solutions to conflicts, promoting unity in diverse societies like India.
• Political Equality: It guarantees equal rights for all citizens, enhancing their dignity regardless of wealth or education.
• Room for Correction: Mistakes can be acknowledged and corrected, fostering continual improvement in governance.
• Opportunity for Individual Flourishing: Citizens can pursue personal growth and fulfilment according to their abilities.

While democracy is not a perfect solution and may not resolve all issues, it offers a framework for better decision-making, respect for individual wishes, and the ability to correct mistakes, making it the best form of government available.

Q14. Why is democracy government a better government? Mention four reasons.

Fig: Democratic government.

Ans: A democratic government is considered superior for several reasons:

• Better Decision-Making: Democracy encourages consultation and discussion, leading to more informed decisions.
• Respect for Citizens: It values the wishes of the people, allowing diverse groups to coexist.
• Accountability: Democratic leaders must respond to the needs of the populace, ensuring they are held responsible for their actions.
• Correcting Mistakes: Democracies provide mechanisms for addressing errors, allowing for public discussion and the possibility of changing leaders or decisions.

These factors contribute to the belief that democracy is the best form of government.

Q15. What are the various aspects of democracy?

Ans: Democracy can be understood through three main aspects:

• Political Aspect: This involves government by consent and political equality. A democratic system requires regular elections and the presence of multiple political parties competing for power.
• Social Aspect: A democratic society promotes equality among its citizens. Discrimination based on religion, race, caste, or gender is unacceptable. Everyone should have equal access to shops, restaurants, and public spaces. The Constitution ensures that all individuals are treated equally under the law.
• Economic Aspect: Political democracy is meaningful only when paired with economic democracy. Successful democracies often implement welfare programmes to support impoverished communities.

Q16. Why did the Institutional Revolutionary Party in Mexico never lose any election till 2000?

Ans: The Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI) in Mexico won every election until 2000 due to several key factors:

• The PRI consistently secured victories, while opposition parties struggled to win.
• Government employees were required to attend PRI meetings.
• Teachers in government schools pressured parents to vote for PRI candidates.
• The media largely ignored opposition parties, focusing mainly on criticism.
• Polling booth locations were often changed last minute, complicating voting.
• The PRI invested heavily in its candidates' campaigns.