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 or candidate can:

• Bribe or threaten voters.
• Appeal to voters based on caste or religion.
• Use government vehicles, aircraft, or officials during the election.
• Once elections are announced, Ministers must not lay foundation stones, make significant policy decisions, or promise public facilities.
• Use government resources for campaigning or polling.

If these rules are violated, a candidate's election can be annulled by the court, even after being declared elected.

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 operates independently and cannot be removed by the executive for political reasons.
• 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 they 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, especially in campaigning and publicity.
2. Criminal Backgrounds: In some areas, candidates with criminal connections have been able to push out others from the electoral race and secure party tickets due to their influence.
3. Political Dynasties: Political parties are often dominated by certain families, making it difficult for new or independent candidates to emerge and compete fairly.

Q8. Mention any three techniques of an election campaign.  [CBSE 2010]
Ans: Three common techniques of election campaigning are:

1. Contacting Voters Directly: Candidates personally meet and interact with voters to gain support.
2. Holding Public Meetings and Rallies: Parties organize gatherings where leaders address the public and highlight their agendas.
3. Using Media: Candidates and parties use newspapers, television, and now social media to promote their campaign messages.

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 the Scheduled Tribes (ST) can contest elections. Currently, in the Lok Sabha:

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

Note: The number of reserved seats is subject to change based on periodic delimitation and population data.

This system helps strengthen democracy by:

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