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Chapter Analysis
Intermediate20 pages • EnglishQuick Summary
This chapter 'Electoral Politics' explains the importance of elections in a democracy, how electoral competition works, and distinguishes democratic elections from non-democratic ones. It assesses the electoral process in India, from drawing constituency boundaries to counting votes and announcing results. The chapter also discusses the challenges of electoral malpractices and the role of the Election Commission in maintaining fair elections.
Key Topics
- •Importance of elections in a democracy
- •Free and fair elections
- •Role of the Election Commission
- •Electoral malpractices and challenges
- •Reservation of constituencies
- •Electoral competition
Learning Objectives
- ✓Understand the electoral process and its significance in a democracy.
- ✓Identify the challenges faced by Indian elections and assess their impact.
- ✓Evaluate the role and powers of the Election Commission.
- ✓Explain the concepts of electoral malpractices and propose potential solutions.
- ✓Discuss the importance of reserved constituencies for marginalized communities.
Questions in Chapter
Which of the following statements about the reasons for conducting elections are false?
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Match the following activities with their purposes.
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List all the different election-related activities mentioned in the chapter and arrange them in a time sequence.
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Additional Practice Questions
What is the purpose of having an Election Commission in India?
mediumAnswer: The purpose of the Election Commission in India is to ensure free and fair elections. It oversees and manages the electoral process, implements the code of conduct, and has the power to reprimand the government for any lapses during elections.
Discuss the importance of free and fair elections in a democracy.
mediumAnswer: Free and fair elections are crucial in a democracy as they reflect the true will of the people, provide legitimacy to the elected representatives, and ensure accountability of the government. They encourage political participation and help in the peaceful transfer of power.
Explain the challenges faced by the electoral process in India.
hardAnswer: The electoral process in India faces challenges like money power, criminalization of politics, familial control over political parties, lack of choices for voters, and unequal advantages for large parties. These issues compromise the fairness and competitiveness of elections.
What reforms can be suggested to improve the electoral process in India?
hardAnswer: Suggestions for electoral reforms include stringent laws to curb money power, banning candidates with criminal charges, transparent campaign funding, inner-party democracy, and enhanced voter awareness campaigns.
How does the reservation of constituencies for SC and STs impact Indian democracy?
mediumAnswer: Reserved constituencies for SC and STs ensure representation of marginalized communities in legislative bodies, allowing these communities to elect candidates who can voice their specific needs and concerns, thus making democracy more inclusive.