SST ( Political science ) for Class 10 ( Democratic Politics – || ) Short and Long Questions Answer

Q1. “There is urgent need to combat communalism”. Explain. [CBSE 2014]

Ans: Communal politics is based on the belief that religion is the main basis for social communities. Here are key points explaining the urgent need to combat communalism:

• Community Identity: Followers of a specific religion are seen as part of one community, sharing the same fundamental interests. Differences among them are often viewed as trivial.
• Political Dominance: A communal mindset can lead to a desire for political power. Majority communities may seek to dominate, while minority groups might wish to establish separate political identities.
• Violence and Conflict: Communalism can escalate into severe violence, such as riots and massacres, as seen in regions like UP, Bihar, and Gujarat.
• Threat to Unity: Communalism poses a threat not just to certain individuals but to the very essence of India as a nation. It undermines the idea of a diverse and inclusive society.

Q2. “In India women’s political representation is very low”. Justify.
Or
Explain the need for more representation for women as elected representatives. How can it be achieved?
Or
What is the status of women representation in India’s legislative bodies? [CBSE 2013]

Ans: The representation of women in India’s political landscape is alarmingly low:

• The percentage of elected women members in the Lok Sabha has never exceeded 14.36% of its total strength.
• In State Assemblies, the share of women is less than 5%.
• India ranks among the bottom nations globally in terms of women’s political representation, falling behind many developing countries in Africa and Latin America.
• Government cabinets are predominantly male, even when a woman holds the position of Chief Minister or Prime Minister.

To address this issue, it is crucial to:

• Implement legal measures to ensure a fair representation of women in elected bodies.
• Follow the example of the Panchayati Raj, which reserves one-third of seats for women in local government.
• Support the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Act, 2023), which reserves 33% of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies.

Q3. How has the principle of Universal Adult Franchise helped in combating casteism?

Ans: Universal Adult Franchise has played a significant role in reducing casteism in India through the following ways:

• Equal Voting Rights: All citizens aged 18 and above can vote, regardless of their caste, creed, colour, sex, religion, or belief.
• Political Mobilisation: The principle of one-person-one-vote has encouraged political leaders to actively seek support from various communities.
• Empowerment of Lower Castes: It has raised awareness among castes that were previously viewed as inferior, promoting their political engagement.

Q4. What were Gandhiji’s views regarding religion and politics? Explain.

Ans: Gandhiji believed that religion and politics are intertwined. He did not refer to specific religions like Hinduism or Islam, but to the moral values that underpin all faiths. His views can be summarised as follows:

• Religion should guide political ethics.
• Political actions must reflect moral principles from various religions.
• People should express their needs and interests as members of their religious communities.
• Political power can regulate religious practices to prevent discrimination.

Q5. ‘Political mobilisation on religious lines is a frequent form of communalism.’ Explain.

Ans: Political mobilisation on religious lines refers to the practice of rallying support based on religious identity. This often includes:

• Utilising sacred symbols and religious leaders to unite followers.
• Employing emotional appeals and fear tactics to strengthen political bonds.
• Focusing on the interests and emotions of one religious group over others during elections.

This approach can lead to a desire for political dominance, where:

• The majority community seeks to maintain control.
• The minority community may strive for a separate political identity.

Q6. Besides caste, which other factors do in matter in electoral politics ?

Ans: Besides caste, other factors that matter in electoral politics include:

• Voting by Community: Political leaders often encourage voters to cast their votes based on their community affiliations.
• Religious Mobilisation: This involves using religious symbols, leaders, and emotional appeals to unite followers of a particular religion in the political sphere. It often prioritises the interests of one religion over others.
• Government Performance: Voters assess the effectiveness of the political party and its agenda, alongside caste and community considerations.

Q7. Write the appropriate term:

Ans: 

• A person who believes that religion is the main basis of community is a Communalist.
• A person who advocates for equal rights and opportunities for both women and men is a Feminist.
• A person who does not discriminate against others based on their religious beliefs is a Secularist.

Long Answer Type Questions (5 Marks)

Q1. Name the movements that agitate for women’s rights. How have these movements helped in improving women’s conditions?

Ans: Feminist Movements have played a crucial role in advocating for women’s rights and improving their conditions. Key contributions include:

• Political Mobilisation: These movements have raised awareness about gender divisions, leading to greater participation of women in public life.
• Career Opportunities: Women now work in various fields such as science, medicine, engineering, and law, which were previously deemed unsuitable.
• Political Representation: In countries like Sweden, Norway, and Finland, initiatives such as reserved seats in the Lok Sabha have significantly increased women’s involvement in politics.

Overall, feminist movements have been instrumental in enhancing women’s roles and rights across different sectors.

Q2. Mention any four steps that can be undertaken to improve women’s representation in politics.
Or
Suggest any three steps to improve women’s participation in politics.

Ans: 

• Make it legally binding to ensure a fair proportion of women in elected bodies.
• Reserve a certain number of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies for women.
• Political parties should provide adequate representation for women members.
• Improve the literacy rate among women to encourage their participation in politics.

Q3. What is casteism? How is casteism in India different as compared to other societies?
Or
Describe any five features of the caste system prevailing in India.

Ans: Casteism refers to the social system in which people are divided into groups based on their birth, affecting their marriage, work, and dietary practices. In India, this system is particularly pronounced and differs from other societies in several ways:

• Social Organisation: People are organised into social groups, which influences their marriage and occupation.
• Rigidity: The Indian caste system is very rigid, with individuals expected to marry within their caste and avoid socialising with those from other castes.
• Hereditary Occupations: Unlike many societies where jobs can change, in India, occupations are often passed down through generations, sanctioned by rituals.
• Exclusion: The system promotes exclusion and discrimination against ‘outcaste’ groups, leading to practices like untouchability.
• Economic Links: Caste is closely tied to economic status, with upper castes generally enjoying better economic conditions compared to lower castes.

Q4. Mention any positive role of caste in politics.
Or
Describe the positive and negative aspects of the relationship between caste and politics.

Ans: Positive Role of Caste in Politics

• In some cases, the expression of caste differences in politics allows disadvantaged communities to demand their share of power.
• Caste politics has enabled Dalits and OBCs to gain better access to decision-making.
• Various organisations advocate for an end to discrimination, promoting dignity and access to resources.

However, it is important to note that focusing solely on caste can lead to negative outcomes:

• Politics based on caste identity can divert attention from critical issues like poverty, development, and corruption.
• Caste divisions may result in tensions and conflicts.

Q5. What is casteism? How is casteism in India different as compared to other societies?
Or
Describe any five features of the caste system prevailing in India.

Ans: Casteism refers to the social system in which people are divided into groups based on their birth, affecting their marriage, occupation, and diet. In India, casteism is distinct from other societies due to several key features:

• Extreme Division of Labour: The Indian caste system represents a severe form of occupational division based on birth.
• Hereditary Occupations: Unlike many societies where jobs can change, in India, occupations are traditionally passed down through generations, often enforced by rituals.
• Rigid Social Structure: Members of the same caste typically form a close-knit community, sharing similar jobs, marrying within their caste, and avoiding meals with those from other castes.
• Exclusion and Discrimination: The caste system often excludes and discriminates against ‘outcaste’ groups, leading to practices like untouchability.
• Economic Links: Caste is closely tied to economic status, with higher castes generally enjoying better economic conditions than lower castes.

Q6. Mention any positive role of caste in politics.
Or
Describe the positive and negative aspects of the relationship between caste and politics.

Ans: Positive Aspects of Caste in Politics:

• The expression of caste differences can empower disadvantaged communities to demand their share of power.
• Caste politics has enabled Dalits and OBCs to gain better access to decision-making roles.
• Many political and non-political organisations advocate for the end of discrimination against specific castes, promoting dignity and access to resources.

Negative Aspects of Caste in Politics:

• It can disrupt social harmony and lead to tensions and conflicts.
• Focusing solely on caste may divert attention from crucial issues like poverty and corruption.

Q7. Why is the idea of communal politics fundamentally flawed?

Ans: The idea of communal politics is fundamentally flawed for several reasons:

• Individual differences: People within the same religion often have varied interests and aspirations.
• Multiple identities: Each person has their own choices, roles, and identities that go beyond their religion.
• Diverse voices: Every community contains many voices, all of which deserve to be heard.
• Suppression of voices: Attempts to unify followers of a religion in non-religious contexts can silence many within that community.

Therefore, the notion that all members of a religion share the same interests is misleading and oversimplifies the complexity of human identities.

Q8. What are Feminist Movements? What were their major demands ? 
Or
What was the Feminist Movement ? Explain the political demands of the Feminist Movement in India.

Ans: Feminist Movements are organised efforts by various women’s groups aimed at achieving equality for women in both personal and family life.

• They demand equal rights for women across all areas of life.
• There have been protests worldwide for the extension of voting rights to women.
• These movements seek to enhance the political and legal status of women.
• They also advocate for improved educational and career opportunities for women.

Q9. Explain the relationship between religion and politics.
Or
How are religious differences expressed in politics ?

Ans: Views of Gandhiji: Gandhiji believed that religion and politics are inseparable. He referred to religion not as specific faiths like Hinduism or Islam, but as the moral values common to all religions. He argued that politics should be guided by ethical principles derived from these values.

Views of Human Rights Groups: Human rights organisations in India have highlighted that most victims of communal riots belong to religious minorities. They advocate for the government to implement special measures to safeguard these communities.

Women’s Movements: Women’s rights activists contend that family laws across various religions often discriminate against women. They call for the government to reform these laws to ensure greater equity.

These examples illustrate the complex relationship between religion and politics. While there can be positive influences, challenges arise when religious differences lead to discrimination or conflict.

Q10. How can religion influence politics? Explain.

Ans: Religion can influence politics in several ways:

• Ethics and Morality: Gandhiji believed that politics should be guided by ethical principles derived from various religions.
• Representation: Individuals should express their needs and interests in politics as members of their religious communities.
• Regulation: Political leaders may need to regulate religious practices to prevent discrimination and oppression.
• Equality: Such political actions are acceptable as long as they treat all religions equally.

However, problems arise when religion becomes the basis for nationalism, leading to communalism, where one religion is seen as superior to others. This can create divisions and conflicts within society.

Short Answer Type Questions (3 Marks)

Q1: “Belgium shifted from a unitary to a federal form of government”. What key changes were brought in the political system under the above mentioned shift ?
Ans: (i) Many powers of the central government were given to state governments of the two regions of the country.
(ii) The regional governments were given constitutional powers that were no longer dependent on the central government.
(iii) Apart from the central government and the state government there is a third kind of government known as community government. This government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues.

Q2: “Federations are contrasted with unitary governments”. Explain by giving examples from Sri Lanka and Belgium.
Ans: Under the unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the sub-units are subordinate to the Central government. The Central government can pass on orders to the provincial or the Local government. For example in Sri Lanka is a unitary country and the Union government passed a new law stipulating that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism. Whereas under federal system, the Central government cannot order the State government to do something. State government has powers of its own for which ‘ it i’s not answerable to the Central government. Both these governments are separately answerable to the people.

Q3: Mention any three features of an ideal federal system.
Ans: (i) The federal system which safeguards and promotes unity of the country, while at the same time accommodates regional diversity.
(ii) Governments at different levels should agree to some rules of power-sharing. They should also trust that each would abide by its part of the agreement.
(iii) An ideal federal system has both aspects : mutual trust and agreement to live together.

Q4: Mention any two subjects which are included in the union list. Explain by giving reasons why these are included in the union list.
Ans: Defence and foreign affairs are two subjects included in the Union List.
Reasons for their inclusion:

• National importance: Both subjects are crucial for the security and diplomatic relations of the country.
• Uniform policy: A consistent approach is necessary across the nation to effectively manage these areas.

Q5: ‘All states in the Indian Union do not have identical powers. Justify. –
Ans: (i) Some states like Jammu and Kashmir has its own Constitution.
(ii) Many provisions of the Indian Constitution are not applicable to this State without the approval of the State Assembly.
(iii) Indians who are not permanent residents of this State cannot buy land or house here. Similar special provisions exist for some other States of India as well.

Q6: “Federal power sharing is more effective today than it was in the early years after the Constitution came into force”. Explain.
Or
How is federal power sharing more effective today than in the early years? Explain.
Ans: Federal power sharing is more effective today than it was in the early years after the Constitution came into force.

• Centre-State relations: Initially, when the ruling party at the State level differed from that at the Centre, the Central Government often undermined State powers. They misused the Constitution to dismiss rival State governments, which weakened the spirit of federalism. This changed significantly after 1990 with the rise of regional political parties.
• Coalition Governments: The era of coalition governments began as no single party secured a clear majority in the Lok Sabha. Major national parties formed alliances with regional parties, fostering a new culture of power sharing and respect for State autonomy.
• Supreme Court Judgement: The Supreme Court of India established strict guidelines for imposing President’s rule. These guidelines made it challenging for the Central Government to dismiss State governments arbitrarily, further enhancing federal power sharing.

Q7: ‘The sharing of power between the Union government and the state governments is basic to the structure of the Indian Constitution’. Explain.
Ans: (i) Under a federal government, the fundamental provisions cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of the government and the same is true for India,
(ii) The Parliament cannot on its own change the fundamental structure of the Constitution. Any change in it has to be first passed by both the Houses of the Parliament with at least two-third majority. Then it has to be ratified by the legislatures of at least half of the total states.

Q8: Mention any four features of federalism.  
Or
Explain four features of the federal form of government.
Ans: (i) The power is divided between a central authority and its various constituent units.
(ii) Different tiers of the government govern the same citizens.
(iii) The fundamental provisions of the government cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of government.
(iv) It has a dual objective, i.e., to safeguard and promote the unity of the country, and also to accommodate the regional diversity.

Q9: “There is a need for power sharing within the states”. Explain.
Ans: (i) A vast country like India cannot be run only through these two-tiers. States in India are as large as independent countries of Europe. In terms of population, Uttar Pradesh is bigger than Russia, Maharashtra is about as big as Germany.
(ii) Many of Indian states are internally very diverse. There is thus a need for power sharing within these states.
(iii) The third tier is also required to principle of decentralisation of power.

Q10: Mention any four difficulties of the local government in India. 
Ans: (i) Most states have not transferred significant powers to the local governments.
(ii) There is a shortage of resources.
(iii) Elections are not held regularly.
(iv) The Gram Sabhas are not held regularly.

Long Answer Type Questions (5 Marks)

​Q11: Explain the major key features of federalism.
Or
Describe any four features of the federalism.
Ans: Key Features of Federalism:

• Multiple Levels of Government: Federalism involves two or more levels of government, typically a central government and state or provincial governments.
• Same Citizens, Separate Jurisdictions: Different tiers govern the same citizens, but each has its own jurisdiction over specific areas like legislation, taxation, and administration.
• Constitutional Authority: The Constitution defines the powers of each government level, ensuring their existence and authority are constitutionally protected.
• Rigid Constitution: Changes to fundamental constitutional provisions cannot be made unilaterally; they require consent from both levels of government.
• Judicial Oversight: Courts interpret the Constitution and resolve disputes between government levels, acting as an impartial arbiter.
• Financial Autonomy: Each government level has clearly defined sources of revenue to maintain its financial independence.
• Dual Objectives: Federalism aims to promote national unity while accommodating regional diversity, necessitating mutual trust and agreement between government levels.

Q12: ‘India is a federal country.’ Explain by giving examples.
Or
Explain the three fold distribution of legislative powers between the Union Government and the State Governments.
Or
Mention any five main features which make India a federal country.
Ans: (i) Division of powers: The Constitution demarcates the powers of the central and the state governments into different lists of subjects. There are three lists :
(a) Union List.
(b) State List.
(c) Concurrent List.
(ii) Three-tier system : As discussed earlier, under a federal government different tiers of the government govern the same citizens. This is true for India. In India, we have a three-tier system of government, i.e.,

• Union Government
•  State Government
• Local Self-Government.

(iii) Not equal powers to all administrative units : Most of the federations that are formed by ‘holding together’ do not give equal powers to its constituent units. Thus, all states in the Indian Union do not have identical powers. Some states enjoy a special status. Jammu and Kashmir has its own Constitution. Many provisions of the Indian Constitution are not applicable to this state without the permission of the state assembly.
(iv) Consent of both the levels of the government : Under a federal government, the fundamental provisions cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of the government, and the same is true for India. The Parliament cannot on its own change the fundamental structure of the Constitution. implementation of constitutional provisions and procedures. The same is true for India. In case of any dispute about the division of powers, the High Courts and the Supreme Court take a decision.
(v) Separate sources of income : A clear mention regarding the financial powers of the centre and the states has been made in the Indian Constitution. Income tax, excise duty, corporation tax, etc., are levied and collected by the central government, whereas land revenue, stamp duty, building tax, etc., come under the state government.

Q13: How is federalism practised in India ? Explain.
Or
‘The real success of federalism in India can be attributed to the nature of democratic politics in India.’ Explain.
Ans: Federalism in India is practised through several key mechanisms:

• Linguistic States: After independence in 1950, the boundaries of various states were altered to create new ones. This aimed to group people who spoke the same language and shared common culture, ethnicity, or geography.
• Language Policy: The Indian Constitution does not designate any language as the national language. While Hindi is recognised as an optional language, the central government does not impose it on states where other languages are predominant. Additionally, there are 22 other languages acknowledged as Scheduled Languages.
• Centre-State Relations: Strengthening relations between the Centre and states is crucial for federalism. Although the Constitution outlines the powers of the Union and state governments, the Union can still influence states in various ways. Historically, the central government has misused its powers to dismiss state governments led by rival parties, which undermines the essence of federalism and democracy. The judiciary has played a significant role in restoring the autonomy of state governments that were dismissed arbitrarily.

Q14: “The creation of linguistic states was the first and major test for democratic politics in our country.” Justify this statement.
Ans: In 1947, the boundaries of several old States of India were changed in order to create new States. This was done to ensure that people who spoke the same language lived in the same State. Some States were created not on the basis of language but to recognize differences based on culture, ethnicity or geography. These include States like Nagaland, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand. When the demand for the formation of States on the basis of language was raised, some national leaders feared that it would lead to the disintegration of the country. The Central Government resisted linguistic States for some time. But the experience has shown that the formation of linguistic States has actually made the country more united. It has also made administration easier.

Q15: Explain how law making powers are  shared between centre and states in India ? Mention three subjects each of Union List and State List.
Or
Describe the division of power between the central and the state governments in India.
Or
How are the powers divided between the states and centre? Explain with examples.
Ans: Union List includes subjects of national importance such as defence of the country, foreign affairs, banking, communications and currency. They are included in this list because we need a uniform policy on these matters throughout the country. The Union Government alone can make laws relating to the subjects mentioned in the Union List.
State List contains subjects of State and local importance such as police, trade, commerce, agriculture and irrigation. The State Governments alone can make laws relating to the subjects mentioned in the State List. Concurrent List includes subjects of common interest to both the Union Government as well as the State Governments, such as education, forest, trade unions, marriage, adoption and succession.
Both the Union as well as the State Governments can make laws on the subjects mentioned in this list. If their laws conflict with each other, the law made by the Union Government will prevail.
(i) Under a federal government, the fundamental provisions cannot be unilaterally changed by one level of the government and the same is true for India,
(ii) The Parliament cannot on its own change the fundamental structure of the Constitution. Any change in it has to be first passed by both Houses of the Parliament with at least two-third majority. Then it has to be ratified by the legislatures of at least half of the total states.

Q16: ‘Most federations that are formed by ‘holding together’ do not give equal power to its constituent units.’ Is it true for India? Explain.
Or
“Holding together federations” do not give equal power to its constituent units. Explain the statement with the help of examples in context to India.
Ans: Yes, the above statement is true for India.
(i) All states in the Indian Union do not have identical powers. Some states enjoy a special status. Jammu and Kashmir has its own Constitution. Many provisions of the Indian Constitution are not applicable to this state without the permission of the state assembly. Indians who are not permanent residents of this state cannot buy land or house here.
(ii) Similar special provisions exist for Assam and the hill states of North-East India.
(iii) There are some units of Indian Union which enjoy very little power. These are areas which are too small to become an independent state but which could not be merged with any of the existing states. These areas, like Chandigarh, or Lakshadweep or the capital city of Delhi, are called the Union Territories. These territories do not have the powers of a state. The central government has special powers in running these areas.

Q17: Why were the linguistic states created? What are their advantages?
Ans: (i) Common Language: Many states were created on the basis of language to ensure that people who speak the same language lived in the same state.
(ii) Common culture, ethnicity or geography: Some States were created not on the basis of language but to recognise differences based on culture, ethnicity or geography. These include States like Nagaland, Uttarakhand and Jharkhand.
Advantages:
The experience has shown that the formation of linguistic States has actually made the country, more united. It has also made administration easier.

Q18: Explain the language policy of Indian Federal. How is it different from Sri Lanka?
Or
Write any four characteristics of language policy of India. 
Or 
Describe in brief the language policy of India.
Ans: Creation of Linguistic States

• Common Language: Many states were formed to group people who speak the same language together.
• Cultural and Ethnic Recognition: Some states, like Nagaland, Uttarakhand, and Jharkhand, were created based on cultural, ethnic, or geographical differences.

Advantages:

• The formation of linguistic states has contributed to a more united country.
• It has simplified administration and governance.

Q19: ‘Restructuring the Centre-State relations is an important way in which the Indian Federalism has been strengthened in practice.’ Explain.
Ans: (i) After 90s, many regional political parties have emerged in many states of the country.
(ii) The regional parties are playing a very vital role in forming the Union government.
(iii) The judiciary has played a major role in improving the autonomy of the state governments because many a time, it has rescued the state governments which were dismissed in an arbitrary manner.

Q20: Point out one feature in the practice of federalism in India that is similar to any one feature that is different from that of Belgium.
Ans: One similar feature of Federalism between India and Belgium : India and Belgium are both holding together federations where the Central Governments tend to be more powerful vis-a-vis the states.
One different feature of Federalism between India and Belgium : In Belgium, there are three kinds of government – government at the centre, government at the state level and third kind of government is the community government. The community government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues.
But in India, there is no third kind of government, there is no community government.

Short Questions Answer

Q1. What led to the ethnic tension in Belgium? Why was it more acute in Brussels?

Ans: The ethnic tension in Belgium arose from the dynamics between the French-speaking and Dutch-speaking communities:

• The French-speaking community was relatively wealthy and influential.
• The Dutch-speaking community experienced economic development and education much later, leading to feelings of resentment.
• This tension escalated during the 1950s and 1960s.

In Brussels, the conflict was more pronounced because:

• Although Dutch speakers were a majority in Belgium, they were a minority in the capital.
• This demographic imbalance heightened feelings of marginalisation among Dutch speakers.

Q2. What is the ethnic composition of Belgium? [CBSE Sept. 2011] 
Or 
Describe the ethnic composition of Belgium. [CBSE 2012]

Ans: The ethnic composition of Belgium is quite complex: 

• 59% of the population lives in the Flemish region and speaks Dutch.
• 40% reside in the Wallonia region and speak French.
• The remaining 1% of Belgians speak German.

In the capital city, Brussels:

• About 80% of the population speaks French.
• Approximately 20% are Dutch-speaking.

Q3. What is the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka?

Ans: Sri Lanka has a diverse population with the following ethnic composition:

• Sinhalese: 74% of the population
• Tamils: 18%, primarily located in the north and east
• Muslims: A significant community

Among the Tamils, there are two main sub-groups:

• Sri Lankan Tamils: 13%, the indigenous Tamil population
• Indian Origin Tamils: 5%, descendants of indentured labourers brought from India

Q4. Mention any four steps which were taken by the Sri Lankan government to achieve majoritarianism.

Ans: 

• In 1956, an Act was passed making Sinhalese the only official language, ignoring Tamil.
• The government implemented preferential policies that favoured Sinhalese applicants for university places and government jobs.
• A new constitution mandated the state to protect and promote Buddhism.
• Citizenship was denied to estate Tamils, further marginalising this community.

Q5. What is a Civil War? Explain with context to Sri Lanka.

Ans: Civil War refers to a violent conflict between opposing groups within a country.

In the context of Sri Lanka, the civil war primarily involved the Sinhalese and Tamil communities. Key points include:

• The conflict resulted in the deaths of thousands from both communities.
• Many families fled the country as refugees, while others lost their livelihoods.
• This civil war caused significant setbacks to the country’s social, cultural, and economic life.
• The war lasted until 2009, leading to deep-seated distrust between the ethnic groups.

Q6. What is community government? Explain the concept of community government with context to Belgium.

Ans: A community government is a system where different social groups manage their own community affairs. The aim is to work together for the common good, without favouring any one group.

In Belgium:

• The community government is elected by individuals from one language group: Dutch, French, or German speakers, regardless of their location.
• This government has authority over cultural, educational, and language-related matters.
• It helps maintain peace between the major communities and prevents divisions based on language.

Q7. What is the relationship between democracy and power sharing?

Ans: Democracy gives every citizen the right to make decisions through their elected representatives. Power sharing involves dividing power among various social groups to ensure equal representation in governance.

Key points about the relationship between democracy and power sharing:

• Inclusivity: Power sharing allows individuals, regardless of cultural or language differences, to feel involved in the political system.
• Balance of Power: It prevents concentration of power in one group, promoting fairness and accountability.
• Representation: Different social groups can participate in decision-making, enhancing the democratic process.

Q8. How did the Sri Lankan and the Belgium government try to solve the ethnic problem? Or Explain any two important differences between the power sharing model accepted by Belgium and Sri Lanka.

Ans: Belgium and Sri Lanka approached their ethnic issues differently:

• Belgium leaders focused on respecting the feelings and interests of various communities, while the Sri Lankan government relied on majoritarianism.
• Belgium established a federal structure to share power between the central government and regional units, whereas Sri Lanka adopted a unitary government system.
• The Belgian approach helped avoid civic strife, while the majoritarianism in Sri Lanka led to a civil war.

Q9. “Both Belgium and Sri Lanka are democracies but they follow different systems of power sharing. ” Support the statement by giving three points of difference.

Ans: Type of Government: Sri Lanka operates as a unitary system, where the national government holds most powers. In contrast, Belgium has transitioned to a federal system, granting constitutional powers to regional governments.

Religion and Government: To accommodate various ethnic groups, Belgium established a community government. Conversely, Sri Lanka enacted laws to protect and promote Buddhism.

Language and Government: In 1956, Sri Lanka declared Sinhalese as the sole official language, while Belgium sought to protect and promote all languages spoken within its borders.

Q10. What is power sharing? Explain.

Ans: Power sharing refers to the distribution of power among different groups or regions within a government. It aims to ensure that various communities feel included and respected.

• Permanent distribution: Power sharing provides a lasting share of power to different communities.
• Respect for diversity: Leaders and citizens acknowledge the interests and feelings of various groups.
• Importance for democracy: This principle is crucial for the unity and growth of a democratic society.

Long Questions Answers

Q1. Describe the tension that existed between the Dutch and the French speaking people in Belgium. 
Or 
What were the two main causes of resentment in Belgium in 1960 ? How was the conflict solved?

Ans: The tension between the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking communities in Belgium stemmed from several key issues:

• Economic inequality: The French-speaking community, although a minority, was relatively wealthy and influential.
• Majority vs Minority: The Dutch-speaking majority felt disadvantaged, as they received less economic development and educational opportunities.
• Brussels’ unique situation: In the capital, the Dutch-speaking population was a minority, leading to heightened tensions.

To address these issues, the Belgian government made significant constitutional amendments:

• Between 1970 and 1993, the constitution was amended four times.
• These changes aimed to create an arrangement for peaceful coexistence among communities.

Q2. How were the ethnic problems solved in Belgium? Mention any four steps which were taken by the government to solve the problems? 
Or 
How is the political system in Belgium innovative and different from the other countries of the world? Explain any three points. 
Or 
Highlight any three measures adopted by the Belgian government to accommodate regional and cultural diversities.

Ans: The Belgian government took several steps to address ethnic problems and accommodate cultural diversities:

• Equal representation in the central government: The Belgian Constitution mandates an equal number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers. Special laws require majority support from both linguistic groups, preventing any community from making unilateral decisions.
• Decentralisation of power: Many powers were transferred from the central government to state governments in different regions. These state governments operate independently and are not subordinate to the central authority.
• Equal representation in Brussels: A separate government was established in Brussels, ensuring equal representation for both communities. This arrangement fosters cooperation and mutual respect.
• Community government: In addition to the central and state governments, a ‘community government’ was created. This government is elected by members of a specific language community (Dutch, French, or German) and has authority over cultural, educational, and language-related matters.

Q3. Why is Power sharing desirable? Or Why is power sharing necessary in democracy? Explain. 
Or 
“Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.” Justify this statement with three suitable points. 
Or 
Why is power sharing desirable? Give any three prudential reasons.

Ans: Power sharing is desirable for several reasons:

• Prudential reasons involve careful calculations of gains and losses. For instance, during the Nepal movement for democracy, even the Maoists were given a share of power, leading to peace.
• These reasons help to reduce conflict between social groups.
• They also promote political stability.
• While the majority imposing its will on the minority may seem appealing short-term, it can harm national unity in the long run. The tyranny of the majority can be detrimental to all.

Q4. Explain the major forms of power sharing in modern democracies. 
Or 
Explain four forms of participation in government under modern democratic system. 
Or 
Explain, how power is shared among different organs of government. 
Or 
Describe with examples the way in which power can be shared among different social and linguistic groups? 

Ans: Power sharing among different organs of government (Horizontal power sharing) is a key feature of modern democracies. It involves the distribution of power among various branches of government, specifically:

• Legislature: Responsible for making laws.
• Executive: Enforces laws and manages the day-to-day operations of the government.
• Judiciary: Interprets laws and ensures justice.

This arrangement is known as horizontal distribution of power because it allows these branches, which operate at the same level, to exercise distinct powers. Key aspects include:

• No single organ can wield unlimited power.
• Each organ has the authority to check the powers of the others.
• This creates a balance of power among institutions.

For example, while government officials exercise power, they remain accountable to the Parliament or State Assemblies. Similarly, although judges are appointed by the executive, they can review executive actions and legislative laws, ensuring a system of checks and balances.

Q5. What are the advantages of horizontal power sharing? Explain with the help of examples.
Or
What is meant by the horizontal distribution of power? Explain any two merits of this form of power sharing.

Ans: Horizontal power sharing refers to the equal distribution of power among different branches of government. This system ensures that no single branch can dominate or exercise unlimited authority.

• Equal Level of Government: The three branches—legislature, executive, and judiciary—operate at the same level.
• Checks and Balances: Each branch monitors the others, preventing any one from becoming too powerful.
• Accountability: In India, for instance, ministers and officials must answer to Parliament or state legislatures, while judges, appointed by the executive, can review executive actions and legislative laws.

This arrangement promotes a balanced distribution of power, fostering a more democratic governance structure.

Q6. Explain the power sharing arrangements among the political parties and pressure groups.

Ans: Power sharing arrangements among political parties and pressure groups

• Democracy allows for power to be shared among various political parties and pressure groups.
• Citizens have the choice to select their rulers through elections, ensuring that power does not concentrate in one group.
• Over time, power is distributed among parties representing different ideologies and social groups.
• Parties may form alliances to contest elections, leading to a coalition government if successful.
• Pressure groups, such as those representing traders, farmers, and workers, also influence government decisions.
• These groups participate in committees or sway the decision-making process, contributing to power sharing.
• In some democracies, social groups, including religious and linguistic communities, are represented through legal arrangements.
• Examples include ‘reserved constituencies’ that ensure representation for socially weaker sections.

Q7. How is a federal government better than a unitary government? Explain with examples of Belgium and Sri Lanka.

Ans: Federalism is a system of government where power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units. In contrast, a unitary government centralises all power within a single authority.

• The leaders in Belgium addressed ethnic tensions by establishing a federal government that respects the interests of different communities.
• In Sri Lanka, the government attempted to resolve issues through majoritarianism, which ultimately failed.
• Belgium’s approach helped avoid civil strife, while Sri Lanka’s majoritarianism led to a civil war.

Q18. What are some of the basic elements of Belgium model of power sharing ? Write any three.
Or
Explain any three elements of the Belgium model of Power sharing. [CBSE 2013]

Ans: Basic elements of the Belgium model of power sharing:

• Equal representation: The constitution mandates that the number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers in the central government must be equal. This ensures that no single community can make decisions alone.
• Decentralised powers: Many powers of the central government are transferred to the state governments of the two regions. These state governments operate independently and are not subordinate to the central government.
• Brussels’ governance: Brussels has its own government, with equal representation for both communities. The French-speaking community accepted this arrangement because the Dutch-speaking community also agreed to equal representation at the central level.