RBSE Class 11 Political Science Important Questions Chapter 3 Election and Representation

Rajasthan Board RBSE Class 11 Political Science Important Questions Chapter 3 Election and Representation Important Questions and Answers. 

RBSE Class 11 Political Science Important Questions Chapter 3 Election and Representation

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Election And Representation Class 11 Extra Questions And Answers Question 1. 
Why do we need elections?
Answer: 
1. Without elections, democracy is not possible and the rule of the people is neither possible nor desirable.

2. Without elections, it is not possible to select the representatives. It is not possible for all the people to sit at one place and select the representatives on the basis of knowledge and education. Hence, elections are essential for a democratic system.

 

Election And Representation Class 11 Important Questions Question 2. 
Write down the functions of election in a democratic state.
Answer: 

1. Elections give chance to voters to take part in the political affairs of the country.
2. Through elections, voters can choose who will form the government.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Important Questions Question 3. 
Why are electoral reforms necessary in India?
Answer: 
Electoral reforms are necessary in India :

1. For the uphold and maintenance of value system
2. For debarring criminals from contesting elections 

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Extra Questions Question 4. 
Mention any two features of the electorate system in India.
Answer: 

1. In India, joint system of election is adopted.
2. Secret ballot system exists in India.

Election And Representation Class 11 Questions And Answers Question 5. 
State any two qualifications of a voter in India. {Imp.)
Answer: 

1. He must be a citizen of India.
2. He must not be less than 18 years of age.

Election And Representation Class 11 Extra Questions Question 6. 
Describe any one test of a good electoral system.
Answer: 
For a successful electoral system, the Election Commission should be completely independent and the government should not have any control over it.

Important Questions Of Election And Representation Class 11 Question 7.
What is the countermanding of election?
Answer: 
In an election, if a candidate dies, election in that constituency is countermanded. Countermanded means postponement of election in the event of the death of a candidate.

Election And Representation Important Questions Question 8. 
What is the number of Lok Sabha Constituencies in your state and the neighboring two states?
Answer: 

1. Haryana 10 seats
2. Punjab 13 seats
3. Himachal Pradesh 4 seats

Extra Questions Of Election And Representation Class 11 Question 9. 
So far, how many Lok Sabha elections have been conducted by the Election Commission?
Answer: 
So far, 17 elections to the Lok Sabha have been conducted by the Election Commission.

Election And Representation Extra Questions Question 10. 
What do you understand by Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer: 
By Universal Adult Franchise, we mean that every citizen, both male and female, above the age of maturity, irrespective of caste, colour, creed, property, education, profession, etc., is entitled to enjoy the right to vote in the election. The age of attaining maturity is fixed by the state. In England and in India, it is 18 years.

Class 11 Election And Representation Extra Questions Question 11. 
Give two advantages of Universal Adult Franchise.
Answer: 

1. Political Education: An important advantage of Adult Franchise is that it gives political education to the people. As the people go to the poll periodically, they get an opportunity to receive political education.
2. Spirit of Self-respect: Through the system of Adult Franchise, the people develop a spirit of selfrespect. They think of themselves as an important part of the machinery of the state.

 
Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Important Questions Answers Question 12. 
Give any two arguments against Universal Adult Franchise.
Answer: 

1. Uneducated should not be given the Right to vote: Right to vote is not only a right but also a responsibility. Educated persons can perform this responsibility very well.
2. Citizens are not equal: All citizens are not equal. Some are wise from their very birth and others are fools. So all citizens cannot be given the right to vote.

Ch 3 Political Science Class 11 Extra Questions Question 13. 
Describe the composition of the Election Commission of India.
Answer: 
The Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and such number of other Election Commissioners that the President may fix time to time. At present, there is a Chief Election Commissioner and two other members in the Election Commission.

Class 11 Political Science Chapter 3 Short Question Answer Question 14. 
Mention two functions of the Election Commission.
Answer: 

1. The Election Commission supervises, directs and controls the election process.
2. The Election Commission fixes the time-table for the election.

Class 11 Political Science Election And Representation Extra Questions Question 15. 
Mention any two stages of the electoral process in India.
Answer: 

1. Electoral Notification. The electoral process is formally set into motion by a presidential announcement calling upon electors to elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha.
2. Filling of Nomination Paper: The Election Commission fixes the last date for filling the nominations for election.

Election And Representation Class 11 One Mark Questions Question 16. 
Discuss two techniques of election campaign in India.
Answer: 

1. Every main political party and sometimes independent candidates issue election manifestoes.
2. Political parties and candidates arrange public meetings and processions, by which they try to persuade the voters in their favour through their speeches and personalities.

Election And Representation Class 11 Cartoon Based Questions Question 17. 
Explain any two changing characteristics of Indian Electorate.
Answer: 
Various important changes have taken place in the character of Indian electorate. Two important changes are as follows:

1. The Indian voter has become more politicised. Indian electorates are now taking more interest in the political activities of the country and are now more politically conscious.
2. Indian electorates are more concerned with the contemporary events and problems than with the past achievements or activities of the parties. 

Class 11 Election And Representation Important Questions Question 18. 
Describe any two tests of a good electoral system.
Answer: 
1. Independence of Election Commission. For the successful electoral system, the Election Commission should be completely independent and the government should not have any control on the Election Commission.

2. Check on the misuse of official machinery. For the successful electoral system, there should be checking on the misuse of official machinery so that the ruling party does not get undue advantage in the election.

Election And Representation Class 11 Short Questions And Answers Question 19. 
Mention four advantages of Single Transferable Vote System.
Answer: 

1. Every class or party gets proper representation.
2. Despotism of one party is not established.
3. No vote goes waste.
4. Legislature becomes a true mirror of public opinion.

Election And Representation Class 11 Cartoon Explanation Question 20. 
What is meant by Territorial Representation?
Answer: 
In a Territorial Representation System, total electorate of the country is divided into territorial units called constituencies, which elect one or more representatives to the legislature.

Election And Representation Class 11 Very Short Questions And Answers Question 21. 
What is direct election? Give an example of direct election.
Answer: 
In the system of direct election, the voters directly participate in election and elect their representatives. In India, all members of the State assemblies and Lok Sabha are elected directly.

Chapter 3 Election And Representation Question Answer Question 22. 
State any three qualifications of a voter.
Answer: 

1. He must be a citizen of India.
2. He must not be less than 18 years of age.
3. He should not be disqualified by law (Representation of the People Act, 1951).

Questions On Election And Representation Class 11 Question 23. 
Write two demerits of direct election.
Answer: 

1. Direct election means political excitement which leads to the election of undesirable candidates. The voters are easily carried away or misled by clever orators.
2. Direct election increases the election expenditure which entails a heavy burden on the public purse.

Class 11 Political Science Election And Representation Question Answer Question 24. 
Mention two merits of Functional Representation.
Answer: 

1. On the basis of functional representation, all the aspects of national life get representation.
2. On the basis of functional representation, each profession gets representation in the legislature.

Election And Representation Class 11 Notes Question 25. 
What is meant by Minority Representation?
Answer: 
In the simple majority system of representation, minorities do not get sufficient representation in the legislative body of their country. The term ‘minority representation’ means the provision of some special devices through which all the minorities get sufficient representation in the elective bodies of the country. Many methods have been suggested for the representation of minorities. Any of them suitable in the particular conditions of a country can be adopted.

Question 26. 
What do you understand by the Proportional Representation System?
Or
How does Proportional Representation ensure representation to the minorities?
Answer: 
Proportional representation aims at securing for each group or party, representation in the legislature in proportion to voting strength. Under this system, the majority of voters should have majority of the representatives but a minority of the electors should have a minority of the representatives. None of the groups shall be deprived of its representation and shall be represented according to the strength of its following. This system removes the defects of Single Member System according to which, a successful candidate would necessarily have the majority of votes and the other votes that were not cast in his favour went unpresented.

Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. 
Write a short note on the List System of Proportional Representation.
Answer: 
List System is one of the methods of proportional representation. In the list system, multiple-member constituencies are formed. Under this system, the election is not contested by the candidates but by the political parties. Each party can put up as many candidates as the seats to be filled in. Each party presents a list of its candidates and the names of candidates are written in the list in accordance with the wishes of the party. Each voter is given one vote and he can cast this vote in favour of any list.

It means that the voter does not cast his vote in favour of a candidate, rather he casts his vote in favour of the party. After the elections are over, the required quota is found out. The quota is determined in the same way as is determined in case of single transferable vote system. After this, the votes cast in favour of each list are counted and this way, the candidates are declared elected.
(Election and Representation] 

Question 2. 
What do you understand by Proportional Representation? Name any two countries where this system is functioning.
Answer: 
Proportional Representation aims at securing for each group or party, representation in the legislature in proportion to voting strength. Under the system, the majority of voters should have majority of the representatives but a minority of the electors should have a minority of the representatives. None of the groups shall be deprived of its representation and shall be represented according to the strength of its following. This system removes the defects of Single Member System according to which, a successful candidate would necessarily have the majority of votes and the other candidates who did not vote for him went unrepresented.
There are two methods of Proportional Representation:
(1) Single Transferable Vote System or Hare Scheme

(2) List System Methods of the system of Proportional Representation do ensure representation to minorities in proportion to their voting strength. Proportional Representation system nowadays exists in America and Canada.

Question 3. 
What do you understand by the minority representation? Mention any two methods of minority representation.
Or
What is the problem of minorities representation? Mention any one method of minority representation.
Answer: 
The issue of minority representation is of special significance in a country which is inhabited by several socio-cultural minorities based on religion, caste, language, etc. The term ‘minority representation’ means the provision of some special devices through which all minorities get sufficient representation in the elective bodies of the country. Many methods have been suggested for the representation of minorities. Any of them suitable in the particular conditions of a country can be adopted. Methods of Minority Representation
There are a number of methods of minority representation:
(i) Proportional Representation System:
Proportional Representation System aims at giving representation to various minorities in proportion to the votes polled by them. Under this method, none of the groups shall be deprived of its representation and shall be represented according to the strength of its following.

(ii) Limited Vote System: Under this system, multi-member constituencies are required. Each voter is allowed to cast a smaller number of votes than there are seats to be contested. A voter has to distribute his votes among as many candidates as there are votes to be cast.

Question 4. 
Explain the Single Transferable Vote System.
Answer: 
Single Transferable Vote System is also called the Hare Scheme or Andre Scheme. This system requires multi-member constituencies. The minimum number of seats in a multi-member constituency is three. The voter has only one vote but he can indicate on the ballot paper his first preference, second preference, third preference and so on. The voter casts his vote in favour of many candidates.

If the candidate who is given first preference vote by the voter is not elected, then his vote is transferred to his second preference, and if the candidate of second preference is not elected, then the vote will be transferred to his third preference. This way the vote will go on transferring till the candidate of the voter’s choice is not elected. In order to get elected, a candidate has to obtain a quota of votes. According to Hare, the method for determining the quota is as follows:
Total number of valid polled
Quota   \(=\frac{\text { Total number of valid polled }}{\text { No. of seats }+1}+1\)

Andre has given another method of finding out the required quota which is as follows:
Total votes cast Quota \(=\frac{\text { Total votes cast }}{\text { No. of seats }}\)

Question 5. 
Explain Functional Representations.
Answer: 
In almost all the countries, the system of Territorial Representation has been adopted.
G.D.H. Cole and a few writers are of the opinion that this system of representation is wrong. They are of the view point that the same representative cannot truly represent different interests and professions. They are of the view that a person belonging to a particular profession being their representative alone can protect the interests of the people of his own profession.

They uphold this view on the ground that he possesses the best knowledge of his own profession. There are practical difficulties involved in the functional representation. What should be the principle according to which the number of representatives are assigned to each profession or vocation? But if number is to be the basis of such representation, one group would predominate. Thus, an equitable representation of various professions would be impossible.

Question 6. 
What is Indirect Democracy?
Answer: 
In Indirect democracy, people participate in law-making indirectly. People elect some representatives and these representatives act according to the wishes of the people. Their main aim is to promote the welfare of the people. They frame laws for the State and run the administration in the best interests of the people. The entire country is divided into equal electoral constituencies and from each constituency, one representative is elected. The representatives are elected for a fixed period and after the expiry of their term, fresh elections are held. This system prevails in almost all the countries of the world today.

Question 7. 
What do you understand by direct democratic devices? Mention one device of direct democracy.
Answer: 
Direct democracy is the real or true democracy. In such a system of government, the people directly participate in the government of the country. The system prevailed in the past in India, Rome and Greek City States. The population of States used to be very less in those days and very few people enjoyed the rights of citizenship. It was possible for the people to assemble at a particular place for the purpose of law-making in those times. But it is not possible to practise direct democracy completely in the present age. Some devices have been used in certain countries to remove the defects of Indirect democracy. Switzerland is famous for the use of these democratic devices. These devices are- Initiative, Referendum, Recall and Plebiscite.

Question 8. 
Explain any two devices of direct democracy.
Answer: 
The following are the two devices of direct democracy:
1. Initiative:
This device gives the power to the voters to get the law passed in accordance with their wishes. If a specified number of voters demand the making of a particular law, the legislature cannot reject it of its own. If the legislature makes a law according to the demand of the people, it is good, and if the legislature does not agree with the view-point of the voters, then the view point of the entire electorate is sought. If the majority of the voters favour the law, then it is to be passed by the legislature.

2. Referendum:
The method of referendum gives the final authority to the people to accept or reject the laws passed by the legislature. If the legislature passes a law which is not in accordance with the wishes of the people, the people can stop the execution of such a law. The system prevailing in Switzerland is that the opinion of the people is sought before the execution of laws.

Question 9. 
Distinguish between direct and indirect democracy.
Answer: 
Democracy is of two types-direct democracy and indirect democracy. Following are the differences between the two:

1. In direct democracy, people directly participate in the government of the country, while in indirect democracy, people indirectly participate in the government.
2. In direct democracy, people directly participate in law-making while in indirect democracy, participation in law-making is indirect.
3. Selection of magistrates is done directly in direct democracy while in indirect democracy, selection of magistrate is done indirectly.
4. In direct democracy, the institutions of initiative, referendum and recall exist, but no initiative and referendum is present in indirect democracy.

Question 10. 
What do you understand by Territorial Representation? Mention any two merits of the system.
Answer: 
Territorial Representation is adopted by most of the modern democratic States. Territorial representation means representation based on territorial divisions. In this system, the total electorate of the country is divided into territorial units called constituencies, with more or less equal number of voters. Territorial constituencies are of two types-Single member and multi-member constituencies.

A single-member constituency elects one representative while multi-member constituencies elect more than two representatives. But in practice, single member constituency is adopted in majority of the states.
Merits:
Two merits of the territorial representation are as follows:

1. Simple System: The method of territorial representation is a very simple method of election and even the ordinary man understands it.
2. National Integration: Territorial representation secures the representation of the whole population and thus helps in the process of national integration.

Question 11. 
Write a short note on Adult Franchise in India.
Answer: 
Article 324 of the Constitution lays down that the elections to the Lok Sabha and to the Legislative Assembly of each state shall be held on the basis of Universal Adult Franchise. In India, Universal Adult Franchise was introduced and followed in 1950. Every person, both male and female, who is a citizen of India and is not less than 18 years is entitled to enjoy the right to vote in elections. A citizen of India of eighteen years who is otherwise disqualified on the grounds of non-residence, insanity, corrupt practice, is not entitled to be registered as a voter.

Question 12. 
How is the independence of the Election Commission of India ensured?
Answer: 
To ensure the independence of the Election Commission for fair election, the Constitution of India has made some provisions. These provisions are as follows:

(i) The Election Commission is a statutory body which enjoys constitutional sanction. The existence of the Commission does not depend upon the sweet will of the Union Government. It is the creation of the Constitution and the Union Government cannot abolish it as and when it so desires.

(ii) The Chief Election Commissioner cannot be removed from his office except in like manner and on the like grounds as a judge of the Supreme Court, and other Election Commissioners cannot be removed from office except on the recommendation of the Chief Election Commissioner.

(iii) The conditions of service of the Chief Election Commissioners cannot be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment.

Question 13. 
Write a short note on Multi-Member Commission.
Or
Explain the composition of the Election Commission.
Answer: 
Art. 324 of the Constitution lays down that the Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and a number of other Election Commissioners that the President may from time to time fix. The appointment of Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners is made by the President. Before each general election, the President also appoints, in consultation with the Election Commission, such Regional Commissioners as he considers necessary to assist the Election Commission.

At present the Election Commission is a multi-member body consisting of three members. The tenure and other service conditions of the Election Commission are determined by the President. Generally, the Election Commissioner is appointed for a period of six years. The conditions of service of the Chief Election Commissioner shall not be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment.
 
Question 14. 
How does the Election Commission ensure fair and free elections?
Answer: 
The Election Commission ensures fair and free election by the following ways:

1. The Election Commission keeps a check on the role of money.
2. The Election Commission decides where polling booths should be set up so that electorates are not required to travel a long distance.
3. The Election Commission ensures that only those persons cast their vote, who are entitled to it.
4. The Election Commission orders a fresh election in a Constituency or a polling booth if malpractices have vitiated the electoral process.
5. The Election Commission prepares a Code of Conduct for all political parties and independent candidates who are contesting elections.

Question 15.
List any four functions of the Election Commission.
Or
Describe any four functions of the Election Commission.
Answer: 
(1) The Election Commission supervises, directs and controls the elections. Such elections include elections to Parliament, the legislature of every state and to the offices of President and Vice-President.

(2) The Election Commission prepares electoral rolls and delimitations of constituencies. It also considers the objections raised in this regard. Revision of electoral rolls takes place before every general elections.

(3) The Election Commission appoints returning officers and assistant returning officers to conduct the election.

(4) The Election Commission allots election symbols to political parties and to the independent candidates. If there is any dispute or controversy about the symbol, an appeal against the decision of the Election Commission can be made to the Supreme Court.

Question 16. 
What is the salary and term of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners?
Answer: 
In December 1993, the Indian Parliament passed the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners (Conditions of Service) Amendment Act, 1993. As per the provisions of the Act, the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners are paid a salary equal to the salary of a judge of the Supreme Court. Thus, each of them is paid. 2,50,000 per month as salary.

The Act further provides that the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner holds office for a term of six years from the date on which he assumes his office. But if the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner attains the age of sixty-five years before the expiry of the term of six years, he shall vacate his office on the date on which he attains the said age.

Question 17. 
Suggest any four reforms which ! may help to improve the electoral I process in India. (Imp.)
Answer: 
For free and fair elections, the Election Commission should adopt the following measures:

1. The Election Commission should prepare electoral rolls properly. The electoral rolls should be open for additions and deductions every three months after the general revision is completed.
2. The Election Commission should enforce rules of conduct vigorously.
3. Every effort should be made to check the role of money in elections.
4. The Election Commission should create such conditions so that voters can cast their votes without any fear.

Question 18. 
Which four conditions are necessary for the successful functioning of electoral system in India?
Answer:
The following four conditions are essential for the successful functioning of electoral system in India:
(1) Independence of Election Commission: For the successful functioning of electoral system in India, the Election Commission should be completely independent and the government should not have any control on the Election Commission.

(2) Check on the misuse of official machinery:
There is an urgent need for checking the misuse of official machinery so that the ruling party does not get undue advantage in the elections. For this purpose, following suggestions are given-

• The election should be held under a care-taker government.
• Ban should be imposed on issuing discretionary grants.
• Advertisement in newspapers on government expenses should be banned.
• Election meetings should not be arranged with the help of official machinery, etc.

(3) Check on the growth of money power: In India, money plays a very important role in the election. To check the role of money power in election, the spread of black money should be checked. Proper ceiling on election expenses should be strictly imposed.
 
(4) Provision of Identity Card: To eliminate bogus voting, identity cards should be given to the voters. No one should be allowed to enter a polling station without showing his/her identity card.

Question 19. 
Mention any four stages in the election process of India. (Imp.)
Answer: 
Following are the four stages of the electoral process in India:
(i) Electoral Notification: The electoral process is formally set into motion by a presidential announcement calling upon electors to elect their representatives to the Lok Sabha. At the same time, the Election Commission issues notification specifying the time-table for nominations, scrutiny, withdrawals and polling.

(ii) Filing of Nomination Paper: The Election Commission fixes the last date for filling the nominations for the election. The nomination papers of the candidates are filed with the returning officer appointed by the Election Commission.

(iii) Scrutiny of Nomination Papers: After the receipt of nominations, the nomination papers are scrutinised on a date already fixed by the Election Commission. The nomination papers found not in order are rejected by the returning officer.

(iv) Withdrawal of Nominations: Once the scrutiny is over, the candidates are given a date for withdrawal. If any candidate decides not to contest elections, he can withdraw his nomination at this stage. After the withdrawals, the returning officer of the constituency publishes the list of the remaining contestants in alphabetical order of their names.

Question 20. 
Write a short note on Chief Electoral Officer.
Answer: 
Every state has a Chief Electoral Officer. He is an officer of the state government. The Chief Electoral Officer is nominated by the Election Commission in consultation with the state government. The Chief Electoral Officer supervises the preparation, revision and correction of all electoral rolls in the state. He also supervises the conduct of all elections in the state. The District Election Officer works under the supervision, direction and control of the Chief Electoral Officer.

Question 21. 
What is the composition of the Election Commission of India?
Or
Describe the method of appointment, tenure and procedure of removal of the Chief Election Commissioner of India.
Answer: 
The Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and such number of other Election Commissioners that the President may hum time to time fix. The appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners is made by the President. Before each general election, the President also appoints, in consultation with the Election Commission, such Regional Commissioners as he considers necessary to assist the Election Commission. The tenure and other service conditions of the Election Commission are determined by the President. Generally, the Election Commissioner is appointed for a period of six years. 

The conditions of service of the Chief Election Commissioner shall not be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment. The Election Commissioner is removed from his office by an order of the President after an address by each House of Parliament supported by a majority of the total membership of the House and by a majority of not less than 2/3rd of the members of the House present and voting has been presented to the President in the same session for such removal on the ground of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.

Question 22. 
What structural changes can be introduced to improve the functioning of the Election Commission?
Answer: 
The following structural changes will go a long way in improving the functioning of the Election Commission:

• It must be made a multi-member body. It should consist of one Chief Election Commissioner and four Election Commissioners.
• It should be strengthened with commensurate powers to discharge its various functions.
• It should be broad-based involving specialists for specialised functions.
• It should be vested with more administrative and judicial powers to act as a deterrent to those who indulge in malpractices during elections.
• It should be made completely independent of Government control.
• The appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners should be made by the President out of the panel prepared by the Parliament.

Question 23. 
Discuss four techniques of election campaign in India.
Answer: 
1. Every main political party and sometimes independent candidates issue election manifesto. By comparing the election-manifestoes of the various political parties, voters can understand the view and policies of different parties on different issues.
 
2. Political parties and candidates arrange public meetings and processions, by which they try to persuade the voters in their favour through their speeches and personalities.

3. Wall paintings, posters and big leaflets are other important techniques of election campaign.

4. In the present age, the most sophisticated way of campaigning is to broadcast speeches of leaders of political parties on T.V. and Radio.

Question 24. 
Mention any four drawbacks in Indian electoral system. (Imp.)
Answer: 
Following are the major drawbacks in Indian electoral system:
1. The Distortion of Seat-vote Ratio: The first and foremost defect of the present electoral system is that there is no relationship between the votes secured by a party and its strength in the Assembly or the Parliament. The number of seats secured by a particular party is not proportionate to the votes polled in their favour.

2. Money Power: Another important drawback of Indian electoral system is the growing influence of money in elections. The expenses incurred on elections are so huge that parties tend to give ticket to a millionaire. The high cost of electioneering has resulted in corrupt practices.

3. Independent Candidates: Independent candidates are also proving a headache for Indian electoral system. Without having any solid policy and programme, independent candidates waste a large percentage of votes. These candidates join hands with any particular party according to the opportunity.

4. Role of Caste: Right from the election of a candidate by a party to the election of a legislator by the voters, the caste factor plays a key role.

Long Answer Type Questions

Direct and Indirect Election

Question 1. 
What do you know of the Direct and Indirect Election system? Also explain their merits and demerits.
Answer: 
In democracy, the people elect their representatives and the representatives carry out the wishes of the people. Nowadays almost all the countries have adopted the system of Adult Franchise. There are two ways of electing representatives — Direct Election and Indirect Election.

Direct Election: 
In the system of Direct election, the voters directly participate in election and elect their representatives. The process of direct election is quite simple. Every voter goes to the polling station and records his vote either in favour or against particular candidates. A candidate securing the maximum number of votes is declared elected. This system of election is the most popular and is followed in all democratic countries for electing members of People’s Chamber. All members of the State assemblies and House of People in India are elected directly. Every adult in India exercises the right to vote.

Merits: 
(1) Firstly, direct election is consistent with the principle of democracy. People have direct share in the choice of their representatives and in determining the public policy.

(2) Secondly, the system makes the citizens active and alert. Each voter feels that his voice will count in the formation of the government and the selection of law-makers. A direct contact between the electors and the representatives stimulates interest in public affairs and develops a sense of public spirit. The system makes the people conscious of the rights and duties and is fully in keeping with the democratic principles.

(3) Thirdly, the representative elected under this system feels responsible to the people and tries to keep himself in touch with them and improve their conditions.

(4) Fourthly, direct election means election campaigns and intensive political propaganda for and against different candidates. Many citizens, therefore, who would have proved the best administrators, avoid to contest elections. This means a great national loss.

Demerits: 
(1) Firstly, direct election means political excitement which leads to the election of undesirable candidates. The voters are easily carried away or misled by clever orators. They are swept off their feet by popular passion.

(2) Secondly, direct election increases the election expenditure which entails a heavy burden on the public purse.

(3) Thirdly, direct election places the final choice of the representatives in the hands of the masses and most of them do not have enough of intelligence or independence to vote for the right type of candidates.

(4) Fourthly, direct election means election campaigns and intensive political propaganda for and against different candidates. Many citizens, therefore, who would have proved the best administrators, avoid to contest elections. This means a great national loss.

Indirect Election: 
Indirect election means that the voters do not directly participate in the election of their representatives but choose only an intermediary body which elects the representatives. This intermediary body is usually called the Electoral College. It is a system of Double election. In the first instance, the general mass of voters elect from among themselves a small group of electors.

These electors then elect the final representatives who become the members of the legislature. Thus, the final choice of electing the representatives is not that of the general mass of voters but of the intermediary body of electors which the general mass of voters had elected in the first instance. This Indirect Election system is often used for the Constitution of second chamber. The Council of States in India, the President of India and the President of U.S.A. are elected by the method of indirect election.

Merits: 
(1) It is useful where the people are sufficiently educated and politically organised and where the constituencies are very large. 

(2) The final choice of the representatives is in the hands of a body of selected persons who possess superior knowledge and are guided by a keener sense of responsibility. It helps to check popular passion. 

(3) Clever politicians and orators cannot mislead the few selected people. There is no occasion for any disorder or dislocations taking place as a result of the voters being swayed by political passions. There are neither election campaigns nor party propaganda.

(4) This system minimises the evils of party politics and propaganda.

(5) Under this system, there are in fact two elections. This involves delay which proves very useful. The Electoral College makes the final choice after cool consideration. The delay makes the situation cool and the electors can vote freely and dispassionately.

Demerits: 
(1) The method of indirect election creates a big gap between the representative and the voters. The representatives do not feel responsible to the primary voters.

(2) The voters have no direct participation in the selection of their representatives, and so they take little interest in politics and become negligent of public affairs. The system, therefore, has no educative value. 

(3) The system gives birth to corruption and political intrigue. The intermediate body of voters has a small membership and can be more easily bribed by rich and powerful candidates.

(4) Actually it leads to more party strifes and in countries where political parties are well organised, election by indirect method has become a mere formality.

Conclusion:
Out of the two methods of elections, the method of Direct Election prevails in most of the countries. In all the democratic countries, the representatives to the legislature are elected by the method of Direct Election. The members of the Upper House can be elected through the method of Indirect Election. In India, the members of the Rajya Sabha   are elected by the method of Indirect Election. The President of India and the President of U.S.A. are also elected by the method of indirect election.

Question 2. 
Explain the election procedure prevalent in India.
Answer:
India is a democratic country. But India has adopted indirect democracy. Administration is run by the representatives of the people, who are elected for a fixed term. In India, election procedure is as follows:
1. Constituencies: The first important task in election is delimitation of constituencies.

2. List of Voters: First, a temporary list of voters is prepared. If anybody’s name is excluded in the list, he can ask for inclusion of his name. But such a request is to be made within a fixed time.

3. Appointment: Senior and Junior staff for election purposes are appointed and supervised.

4. Polling Station: In each constituency, polling stations are established and a fixed number of voters are directed to cast their votes there.

5. Filing of the Nomination Papers: After the announcement of the date of election, nomination papers are filed in favour of the candidates.

6. Withdrawal of Nomination: Candidates are allowed to withdraw their names from election. But this is to be done before the last date for withdrawal.

7. Scrutiny and Objections: On the fixed date, nomination papers are scrutinised and those papers, which are not proper, are rejected and the names of eligible candidates are announced.

8. Propaganda: With the announcement of election, political parties and independent candidates start propaganda and try to influence the voters.

9. Polling: On the day of the polling, a holiday is declared so that each voter can cast his vote. At polling booth, voters are provided with a ballot receipt for entry in the polling booth. Nowadays, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) are used for casting and recording votes. The voter presses the button alongside the name of his/ her preferred party or candidate to cast his/her vote.

10. Counting of Votes: On a fixed date, votes recorded in various EVMs are calculated in the presence of the representatives of the candidates and the votes are counted. A candidate getting the highest votes is declared elected. If a candidate fails to get one-sixth of the votes, he then loses his submitted security also.

11. Election Expenses: Each candidate has to submit the accounts of election expenditure to the
Election Commission within forty five days of the declaration of result. The amount of election expenditure is fixed.
 
Question 3. 
DescrIbe the Còmposition Powers and Functions of the Election Commission of India.
Answer: 
India is a sovereign democratic republic. For the successful working of democracy, election must be held in a non-partisan spirit. The framers of our Constitution were aware of the need to have an independent and impartial agency to conduct free and fair elections in the country. To ensure this, the Constitution had provided Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections. Composition: The Election Commission consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and such number of other Election Commissioners, the President may fix from time to time. 

On 1 October 1993, the President had appointed two other Election Commissioners. The appointment of Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners is made by the President. Before each general election, the President also appoints, in consultation with the Election Commission, such Regional Commissioners as he considers necessary to assist the Election Commission. At present, there is one Chief Election Commissioner and two other members. The tenure and other service conditions of the Election Commission are determined by the President. 

Generally, the Election Commissioner is appointed for a period of six years. The conditions of services of the Chief Election Commissioner shall not be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment. The Chief Election Commissioner may only be removed when 2/3rd majority of the Parliament passes a resolution for his removal. Regional Commissioners can only be removed on the recommendations of the Chief Election Commissioner. The President or the Governor of a state makes available to the Election Commission such staff as may be necessary for the discharge of its functions.

Powers and Functions of the Election Commission: 
Following are the main functions of the Election Commission:
1. Superintendence, direction and control of the electoral roll for election

2. The conduct of elections to the parliament and legislatures of states and also to the offices of the President and Vice-President

3. The Election Commission fixes the time-table for the elections. On 10 March 2019, the Election Commission announced a seven-phase poll schedule beginning 11 April, to constitute the 17th Lok Sabha. The Chief Election Commissioner said that the Lok Sabha poll would be held on 11 April, 18 April, 23 April, 29 April, 6 May, 12 May and 19 May.

4. The Election Commission orders a fresh election in a constituency or at a polling booth if resorting to malpractices, such as intimidation of voters, burning of polling booths, etc., has vitiated the electoral process. In May 1996, the Election Commission ordered a repoll in 2,024 booths throughout the country. On 20 February 1998, the Election Commission ordered fresh poll in the entire Patna Parliamentary Constituency after declaring the polling of February 16 as ‘null and void’.

5. The Election Commission is responsible to conduct free and fair election.

6. The Election Commission can postpone the election. On 20 February 1993, the Election Commission postponed the assembly poll in Tripura scheduled for 15 February 1993.

7. The Election Commissioner appoints Returning Officers and Assistant Returning Officers to conduct the election.
8. The Election Commission allots symbols to various political parties and the candidates.

9. The Election Commission is authorised to recognise a political party. It is the Election Commission that determines what political parties will be recognised at both national and state levels. At present, the Election Commission gave recognition to seven national political parties.

10. The Election Commissioner is to ensure that only those persons cast their vote, who are entitled to it and that there is no impersonation.

11. The Election Commission decides where polling booths should be set up so that electorates are not required to travel a long distance.

12. The Election Commission is responsible for the safe custody of the EVMs and the counting of votes before the results are announced.

13. The Election Commission prepares a code of conduct for all political parties and independent candidates who are contesting elections.

14. The Election Commission supervises the staff deputed by the Union Government and the State Government for the election purpose.

15. All election results are announced by the Election Commission. So far, seventeen elections to the Lok Sabha have 
been conducted. The Election Commission has acquired considerable prestige and reputation for conducting elections in a fair and free manner. 
Drawbacks of Indian Electoral System
 
Question 4. 
Describe the main shortcomings of the present Election System in India.
Answer: 
Since the adoption of the Constitution, India has conducted fourteen general elections. But the Indian electoral system is not perfect and has many drawbacks. Major drawbacks of the Indian Electoral system are as follows:

1. The Distortion of Seat-Vote Ratio: 
The first and foremost defect of the present electoral system is that there is no relationship between the votes secured by a party and its strength in the Assembly or the Parliament. The number of seats secured by a particular party is not proportionate to the votes polled in their favour. The Congress stood to gain by this system. In 1952, the Congress poll percentage for the Lok Sabha was 44.99; in 1957, it was 47.78; in 1962, it was 44.73; and in 1967, it was 40.42.

But the Congress succeeded in getting some 70% seats in the first three elections and a clear majority even in the fourth. On the other hand, other parties secured more percentage of votes but lesser percentage of seats. In 1984, the Congress (I) poll percentage for Lok Sabha was 49.16 but it secured three-fourth seats of Lok Sabha. On the other hand, all opposition parties secured more votes than the Congress (I) but they secured only about one- fourth seats of Lok Sabha.

2. Money Power: 
Another important drawback of the Indian electoral system is the growing influence of money in elections. The expenses incurred during election are so huge that parties tend to give ticket only to a millionaire. The high cost of electioneering has resulted in corrupt practices. Official position is shamelessly exploited to pile up enormous funds and those funds are unscrupulously used to remain in power.

3. Independent Candidates: 
Besides sources of political parties, there are a number of independent candidates standing for election. Independent candidates may take as much as 15 per cent of the votes and yet they may not gain more than 3 per cent of the seats. A large percentage of votes is thus wasted.

4. Role of Caste:
Right from the election of a candidate by a party to the election of a legislator by the voters, the caste factor plays a key role.

5. Misuse of Public Media: 
It is being alleged that the Congress was using the government 
monopoly in radio and television for the party. This thing has gone a long way in helping the party in power by protecting its image. These public media have, thus, been abused.

6. Importance to Individual Candidates: 
The existing system of election gives more importance to the individual candidates than the political party. The result is that these important individuals dictate their terms for remaining in the party.

7. Defect in Single-member Constituency System: 
Election on the basis of single member constituency system results in tension and bitterness among different sections of the population. After the polls, supporters of the defeated candidates feel sore and frustrated.

8. Biased in favour of the Ruling Party: 
The ugly aspect of the Indian electoral system is that not merely is it heavily, if not totally, weighed in favour of one-party dominance, but it has not much fragmented the party system that the people seem to be losing confidence in it altogether. No power can make democracy survive if the institution of parties is held in contempt or repudiated. Remedies to Improve the Indian Electoral System

Question 5. 
Examine the major suggestions for electoral reforms.
Answer: 
Following remedies are suggested to improve the Indian Electoral System:
(1) The present electoral system of single-member constituencies should be replaced by the system of proportional representation.

(2) Strict action should be taken against those who indulged in booth-capturing and bogus voting.

(3) There should be provision for recall.

(4) The elections including the polling should be so conducted that the people are in a position to exercise their franchise freely, without intimidation, coercion, interference, undue inducement by political parties and others.

(5) The number of polling booths in a constituency should be increased.

(6) The electoral rolls should be open for addition and deletion every three months after the general revision is completed.

(7) Every effort should be made to check the role of money in elections.

(8) Election petitions should be disposed of expeditiously.

(9) The state must share election expense.

(10) Ministers and other officials must not misuse the official machinery.

(11) Eligible voters should be given identity cards.

(12) The Election Commission has suggested that election need not be countermanded on the death of any candidate.

(13) Every political party, registered with the commission, should publish its accounts annually.

(14) According to Former Chief Election Commissioner, T.S. Krishnamurthy all the ministers, except a two or three holding important portfolios in each state, should resign as soon as the announcement for Assembly election is made.

Question 6. 
Explain the steps taken, so far, in respect to Election reform.
Answer: 
India is a democratic country and free and fair elections are essential for a healthy democracy. The more the elections are free and fair, the stronger allegiance people will have towards democratic institutions. To ensure free and fair elections, following steps have been taken in our electorate system:
(1) Lowering of Voting Age: Acting upon the demand of political parties and young generation, the Parliament through 61st Constitutional Amendment in 1989 reduced the minimum voting age from 21 to 18. The Parliament passed the Act by mutual consent.

(2) Electronic Voting Machine: The Representation of the People Act, 1951 was amended to facilitate use of electronic voting machines in elections.

(3) Registration of Political Parties: Under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, the registration of the political parties has been made necessary. It also provides essential conditions for the registration such as faith in secularism and socialism, etc. The Election Commission has the right for the registration of political parties.

(4) Deputation to Election Commission: Under the 1988 Amendment Act, a provision has been made that the staff engaged for the preparation, revision and correction of electoral rolls for election shall be on the deputation of the Election Commission. This Act provided that the personnel deployed for such activities will be subjected to control and discipline the Election Commission during that period.

(5) Identity Cards: On 15 December 1993, the Election Commission passed an order that from 1994, identity cards will be essential for voting. No one will be allowed to vote if he/she does not carry the identity card with him/her on the day of polling.

(6) Control on the expenditure for elections: The Election Commission has put down a limitation on the election expenditure. No one is allowed to spend more than the fixed amount for elections. 

(7) 1996 Amendment Act: The 1996 Electoral Reforms Act introduced the following reforms in our electorate system:

• The period for effective campaigning was reduced from 20 to 14 days.
• The candidate who will insult the National Flag or National Anthem shall be disqualified for contesting elections for six years.
• A candidate cannot contest election from more than two constituencies.
• No election will be countermanded on the death of a candidate. However, elections shall be adjourned if the deceased candidate belonged to a recognised party.
• The bye-election will be held within six months from the date the vacancy occurs,
• Going to a poll with any kind of arms is now a cognisable offence.
• The security deposit for Parliamentary elections was raised to ?25,000 from ?10,000 and for state assembly elections from ?5,000 to ? 10,000. The security deposit was enhanced to check the non-serious candidates.
• No liquor shall be sold on the day of poll.
• All registered electors who are employed will be entitled to a paid holiday on the day of polling.

(8) 91st Amendment Act: To put an effective ban on defection, the Parliament has unanimously passed the 91st Constitutional Amendment. The Act provides that if any member of the Parliament or Legislative Assembly changes his party, then he will also lose his membership. Besides this, it also provides that the size of Council of Ministers in the centre and in big states will be 15 per cent of the total members of the lower house.

(9) Model Code of Conduct: The Election Commission has been able to build a consensus among the political parties on the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct.

(10) Hike in Election Expenditure: The ceiling on election expenditure for the Lok Sabha has been raised to t 77 lakh and 28 lakh for assembly elections.

Question 7. 
Study the passage given below carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Till 1989, an adult Indian meant an Indian citizen above the age of 21. An amendment to the Constitution in 1989, reduced the eligibility age to 18. Adult franchise ensures that all citizens are able to participate in the process of selecting their representative. This is consistent with the principle of equality and non¬discrimination that we studied in the chapter on rights.

Many people thought and many think so today that giving the right to vote to everyone irrespective of educational qualification was not right. But our Constitution makers had a firm belief in the ability and worth of all adult citizens as equals in the matter of deciding what is good for the society, the country and for their own constituencies.

1. What was the age of voting before 1989?
2. What is the age of voting in present day India?
3. What type of franchise system is adopted by India?

Answer: 

1. The age of voting before 1989 was 21 year.
2. In present-day India, the age of voting is 18 years.
3. The Universal Adult Franchise system is adopted by India.

Question 8. 
atch out! Winning the election is going to be tough. We will have to face new situations like the code of conduct, fair and free polling, strict  
Look at the given cartoon, and answer the following questions :

(a) Which type of‘Fear’ is shown in the given cartoon?
(b) Why is the leader nervous?
Answer: 
(a) In the above cartoon, fear like code of conduct, fair and free polling and strictness is shown.
(b) The leader looks nervous because winning the election is going to be tough.

Question 9. 
Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow:
Article 324 of the Constitution lays down that the elections to the Lok Sabha and to the Legislative Assembly of each state shall be held on the basis of Universal Adult Franchise. In India, Universal Adult Franchise was introduced and followed in 1950. Every person, both male and female, who is a citizen of India and is not less than 18 years is entitled to enjoy the right to vote in elections. A citizen of India of eighteen years who is otherwise disqualified on the grounds of non-residence, insanity, corrupt practice, is not entitled to be registered as a voter.

9.1. Which Article of the Constitution lays down the election?
(a) 320 
(b) 324
(c) 329 
(d) 335
Answer:: 
(b) 324

9.2. On what basis election are held in India?
(a) On merit
(b) On gender
(c) On Universal Adult Franchise
(d) None of these 
Answer: 
(c) On Universal Adult Franchise

9.3. In India, when Universal Adult Franchise was introduced?
(a) 1950 
(b) 1957
(c) 1960 
(d) 1961
Answer: 
(a) 1950 

9.4. When a person become voter in India?
(a) 16 years
(b) 18 years
(c) 20 years
(d) 22 years 
Answer:
(b) 18 years

HOTS QUESTIONS 

Question 1. 
What is Democracy?
Answer: 
The term ‘Democracy’ is derived from the greek words-Demos and kratos, the former meaning the ‘people’ and the latter implying ‘power’. Democracy, thus, means ‘power of the people’ or ‘rule of multitude’. Democracy means that the government of the state is to run by the people. People will have a share in the administration of the state.

Question 2. 
Who issues the notification of an election?
Answer: 
For election to the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, notification is issued by the President. For the legislative assembly election, notification is issued by the Governor.

Question 3. 
What is the meaning of nomination papers?
Answer: 
The candidature for election of a particular contestant is proposed by voters in a printed form called nomination paper, within the date fixed for filling the nomination paper.

Question 4. 
Why are election symbols given to political parties during election?
Answer: 
Election symbols are given to every political party because they help the voter to locate the name of the candidate of his choice at the time of casting their vote. Election symbols are of great help to illiterate voters.

Question 5. 
Write a short note on Chief Electoral Officer.
Answer: 
Every state has a Chief Electoral Officer. He is an officer of the state government. The Chief Electoral Officer is nominated by the Election Commission in consultation with the state government. The Chief Electoral Officer supervises the preparation, revision and correction of all electoral rolls in the state. He also supervises the conduct of all elections in the state. The District Election Officer works under the supervision, direction and control of the Chief Electoral Officer.

Question 6. 
Explain the functions of the Presiding Officer.
Answer: 
Each constituency is divided into polling stations. Each polling station is manned by a Presiding Officer. A Presiding Officer is appointed by the District Election Officer. The Presiding Officer after verification of the voter from the electoral roll, issues him/her the ballot receipt. After the election is over, it is the duty of the Presiding Officer to secure the electronic voting machines (EVMs) and deposit them at the collection centre. 

SELF-EVALUATION TEST 

1. What is the tenure of the members of the Election Commission? 
2. What does EVM stand for? 
3. What does F.P.T.P stand for? 
4. Complete the sentence The Election Commission conducts the Election of Parliament and . 
5. Mention any two features of the Electorate System in India. 
6. State any two qualifications of a voter in India. 
7. What do you understand by Universal Adult Franchise? 
8. Mention any two stages of the electoral process in India. 
9. What do you understand by Proportional Representation? Name any two countries where this system is functioning. 
10. What do you understand by Territorial Representation? Mention any two merits of the system. 
11. Suggest any four reforms which may help to improve the Electoral Process in India. 
12. Mention any four drawbacks in the Indian Electoral System. 

13. ‘Watch out! Winning the election is going to be tough. We will have to face new situations like the code of conduct, fair and free polling, strict.
Look at the given cartoon, and answer the following questions: 

(a) Which type of ‘Fear’ is shown in the given cartoon?
(b) Why is the leader nervous?

14. Describe the composition, powers and functions of the Election Commission of India. 
15. Describe the main shortcomings of the present Election System in India. 
16. Explain the steps taken, so far, in respect to Election reform.