Political Science 317 TMA ANSWER
Political Science 317 TMA ANSWER
(317)
1. Distributive Justice
Definition: Concerned with the fair distribution of resources, benefits, and burdens
within society.
Key Idea: Resources should be allocated in such a way that people receive what they
deserve based on their needs, contributions, or other relevant criteria.
Example: Progressive taxation, where wealthier individuals pay a higher percentage
of income to support public services for all.
2. Procedural Justice
3. Retributive Justice
4. Restorative Justice
Definition: Aims to repair the harm caused by wrongdoing and restore relationships
between the victim and the offender.
Key Idea: Focuses on healing, accountability, and the reintegration of offenders into
society.
Example: Mediation or reconciliation processes between victims and offenders to
understand the harm caused and seek restitution.
5. Social Justice
Definition: Concerns the overall fairness of social institutions and structures in
promoting equal rights, opportunities, and treatment for all individuals.
Key Idea: A just society ensures equal access to resources, education, healthcare, and
opportunities for all members.
Example: Policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, such as universal
healthcare or equal access to education.
6. Environmental Justice
Definition: Deals with the fair distribution of environmental benefits and burdens,
ensuring that no group or community is disproportionately affected by environmental
harm.
Key Idea: It advocates for equal access to a healthy environment and addresses issues
like pollution and climate change, especially for marginalized communities.
Example: Laws ensuring that industrial activities do not disproportionately harm low-
income or minority communities.
Conclusion:
Each aspect of justice emphasizes fairness, but they do so in different ways, whether it's
through equal distribution of resources, fair processes, proportional punishment, or healing
after harm. All of these are necessary for creating a just society where individuals' rights and
dignity are respected.
Q.2((A) . Elaborate how the objectives outlined in the Preamble of the Constitution reflect the
fundamental values and principles of a nation? (L5)
The Preamble of the Constitution serves as an introductory statement that encapsulates the
core values, principles, and objectives that guide the structure of a nation’s legal and political
framework. For instance, in the Indian Constitution, the Preamble outlines the guiding goals
of the Indian state, reflecting the nation's fundamental values. These values not only shape
the social and political order but also symbolize the ideals that the country aspires to achieve.
Here's an elaborate analysis of how the objectives in the Preamble reflect the fundamental
values and principles of a nation:
Value: Equality
The objective of equality underscores the principle of equal rights and opportunities
for all citizens, regardless of their social background or identity. This value is
fundamental in addressing historical injustices, particularly in post-colonial contexts,
and in promoting social integration and cohesion.
o Equality of Status: Every individual is to be treated with equal dignity and
respect, ensuring no one is discriminated against based on social or economic
status.
o Equality of Opportunity: Guarantees that all citizens have equal access to
education, employment, and other opportunities, aiming to create a level
playing field.
5. "Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and
integrity of the nation"
Conclusion:
The Preamble of the Constitution is not just an introduction; it is a reflection of the core
values and principles that define the ethos of a nation. It sets out the vision for a just,
equitable, and united society. The objectives of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, along
with the emphasis on the dignity of individuals, represent fundamental principles that guide
the nation’s legal and political system. These values promote a framework for a democratic
society in which each individual is guaranteed their rights and treated with respect, ensuring
that the nation functions harmoniously despite its diversity. Thus, the Preamble lays the
foundation for a fair, just, and inclusive society, guiding the country's laws and governance.
Q.3 ((A) . Analyze the ‘Law-making’ functions of the state legislature. (L14)
The state legislature plays a vital role in the governance of a state, and one of its primary
functions is law-making. This function is central to maintaining order, justice, and
governance within the state, ensuring that the legal framework evolves to meet the needs of
society. In a federal system like India, the state legislature is empowered to make laws on
matters enumerated in the State List under the Seventh Schedule of the Constitution, and in
certain cases, it can legislate on subjects in the Concurrent List as well. Below is an analysis
of the law-making functions of the state legislature:
The primary function of the state legislature is to pass laws that apply to the state.
These laws can cover a wide range of subjects such as education, health, police, local
governance, agriculture, and labor, which fall under the State List in the Constitution.
A law is proposed by introducing a bill in either house of the legislature, which can be
either the Legislative Assembly (Lower House) or the Legislary Council (Upper
House), depending on the state’s structure.
Once the bill is introduced, it undergoes several readings and debates before being
passed. After passing through both houses, the bill is sent to the Governor for assent.
Once the Governor gives assent, the bill becomes a law.
2. Debate and Scrutiny of Proposed Laws
A crucial aspect of law-making is the debate and scrutiny of proposed laws. This is
carried out by the elected members of the state legislature, who represent the public
and are responsible for ensuring that proposed laws align with public interest.
Committee system: Most state legislatures have a committee system, where bills are
reviewed in detail. Committees like the Law and Justice Committee, Finance
Committee, and Standing Committees examine the bills, analyze their implications,
and suggest amendments if needed. This process ensures thorough scrutiny before a
law is enacted.
The state legislature also plays a role in amending existing laws to address evolving
societal needs or rectify issues in previous legislation.
For example, if a law becomes outdated or ineffective due to changes in technology,
society, or economy, the legislature may propose amendments or repeal the law
entirely.
Amendments can be proposed either by members of the legislature or by the state
government. These amendments undergo similar scrutiny and processes as new laws
before becoming effective.
4. Delegated Legislation
In some cases, the state legislature enacts primary legislation and delegates the
authority to make more detailed regulations to the executive (the state government or
its agencies). This is known as delegated or subordinate legislation.
While the legislature passes the broad framework of a law, the executive, through
various rules, orders, notifications, and by-laws, makes detailed provisions on how
the law will be implemented.
Although this process increases administrative flexibility, it also requires oversight to
prevent misuse of powers.
5. Financial Legislation
The state legislature has significant law-making powers related to the state’s finances.
The budget is presented and passed by the legislature, and this includes:
o Appropriating funds for various departments and schemes.
o Taxation laws, which determine how the state will raise revenue through
taxes like sales tax, property tax, and excise duties.
o Laws related to expenditures, borrowing, and financial management of the
state’s resources.
The legislature reviews, approves, and sometimes amends financial proposals to
ensure transparency and proper allocation of resources.
The state legislature also plays a role in making laws related to local self-
government, which is essential for decentralized governance.
Laws are made to empower municipalities and panchayats to manage local
resources, services, and development initiatives. These laws ensure that local bodies
have the necessary powers to govern their regions and cater to the needs of the people
at the grassroots level.
The state legislature also passes laws to enforce fundamental rights and
fundamental duties that are guaranteed by the Constitution. For instance, legislation
related to social justice (e.g., laws concerning reservations for backward classes,
welfare schemes for the underprivileged, or laws against caste-based discrimination)
are enacted by the state legislature to ensure that citizens enjoy their constitutional
rights in practice.
Laws aimed at safeguarding public health, environmental protection, labour
rights, and consumer protection are part of the legislative role in securing the
welfare of the people.
While major constitutional amendments at the national level are made by the
Parliament, the state legislature plays a role in the process of amending the
Constitution at the state level.
Amendments relating to the powers of the states, the relationship between the state
and central governments, or matters affecting state interests require the approval or
ratification of the state legislature. This reinforces the principle of federalism,
ensuring that states have a say in changes to the national framework that affect them.
9. Emergency Legislation
In times of crisis or emergency, the state legislature may need to enact laws to deal
with the situation effectively. This could include laws for public order, disaster
management, or security concerns. The legislature may be called upon to pass laws
that temporarily modify regular legal frameworks to address immediate needs.
Conclusion:
The law-making function of the state legislature is a dynamic and vital component of the
governance system. It reflects the principle of representative democracy, ensuring that laws
are made by elected representatives who are accountable to the people. Through its processes
of debate, scrutiny, and enactment, the state legislature plays a key role in shaping the legal
framework that governs the lives of citizens. Additionally, the law-making powers extend to
a wide range of issues, from social justice to financial management, making the state
legislature a central pillar in the functioning of the state and the protection of citizens' rights
and interests.
Q.4(A) . Critically examine the politicization of caste and it impact on social justice and
equality.
The politicization of caste refers to the process through which caste identities are used as
tools for political mobilization and electoral advantage. This phenomenon has significant
implications for social justice and equality, especially in countries like India, where caste
remains an important socio-political factor. The politicization of caste can have both positive
and negative effects, and its consequences are complex. Below is a critical examination of the
politicization of caste and its impact on social justice and equality:
Positive Aspects:
o Empowerment of Marginalized Groups: The politicization of caste, through
policies like reservation, has contributed to the empowerment of historically
disadvantaged groups, particularly in education, employment, and politics.
This has allowed these groups to achieve higher representation in
government, the bureaucracy, and institutions of power.
o Recognition of Social Inequalities: Caste-based politics can help bring
attention to the deep-rooted inequalities in society, enabling policies and
reforms that are aimed at addressing discrimination and creating a more
inclusive society.
Negative Aspects:
o Perpetuation of Caste Divisions: While caste-based politics aims to uplift
marginalized communities, it can also perpetuate caste divisions by
emphasizing differences rather than promoting unity. Over time, this can
hinder social cohesion, fostering an environment of caste-based competition
rather than cooperation.
o Tokenism and Political Exploitation: Politicians may sometimes exploit
caste identities for political gain, offering superficial benefits to secure votes
rather than addressing the underlying social and economic issues. This can
lead to tokenism, where political parties may only pay lip service to the needs
of caste-based communities without implementing effective policy changes.
o Fragmentation of Social Justice Goals: The focus on caste-based
representation may fragment the broader goal of social justice. For instance,
some caste-based political movements prioritize the interests of their group
over the collective needs of society, leading to a lack of focus on universal
justice for all.
3. Impact on Equality
Equal Opportunity vs. Equal Outcomes: The reservation system, often associated
with caste-based politics, aims to provide equal opportunities to marginalized
communities. However, critics argue that equal outcomes are not always achieved
because reservations may not address the underlying structural inequalities in
society, such as access to quality education, economic resources, and healthcare.
Instead of creating equality in a holistic sense, caste-based politics may only level the
playing field for a few, leaving many disadvantaged groups still behind.
Discrimination and Backlash: The emphasis on caste-based quotas can sometimes
lead to a sense of reverse discrimination, particularly among the upper castes,
leading to political backlash. This can create further divisions and resentment between
communities. The resentment generated by the perceived unfairness of reservation
policies may detract from efforts to build a more egalitarian society.
Challenges to Meritocracy: One of the criticisms of caste-based reservations is that
it undermines the concept of meritocracy. Critics argue that focusing on caste may
reduce the emphasis on merit, particularly in competitive fields such as education and
employment. This could result in a situation where the most qualified candidates are
overlooked in favor of those benefiting from affirmative action, potentially affecting
efficiency and overall societal progress.
Identity Politics and Division: Caste politics, by emphasizing group identity over
individual merit, can deepen the social polarization in society. Rather than
transcending caste divisions, caste-based political movements often reinforce them,
with political leaders from different communities using caste as a way to consolidate
support. This leads to a fractured society where political allegiance is often
determined by caste identity rather than broader national or social issues.
Violence and Conflict: In some cases, the politicization of caste has led to violence
and communal tension. Caste-based political mobilizations can lead to heightened
competition for resources and power, often resulting in clashes between caste groups.
Such violence further undermines social justice and equality, as it exacerbates
inequalities and perpetuates cycles of discrimination and marginalization.
To mitigate the negative impact of caste-based politics on social justice and equality,
several reforms can be considered:
o Promote Class-based, rather than Caste-based, Affirmative Action:
Focusing on socio-economic status rather than caste can address the needs of
marginalized individuals across all communities, promoting greater social
integration and reducing caste-based animosity.
o Empowerment through Education and Skill Development: Rather than
relying solely on reservations, policies focused on education, skills
development, and economic empowerment can help individuals from
marginalized communities achieve upward mobility in a more sustainable and
equitable manner.
o Social Cohesion Initiatives: Initiatives to promote inter-caste interaction,
social unity, and tolerance can help break down caste barriers and foster a
sense of shared national identity.
Conclusion:
The politicization of caste has both positive and negative impacts on social justice and
equality. On the one hand, it has led to empowerment and representation for historically
marginalized communities through reservation and affirmative action policies. On the other
hand, it can perpetuate caste divisions, undermine social cohesion, and create resentment
among different groups. For caste-based politics to contribute effectively to social justice and
equality, it is essential to strike a balance between addressing historical discrimination and
promoting a vision of a unified and egalitarian society. Therefore, it is crucial to reform
caste-based policies and focus on inclusive development, education, and social harmony to
achieve true equality for all.
Better Goods and Services: As markets become globalized, consumers gain access
to a wider variety of goods and services, often at lower prices due to competition.
For example, the availability of affordable electronics, clothing, and food from
different parts of the world has improved the standard of living for many people.
Additionally, consumers benefit from better quality products, as companies strive to
meet global standards.
Higher Wages and Job Creation: Globalization has opened up new job
opportunities, particularly in emerging economies, where multinational companies
have established factories, businesses, and services. These jobs, often in
manufacturing, technology, or customer service, provide workers with higher wages
compared to traditional, local job markets. Increased employment opportunities
contribute to improved standards of living.
Access to Better Healthcare: Globalization has facilitated the spread of medical
technologies and healthcare practices across the world. People in developing
countries now have access to advanced medical treatments, pharmaceuticals, and
healthcare systems that were once only available in wealthier nations. Global
cooperation in healthcare research has also led to innovations in treatment and disease
prevention.
5. Reduction in Poverty
Diplomatic Ties and Conflict Resolution: Globalization has led to the establishment
of more international organizations (e.g., the United Nations, World Trade
Organization, World Health Organization) that foster diplomatic relations,
international cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution. Through globalization,
nations can engage in dialogue, resolve disputes peacefully, and work towards
common global goals such as peace, security, and development.
Democracy Promotion: The spread of ideas due to globalization has also encouraged
the promotion of democracy and human rights across the world. Global awareness
and communication have empowered people in authoritarian regimes to demand
greater freedoms, leading to democratic reforms in several countries.
Conclusion:
While globalization has its share of challenges, its positive effects are undeniable. It has
spurred economic growth, increased cultural exchange, improved living standards, and
reduced poverty. By promoting the free flow of ideas, technology, and capital, globalization
has paved the way for global cooperation and progress in various fields such as health,
environment, and education. For its benefits to be maximized, however, careful management
and policies are required to address the inequalities and challenges that come with
globalization, ensuring that all countries and individuals can equally participate in and benefit
from the globalized world.
Q.6(A) PROJECT : o assess the awareness about the Constitution, ask following questions
from the given survey questionnaire to 20 households around your locality and record their
responses. Analyze the collected responses and draw your own conclusions. (L5) S.N
Questions Agegroup Sex Response Remarks 1. Are you aware about the Constitution of
India? 2. Have you ever read preamble of the Constitution? 3. Which body framed the
Constitution of India? 4. What is the Constitutional name of India? 5. Can the Constitution be
amended? 6. By which amendment act, the terms ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ were added to the
Constitution 7. What does the constitution of India guarantees?
To complete your project on assessing the awareness about the Constitution, you will need to
follow these steps:
You will need to visit 20 households in your locality and ask each person these questions. For
each response, you should record the following details:
Age
S.N. Questions Sex Response Remarks
Group
Are you aware about the Respondent was aware
1 18-25 Male Yes
Constitution of India? but not in detail
Have you ever read the Has heard about it but
2 26-35 Female No
preamble of the Constitution? never read it
Age
S.N. Questions Sex Response Remarks
Group
Which body framed the Constituent
3 36-45 Male Correct answer
Constitution of India? Assembly
What is the Constitutional
4 18-25 Female Bharat Correct answer
name of India?
Can the Constitution be Knowledge about
5 46-60 Male Yes
amended? amendments
By which amendment act, the
42nd
6 terms ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ 18-25 Male Correct answer
Amendment
were added?
Partial answer –
What does the Constitution of Fundamental
7 26-35 Female Respondent only
India guarantee? Rights
mentioned rights
Once you have collected the data, analyze the responses based on the following points:
1. Awareness Levels: Calculate the percentage of people who are aware of the
Constitution, who have read the preamble, and so on.
2. Age and Sex Impact: Assess if the awareness levels differ based on age or sex. For
example, younger respondents may be more aware of the Constitution than older
respondents, or the responses may vary based on gender.
3. Common Mistakes or Gaps in Knowledge: Identify common errors, such as
confusion about the body that framed the Constitution or the terms added by the 42nd
Amendment.
4. General Conclusions: Draw conclusions from the survey. For instance, if most
people were aware of the Constitution but fewer had read the preamble, it may
indicate that while there is broad awareness, the depth of understanding is low.
Overall Awareness: Most people are aware of the Constitution but may not have a
detailed understanding.
Age Trends: Younger people may have greater exposure to the Constitution through
education and media, while older generations may not be as aware.
Knowledge Gaps: There might be a significant gap in understanding certain aspects,
such as the 42nd Amendment or the detailed provisions of the Constitution.
This will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of the awareness about the Constitution
in your locality.