Important and Frequently Asked Questions: Chapter - Electoral Politics (Class 9)
Short Answer Questions (40-60 words)
1. Why are elections important in a democracy?
Elections are important as they allow citizens to choose their representatives and hold them
accountable. They ensure participation in decision-making, provide legitimacy to the government,
and uphold the principle of equality by giving every citizen one vote.
2. What is a constituency?
A constituency is a defined geographical area from which a representative is elected to a legislative
body. For example, in Lok Sabha elections, the country is divided into constituencies, each electing
one Member of Parliament (MP).
3. What is meant by the term Universal Adult Franchise?
Universal Adult Franchise means that every adult citizen, regardless of caste, religion, gender, or
economic status, has the right to vote in elections once they reach the age of 18.
4. What is the role of the Election Commission in India?
The Election Commission ensures free and fair elections in India. Its roles include preparing
electoral rolls, supervising polling, enforcing the Model Code of Conduct, and resolving election
disputes.
5. What is the Model Code of Conduct?
The Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission to political
parties and candidates to ensure fair campaigning during elections. It prohibits activities like
vote-buying, hate speeches, and misuse of government resources.
6. What is the first-past-the-post system?
In the first-past-the-post system, the candidate who gets the highest number of votes in a
constituency wins, even if they do not secure a majority of the votes.
7. Mention two challenges faced during elections in India.
- Criminalization of Politics: Candidates with criminal records contest elections.
- Money and Muscle Power: Excessive use of money and coercion affects free and fair elections.
Long Answer Questions (100-120 words)
1. Explain the process of conducting elections in India.
The election process in India includes:
1. Announcement of Election Dates: The Election Commission announces the schedule.
2. Filing of Nominations: Candidates submit their nomination papers.
3. Scrutiny and Withdrawal: Papers are scrutinized, and candidates can withdraw.
4. Campaigning: Candidates promote their policies and seek votes.
5. Polling: Citizens cast their votes at polling stations.
6. Counting of Votes: Votes are counted, and winners are declared.
This process ensures transparency and adherence to democratic principles.
2. What are the challenges to free and fair elections in India?
Free and fair elections in India face challenges like:
- Use of Money Power: Wealthy candidates influence voters through bribery.
- Criminal Background: Some candidates with criminal records contest elections.
- Vote-Buying: Offering cash or gifts to voters disrupts fair elections.
- Low Voter Turnout: Lack of awareness or apathy reduces participation.
The Election Commission addresses these issues by enforcing strict rules and promoting voter
education.
3. Discuss the advantages of elections in a democracy.
Elections are the cornerstone of democracy:
1. Representation: Citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.
2. Accountability: Leaders are answerable to voters for their actions.
3. Legitimacy: Elections give legitimacy to the government.
4. Equality: Every vote has equal value, ensuring fairness.
5. Change of Power: Elections allow peaceful transitions of power, avoiding conflicts.
These advantages uphold democratic values and citizen participation.
4. What are reserved constituencies, and why are they necessary?
Reserved constituencies are electoral areas set aside for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled
Tribes (STs). These ensure adequate representation for marginalized groups in legislative bodies.
Reservation helps address historical injustices, promotes equality, and encourages political
participation among disadvantaged communities.
