1. Why is Universal Adult Franchise important for a healthy democracy?
Ans – Universal Adult Franchise gives every adult citizen the right to vote, regardless of caste, religion, gender, or wealth.
a) It ensures equal voting rights for all citizens.
b) It helps people elect their representatives.
c) It makes the government accountable to the people.
d) It strengthens democracy through people’s participation.
Therefore, Universal Adult Franchise is the foundation of a healthy democracy because it promotes equality, participation, and representative government.
2. What is the meaning of ‘Secret Ballot’? Why is it important in a democracy?
Ans – A secret ballot is a voting system in which no one can know whom a voter has voted for.
a) It protects the privacy of voters.
b) It allows people to vote freely without fear or pressure.
c) It helps ensure free and fair elections.
d) It strengthens democracy by protecting the right to vote independently.
Thus, the secret ballot is essential because it ensures that every citizen can vote freely and honestly, making democracy stronger.
3. Give examples of direct and indirect elections.
Ans – Examples of Direct and Indirect Elections
Direct Elections: In direct elections, people vote directly to elect their representatives.Examples:Election of members of the Lok Sabha in India.Election of members of the State Legislative Assembly (MLAs).Elections to local bodies such as Panchayats and Municipalities.
Indirect Elections: In indirect elections, representatives are elected by elected members rather than directly by the people. Examples:Election of the President of India.Election of members of the Rajya Sabha.Election of the Vice-President of India.
Direct elections involve direct participation of citizens, while indirect elections are carried out through elected representatives.
4. How is the election of members to the Lok Sabha different from that to the Rajya Sabha?
Ans – The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha are the two Houses of the Parliament of India, but their members are elected in different ways.
Differences:Lok Sabha: Members are directly elected by the people through voting.
Rajya Sabha: Members are indirectly elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies.
Lok Sabha: Represents the people of India.
Rajya Sabha: Represents the States and Union Territories.
Thus, Lok Sabha members are chosen directly by citizens, whereas Rajya Sabha members are elected indirectly by elected representatives.
5. What, in your view, are the advantages of the EVM over paper ballots?
Ans – An Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) is used to record votes electronically during elections.
Advantages: It makes voting and counting faster. It reduces invalid votes caused by incorrect marking. It saves paper and is more environment-friendly. It provides accurate and reliable results.It is easy to use for voters.
Therefore, EVMs make elections quicker, more accurate, and more efficient than paper ballots.
6. Voter turnout has been declining in some urban areas ofIndia. What could be the reasons for this trend, and whatsteps can be taken to encourage more people to vote?
Ans – Voter turnout means the percentage of eligible voters who cast their votes in an election.
Reasons: Lack of awareness about the importance of voting. Busy lifestyles and work commitments. Lack of interest in politics. Migration or absence from the city on polling day.
Steps to encourage voting:
Conduct voter awareness campaigns. Make voter registration easier. Encourage youth participation through schools and colleges. Provide convenient and accessible polling facilities.
Higher voter participation strengthens democracy. Every eligible citizen should vote to help choose a responsible government.
7. Why do you think a proportion of seats in the Lok Sabha is reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes? Write a short note.
Ans – Some seats in the Lok Sabha are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) to ensure their fair representation in Parliament.
a) It gives SCs and STs an equal opportunity to participate in governance.
b) It ensures their voices and concerns are represented in Parliament.
c) It helps reduce social inequality and discrimination.It promotes inclusive and representative democracy.
Thus, reservation of seats for SCs and STs helps protect their rights and ensures that all sections of society are represented in the country’s democratic system.
8. Social media is changing the way we experience elections — from catchy campaign reels and live speeches to political debates on Instagram and Twitter. But is this strengthening democracy or confusing it? Discuss in pairs: What are the
benefits, what are the challenges, and what might the future of elections be in a digital age?
Ans – Social media is changing the way we experience elections. Discuss its benefits, challenges, and the future of elections in the digital age.
Social media has become an important part of election campaigns. It helps political parties connect with voters quickly but also creates some challenges.
Benefits: Spreads election information quickly. Increases awareness and voter participation, especially among youth. Allows leaders to interact directly with citizens.
Challenges: Spread of fake news and misinformation. Online hate speech and rumors. Misleading advertisements and influence on voters. Future of Elections: Greater use of digital campaigns and online voter awareness. Stronger fact-checking and cyber security measures. Responsible use of social media by citizens and political parties.
Social media can strengthen democracy if it is used responsibly. Citizens should verify information before sharing it and make informed voting decisions.