Democracy in India: NBSE class 9 Social Science chapter 12 notes

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Here are the solutions, questions, answers, and notes of chapter 12: DEMOCRACY IN INDIA which is a part of social science class 9 syllabus of students studying under the Nagaland Board of School Education. However, these notes should be used only for references and additions/modifications should be made as per the requirements.

Introduction

The concept of democracy is not new to India. These ideas have grown with history. Like every nation following democracy in the world, it has followed a historical path in India. The earliest political unit in India was that of the class. All members of a tribe were equal. The village community had its own assembly. Only the king was above this democratic body. The Vedic sages created an outlet for dissent within this system. Although the king was at the top he could be challenged. Successful monarchies had democratic principles built in them. Kings found ways to keep in touch with the people. There are innumerable legends of rulers roaming in disguise to mingle with their subjects.

The institutions of Sabha and Samiti, mentioned in the Rigveda may be said to have contained the rudiments of a modern parliament. These bodies exercised a great amount of influence and were closely associated with the affairs of the state.

Textual questions and answers

Choose the correct answer

1. The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held on:

A. 9 December 1946
B. 10 December 1947
C. 15 August 1947
D. None of these

Answer: A. 9 December 1946

2. Who was the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution?

A. Rajendra Prasad
B. B.R. Ambedkar
C. J. L. Nehru
D. K. M. Munshi

Answer: B. B.R. Ambedkar

3. Who was elected the president of the Constituent Assembly?

A. Dr Rajendra Prasad
B. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
C. Mahatma Gandhi
D. Jawaharlal Nehru

Answer: A. Dr Rajendra Prasad

4. When was the Constitution of India enforced?

A. 1947
B. 1948
C. 1949
D. 1950

Answer: D. 1950

5. There are two statements marked as Assertion (A) and Reason (R). Mark your answer as per the codes provided below:

Assertion (A): The Constitution was enforced on 26 January 1950.
Reason (R): To mark this day we celebrate January 26 as Republic Day every year.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
B. Both (A) and (R) are true but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
C. (A) is correct but (R) is wrong
D. (A) is wrong but (R) is correct

Answer: A. Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)

6. Which of the following statements about the given personality is incorrect?

A. He was an eminent lawyer, legal stalwart, and economist
B. He was the Chairman of Constitution Drafting Committee
C. He moved the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly
D. He went on to become the first Law Minister of Independent India

Answer: C. He moved the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly

7. Consider the statements given below and choose the correct answer.

Statement I: Indian Constitution is a unique blend of flexibility and rigidity
Statement II: Most of the provisions of the Constitution can be amended by a two-thirds majority in both Houses of Parliament.

A. Statement (I) is correct and (II) is incorrect
B. Statement (I) is incorrect and (II) is correct
C. Both (I) and (II) are incorrect
D. Both (I) and (II) are correct

Answer: D. Both (I) and (II) are correct

Short answer type questions

1. Why is the concept of democracy not new to India?

Answer: The concept of democracy is not new to India. These ideas have grown with history. Like every nation following democracy in the world, it has followed a historical path in India.

2. What was the role of Dr. Rajendra Prasad and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in the framing of our Constitution?

Answer: Dr. Rajendra Prasad was the president of the Constituent Assembly and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was the chairman of the Drafting Committee.

3. What is Universal Adult Franchise?

Answer: Universal Adult Franchise gives the right to all the adult citizens of a country to take part in forming the government.

4. Which were the new words added to the Constitution in 1976?

Answer: The new words added to the Constitution in 1976 are ‘socialist’, ‘secular’, and ‘Unity and Integrity of the Nation.’

5. What has India borrowed from the Constitution of the United Kingdom?

Answer: India borrowed the Parliamentary system with Prime Minister as its head from the United Kingdom.

Long answer type questions

1. What is a Constitution? Why do we need a Constitution?

Answer: A Constitution is a set of well-defined rules that explain the powers of different organs of the government. It is a body of fundamental principles according to which a state is governed.

We need a Constitution because of the following reasons:

i. It generates a degree of trust and coordination that is necessary for different kinds of people to live together.
ii. It specifies the structure and power of the government.
iii. It lays down limits on the powers of the government.
iv. It explains the rights of the citizens.
v. It also expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

2. Describe the salient features of the Indian Constitution.

Answer: The salient features of the Indian Constitution are:

i. The Sovereign Democratic Republic: India is a sovereign democratic republic, which means it is free from any kind of external control, people elect their own government, and it cannot have a hereditary ruler.
ii. A socialist Secular State: India has a long history of reforms which tried to break down the barriers of low and high castes, customs and superstitions. In India, people of all faiths have equal freedom.
iii. Secure Justice, Liberty, Equality and to Promote Fraternity: In India, citizens cannot be discriminated on the grounds of caste, religion, and gender when it comes to justice. Indian Constitution also imposes liberty, equality and fraternity on all its citizens.
iv. Special Features of the Indian Federation: India is a ‘Union of States’. There are two sets of Government one at the centre and one at the state level.
v. India has a parliamentary form of government: In this system, the parliament is supreme and it represents the people.
vi. Fundamental Rights: The constitution guarantees certain basic rights to all the citizens of India. They are called Fundamental Rights.

3. Write short notes on (i) A federal state. (ii) lndependent judiciary.

Answer: (i) A federal state: A federal state is one in which there is more than one set of government like the case of India. India is a ‘Union of States’. There are two sets of Government one at the centre and one at. the state level. Both have clearly marked and specified areas of functioning. The Constitution has made clear-cut provisions for subjects on which the central and state governments can make laws.

(ii) Independent judiciary: The Constitution provides the people of India with an independent and impartial judiciary. In case of any conflict between the Union and the State Governments, the judiciary plays the role of an impartial umpire. The. Supreme Court of India decides all the disputes between the Centre and a state or between two or more States. The Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts cannot be appointed or removed at will by the Union Government.

4. Explain the following terms:
(i) Justice (ii) Liberty (iii) Equality (iv) Fraternity

Answer: (i) Justice: Justice means being just and fair impartially. In India, citizens cannot be discriminated on the grounds of caste, religion, and gender and a continuous attempt ought to be made to remove inequality. Also, the government should work for the welfare of all, especially of the disadvantaged groups.

(ii) Liberty: Liberty means freedom from oppressive authority that try to limit one’s life. In India, there are no unreasonable restrictions on the citizens in what they think, how they wish to express their thoughts and the way they wish to follow up their thoughts in action.

(iii) Equality: The state of being equal with everyone can be termed as equality. In India, all are equal before the law. The traditional social inequalities ought to be reduced and removed, while the government does and should ensure equal opportunity for all.

(iv) Fraternity: Fraternity means mutual support within a group. In India, all of us should behave as if we are members of the same family. No one should treat a fellow citizen as inferior.

5. Describe the basic features of the Indian Constitution. Why they cannot be amended?

Answer: The basic features of the Indian Constitution are:

(i) The supremacy of the Constitution.
(ii) Republican and Democratic form of the Government.
(iii)SecularcharacteroftheConstitution.
(iv) Separation of powers between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.
(v) Federal character of the Constitution

The basic structure is built on the basic foundation, i.e., the dignity and freedom of the individual. Therefore, this cannot be amended in any form.

Extra MCQs

1: On which date was the first meeting of the Constituent Assembly held?

A. 15 August 1947
B. 9 December 1946
C. 26 January 1950
D. 10 December 1947

Answer: B. 9 December 1946

2: Who served as the chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution?

A. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
B. Jawaharlal Nehru
C. K. M. Munshi
D. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

Answer: D. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar

3: The concept of the Parliamentary system with the Prime Minister as its head was borrowed from the constitution of which country?

A. United States of America
B. France
C. United Kingdom
D. Ireland

Answer: C. United Kingdom

4: When was the Constitution of India formally adopted by the Constituent Assembly?

A. 26 January 1950
B. 15 August 1947
C. 26 November 1949
D. 9 December 1946

Answer: C. 26 November 1949

5: The words ‘Socialist’, ‘Secular’, and ‘Unity and Integrity of the Nation’ were added to the Preamble through an amendment in which year?

A. 1950
B. 1976
C. 1985
D. 2002

Answer: B. 1976

6: Who was elected as the President of the Constituent Assembly?

A. Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
B. Jawaharlal Nehru
C. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
D. Mahatma Gandhi

Answer: C. Dr. Rajendra Prasad

7: From which country’s constitution were the ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity borrowed?

A. Germany
B. United States of America
C. France
D. United Kingdom

Answer: C. France

8: The power of the judiciary to review and declare a law unconstitutional if it contravenes Fundamental Rights is known as what?

A. Parliamentary Supremacy
B. Judicial Review
C. Federalism
D. Directive Principle

Answer: B. Judicial Review

9: What does the term ‘Republic’ signify in the Indian context?

A. The government is elected by the people.
B. There is a separation of powers.
C. The head of the state is elected, not hereditary.
D. All citizens have equal rights.

Answer: C. The head of the state is elected, not hereditary.

10: How many officially recognised languages are there in the Indian Constitution?

A. 18
B. 20
C. 24
D. 22

Answer: D. 22

11: Which of the following is not one of the problems India faced immediately after independence?

A. Widespread illiteracy
B. An established industrial base
C. Poverty
D. Underdevelopment

Answer: B. An established industrial base

12: The Government of India Act of 1935 was a significant step towards a parliamentary system because it allowed for what?

A. The establishment of universities
B. The introduction of railways
C. Elected representatives to run provincial governments
D. The abolition of princely states

Answer: C. Elected representatives to run provincial governments

13: In the Indian federal system, the list of subjects on which both the central and state governments can make laws is called the:

A. Union List
B. State List
C. Concurrent List
D. Federal List

Answer: C. Concurrent List

14: What is the key objective of the Directive Principles of State Policy?

A. To guarantee fundamental rights to citizens.
B. To establish an independent judiciary.
C. To provide guidelines for the government to create a welfare state.
D. To define the powers of the Parliament.

Answer: C. To provide guidelines for the government to create a welfare state.

15: Which feature of the Indian Constitution ensures that all religions are given equal importance and that there is a separation of state from religion?

A. Sovereign
B. Socialist
C. Democratic
D. Secular

Answer: D. Secular

16: Statement I: India is a Republic.
Statement II: The head of the state, the President, is elected for a specific period and is not a hereditary ruler.

A. Statement I is the cause of Statement II.
B. Both statements are true, and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I.
C. Both statements are true, but Statement II is not the correct explanation for Statement I.
D. Statement I is true, but Statement II is false.

Answer: B. Both statements are true, and Statement II is the correct explanation for Statement I.

17: Statement I: The Indian Constitution provides for a single citizenship.
Statement II: Unlike in the USA, a citizen of India is not also a citizen of the specific state in which they reside.

A. Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
B. Statement I is a contradiction of Statement II.
C. Statement II is an example that clarifies Statement I.
D. Statement II is the cause of Statement I.

Answer: C. Statement II is an example that clarifies Statement I.

18: Assertion (A): In India, the Central Government is more powerful than the State Governments.
Reason (R): The Union List contains more subjects of national importance, and the Centre has greater powers in the Concurrent List.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Answer: A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

19: Statement I: The Preamble is an introduction to the Constitution.
Statement II: The Preamble contains the basic ideals and principles of the Constitution, such as Justice, Liberty, and Equality.

A. Statement I is a contradiction of Statement II.
B. Statement I and Statement II are independent of each other.
C. Statement I is false, and Statement II is true.
D. Statement II provides details that support Statement I.

Answer: D. Statement II provides details that support Statement I.

20: Assertion (A): The Constitution guarantees certain basic rights to all citizens, known as Fundamental Rights.
Reason (R): The incorporation of Fundamental Rights makes Judicial Review a necessary feature of the Constitution.

A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
B. Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A).
C. (A) is true, but (R) is false.
D. (A) is false, but (R) is true.

Answer: A. Both (A) and (R) are true, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

21: Statement I: The Indian Constitution is described as a unique blend of flexibility and rigidity.
Statement II: The ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution can be easily amended by a simple majority in Parliament.

A. Statement I is true, but Statement II is false.
B. Statement I is false, but Statement II is true.
C. Both Statement I and Statement II are true.
D. Both Statement I and Statement II are false.

Answer: A. Statement I is true, but Statement II is false.

22: Arrange the following events related to the framing of the Indian Constitution in the correct chronological order.

(i) The Constitution was enforced.
(ii) The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held.
(iii) The number of seats in the Assembly was reduced due to Partition.
(iv) The Constituent Assembly adopted the Constitution.

A. (ii) → (iii) → (iv) → (i)
B. (i) → (ii) → (iii) → (iv)
C. (iii) → (ii) → (i) → (iv)
D. (ii) → (iv) → (iii) → (i)

Answer: A. (ii) → (iii) → (iv) → (i)

23: Select the option that lists the following Government of India Acts in the correct chronological sequence.

(i) Government of India Act of 1919
(ii) Indian Council Act of 1909
(iii) Government of India Act of 1935

A. (i) → (ii) → (iii)
B. (ii) → (i) → (iii)
C. (iii) → (i) → (ii)
D. (ii) → (iii) → (i)

Answer: B. (ii) → (i) → (iii)

24: Arrange the following constitutional developments and amendments in the order they occurred.

(i) The words ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ were added to the Preamble.
(ii) The state of Telangana was carved out of Andhra Pradesh.
(iii) The Constitution came into effect.
(iv) The states of Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand were created.

A. (iii) → (iv) → (i) → (ii)
B. (i) → (iii) → (iv) → (ii)
C. (iii) → (i) → (iv) → (ii)
D. (iv) → (i) → (iii) → (ii)

Answer: C. (iii) → (i) → (iv) → (ii)

25: Consider the following steps in the development of democratic ideas in India under British rule. Choose the correct chronological order.

(i) Elected representatives began running governments in the provinces.
(ii) Universities were established in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai.
(iii) The Indian Council Act was passed, giving limited voting rights.
(iv) English language and modern education were introduced.

A. (iv) → (ii) → (iii) → (i)
B. (ii) → (iv) → (i) → (iii)
C. (i) → (iii) → (ii) → (iv)
D. (iv) → (iii) → (ii) → (i)

Answer: A. (iv) → (ii) → (iii) → (i)

Extra questions and answers

1. How did the impact of British rule lead to the development of modern democracy in India?

Answer: The impact of British rule in India led to the development of modern democracy in several ways. The first step was the introduction of the English language and modern education, which led to an awakening among Indians and made educated Indians familiar with the ideas of thinkers from all parts of the world. The colonial rule also gave unity to India by bringing it under one strong central rule. Infrastructure like railways and telecommunications, though built for British benefit, helped bring educated Indians from all parts of the country together.

Various Acts passed by the British, such as the Indian Council Act of 1909 and the Government of India Acts of 1919 and 1935, established legislative assemblies and gave limited voting rights to Indians. These Acts gave India its parliamentary system in bits and pieces. The experience gained by Indians in the working of these legislative institutions proved to be very useful for the country in setting up its own institutions when India became free.

2. Why did the British introduce the English language and modern education in India?

Answer: The British introduced the English language and modern education in India for their own convenience and not for the benefit of the Indians.

3. In which year and cities were the first universities established by the British in India?

Answer: The British established the first universities in 1857, in Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai.

4. How did newspapers contribute to the awakening of Indians during the colonial rule?

Answer: Newspapers, printed in English and Indian languages, spread ideas and information about freedom and justice. They made the Indians aware of their exploitation by the British and helped them develop a critical view of the British rule.

5. How did railways and telecommunications, started by the British, help the Indians?

Answer: The railways and the new projects of telecommunications started by the British brought educated Indians from all parts of India together and helped them to come together.

6. Which Acts gave India its parliamentary system in bits and pieces under the British?

Answer: The Indian Council Act of 1909 and the Government of India Acts of 1919 and 1935 were the steps which gave us our parliamentary system in bits and pieces under the British.

7. What percentage of the population was allowed to vote under the British Acts?

Answer: The British Acts allowed 10% of the population to vote.

8. What were the main problems India faced immediately after independence?

Answer: India, after independence, faced the problems of:

(i) widespread illiteracy,
(ii) poverty, and
(iii) underdevelopment.

9. What is a Constitution?

Answer: A Constitution is a set of well-defined rules that explain the powers of different organs of the government. It is a body of fundamental principles according to which a state is governed. The constitution of a country is a set of written rules that are accepted by all people living together in a country.

10. What are the three organs of government whose powers a Constitution defines?

Answer: A Constitution defines the powers of the legislature, the executive, and the judiciary.

11. Name two countries with a written constitution.

Answer: USA and India are two countries with a written constitution.

12. Name a country with an unwritten constitution.

Answer: The UK is a country with an unwritten constitution.

13. How was the Constitution of India framed?

Answer: The Constitution of India was framed by the representatives of the Indian people. It was discussed and adopted in an assembly of people’s representatives and nominees from the then native states. These great minds of India, after a period of long discussions and debates, and keeping in mind the diversity and aspirations of the people of India, framed the Constitution. They began their work by referring to the various Constitutions and documents of the world.

14. On what date was the Indian Constitution discussed and adopted by the assembly?

Answer: The Indian Constitution was discussed and adopted by the assembly on 26 November 1949.

15. On what principle did the framers of the Constitution work?

Answer: The framers of the Constitution worked on the principle of sovereignty of the people.

16. Under which plan was the Constituent Assembly set up?

Answer: The Constituent Assembly was set up in accordance with the views of the Cabinet Mission Plan (1946).

17. How many members did the Constituent Assembly initially have from provinces and princely states?

Answer: The Constituent Assembly initially had 292 members from the provinces and 93 from princely states, making a total of 385 members.

18. To how many members was the Constituent Assembly reduced after the Partition in 1947?

Answer: After the Partition in 1947, the number of seats in the Constituent Assembly was reduced to 299.

19. What is the significance of 26th January 1950 in Indian history?

Answer: The Constitution of India came into effect or was enforced on 26 January 1950. To mark this day, we celebrate January 26 as Republic Day every year.

20. Who moved the Objectives Resolution in the Constituent Assembly?

Answer: Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru spelled out the objectives of the Constitution in his Objectives Resolution.

21. What feature did the Indian Constitution borrow from the United States of America?

Answer: The Indian Constitution borrowed the features of a republic with the President as its head, the Federal System of Government, and Fundamental Rights from the United States of America.

22. What ideas were borrowed from the Constitution of France?

Answer: The ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity were borrowed from the Constitution of France.

23. From which country was the concept of Directive Principles of State Policy borrowed?

Answer: The concept of Directive Principles of State Policy was borrowed from Ireland.

24. What provision was borrowed from the Constitution of Germany?

Answer: The provision for Emergency Provisions was borrowed from the Constitution of Germany.

25. What are the four main values on which our Constitution is based?

Answer: The four main values on which our Constitution is based are:

(i) Social Equality
(ii) Freedom of the individual
(iii) Socialism
(iv) Secularism

26. What are the main objectives of the Constitution?

Answer: The main objectives of the Constitution are to secure for every citizen Justice, liberty, equality and to promote fraternity.

27. What does the word ‘Sovereign’ mean in the context of the Indian Constitution?

Answer: In the context of the Indian Constitution, ‘Sovereign’ means supreme power. As a supreme power, India is free from any kind of external control. The people of India have the right to make their own decisions on external as well as internal matters.

28. From where does the Indian Constitution derive its authority?

Answer: The Indian Constitution derives its authority from the people, and the people are sovereign. This is evident from the very first words of the Preamble: “We the people of India.”

29. What is a Republic?

Answer: A republic is a state which has an elected head and does not have a hereditary ruler. The head of the state, the President, is elected by the people for a specific period.

30. What is the key idea behind the concept of Socialism in the Indian Constitution?

Answer: The key idea behind the concept of Socialism in the Indian Constitution primarily means an equal distribution of wealth in society, lessening of economic disparities, and protection of the working people against exploitation.

31. What does ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhava’ mean in the context of Indian secularism?

Answer: In the context of Indian secularism, ‘Sarva Dharma Sambhava’ means equal respect for all religions, which is the motto of Indian secularism as opposed to communalism.

32. What is the concurrent list in the Indian federal system?

Answer: In the Indian federal system, the concurrent list contains subjects on which both the central and state governments can make laws.

33. What is meant by single citizenship in India?

Answer: Single citizenship in India means that every citizen votes as an Indian citizen. Unlike in some federations like the USA, where a person has dual citizenship (of the country and their state), in India, there is only one citizenship.

34. What is the legislature at the centre called?

Answer: The legislature at the centre is called the Parliament or the ‘Sansad’.

35. What is the role of the President in India’s parliamentary system?

Answer: In India’s parliamentary system, the government is carried in the name of the President at the centre, and an elected president is at the head of the parliamentary system.

36. What are Fundamental Rights?

Answer: Fundamental Rights are certain basic rights guaranteed by the Constitution to all the citizens of India.

37. What is meant by the term ‘judicial review’?

Answer: ‘Judicial review’ is the power of the courts to review the policies of the Government if they seem to violate the Constitution in any way.

38. What is the aim of the Directive Principles of State Policy?

Answer: The aim of the Directive Principles of State Policy is to provide for a welfare state and to secure a social order which promotes the welfare and development of the people.

39. For which groups does the Constitution provide reservation of seats in legislatures?

Answer: The Constitution provides reservation of seats in legislatures for socially backward classes of people called the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.

40. What is the official language of India?

Answer: Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language of India.

41. What is the status of the English language according to the language policy?

Answer: According to the language policy, English continues to be the Associate official language.

42. How many languages are recognised by the Constitution?

Answer: There are 22 recognised languages in the country according to the Constitution.

43. How can most provisions of the Constitution be amended?

Answer: Most of the provisions of the Constitution can be amended by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament.

44. What is the current voting age in India?

Answer: The current voting age in India is 18.

45. Name the three states that were carved out in the year 2000.

Answer: The three states carved out in the year 2000 were Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand.

46. What is the supremacy of the Constitution?

Answer: The supremacy of the Constitution means that it is the supreme law of the country. Every law which a government frames has to be according to the Constitution, and it determines the relationship among citizens and also between the people and the government.

47. How did the introduction of Western thought and political ideas lead to an awakening among Indians?

Answer: The introduction of the English language and modern education, along with the establishment of universities in 1857, led to an awakening among Indians. This exposure to western thought and political ideas, facilitated by the English language, made educated Indians familiar with the ideas of thinkers from all parts of the world. Newspapers printed in English and Indian languages spread ideas and information about freedom and justice, making Indians aware of their exploitation by the British. This led them to develop a critical view of British rule.

48. Explain the role of the Government of India Acts of 1919 and 1935 in shaping India’s parliamentary system.

Answer: The Government of India Acts of 1919 and 1935 were steps that gave us our parliamentary system, which came to India in bits and pieces under the British. These acts gave us our central and provincial councils, recognition of the principle of electorates, and allowed 10% of the population to vote. By 1937, elected representatives were running governments in the provinces. The experience gained by Indians in the working of these legislative institutions proved to be very useful for the country in setting up its own institutions when India became free.

49. What are the multiple roles that a Constitution plays in a country?

Answer: A constitution plays multiple roles:

• It generates a degree of trust and coordination that is necessary for different kinds of people to live together.
• It specifies the structure and power of the government.
• It lays down limits on the powers of the government.
• It explains the rights of the citizens.
• It also expresses the aspirations of the people about creating a good society.

50. How was the Constituent Assembly of India composed? Who were its members?

Answer: The Constituent Assembly was formed through indirect elections. Provincial assemblies elected their representatives, and princely states nominated their members. Initially, it had 385 members, with 292 from the provinces and 93 from princely states. After the Partition in 1947, the number of seats was reduced to 299.

51. Who were the eminent members of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution?

Answer: The chairman of the Drafting Committee was Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Its other eminent members were leaders and legal stalwarts like K.M. Munshi, Gopalaswamy Ayyangar, Alladi Krishnaswamy Iyer, Syed Saadulla, N. Madhava Rao and T.T. Krishnamachari.

52. What were the challenges the Constitution makers faced while framing the Constitution?

Answer: The Constitution makers had to frame the constitution immediately after independence, a time when India had to pass through terrible communal riots which threatened its very existence. They had to make the best possible laws under such circumstances. Additionally, after independence, India faced the problems of widespread illiteracy, poverty, and underdevelopment.

53. What did the Objectives Resolution spell out for the future of India?

Answer: The Objectives Resolution, spelled out by Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru, laid down the following principles for India:

• India is an Independent, Sovereign Republic.
• India shall be a Union of erstwhile British Indian territories, Indian States and other parts outside British India and States as are willing to be part of the Union.
• Territories forming the Union shall be autonomous units and exercise all powers and functions of government and administration, except those assigned to or vested in the Union.
• All powers and authority of sovereign independent India and its constituents will flow from the people.
• All people of India shall be guaranteed social, economic and political justice; equality of status and opportunities before the law; and fundamental freedoms of talk, expression, belief, faith, worship, vocation, association and action.

54. What are the key values and objectives that form the foundation of our constitution?

Answer: The Constitution is based on certain values and objectives.

The values are:
(i) Social Equality
(ii) Freedom of the individual
(iii) Socialism
(iv) Secularism

The objectives are:
To secure for every citizen Justice, liberty, equality and to promote fraternity.

55. Explain the meaning of India being a ‘Sovereign Democratic Republic’.

Answer: The term ‘Sovereign Democratic Republic’ has the following meanings:

Sovereign: Sovereign means supreme power. As a supreme power, India is free from any kind of external control. The people of India have the right to make their own decisions on external as well as internal matters.
Democratic: Democratic means that India is a democracy where the people elect their own government at all levels (central, state, and local). Representatives are chosen through universal adult franchise in periodical free and fair elections. People enjoy equal rights, and the government remains in power as long as it has the support of the majority in the legislature.
Republic: Republic means that India does not have a hereditary ruler. The head of the state, the President, is elected by the people for a specific period.

56. What is meant by a ‘Socialist Secular State’ as mentioned in the Preamble?

Answer: A ‘Socialist Secular State’ means:

Socialist: The concept of socialism primarily means an equal distribution of wealth in society, a lessening of economic disparities, and the protection of working people against exploitation. It underlines economic growth with social justice, directing the state to ensure employment, education, and social justice and to abolish social evils.
Secular: Secularism means the separation of the state from religion. The state is neither pro-religion nor anti-religion but allows people of all faiths equal freedom of worship. The Constitution recognises the right of all religious communities to manage their own affairs and places of worship. No one can be discriminated against on the basis of religion in education, employment, or other fields.

57. How does the Constitution aim to secure Justice and Liberty for all its citizens?

Answer: The Constitution secures Justice and Liberty in the following ways:

Justice: Citizens cannot be discriminated against on the grounds of caste, religion, and gender. Social inequalities have to be reduced, and the government should work for the welfare of all, especially the disadvantaged groups.
Liberty: There are no unreasonable restrictions on citizens in what they think, how they wish to express their thoughts, and the way they wish to follow up their thoughts in action.

58. How does the Constitution promote Equality and Fraternity among the people of India?

Answer: The Constitution promotes Equality and Fraternity in the following ways:

Equality: All are equal before the law. Traditional social inequalities have to be ended, and the government should ensure equal opportunity for all.
Fraternity: All of us should behave as if we are members of the same family. No one should treat a fellow citizen as inferior.

59. How is the Indian Federation different from other federations regarding the power of the centre?

Answer: Unlike other federations, in India, the centre is more powerful than the states. The Union List has more subjects, and they are of national importance. In the Concurrent List, the centre has been given more powers.

60. What provisions for an emergency are made in the Constitution of India?

Answer: The Constitution of India has made provisions for an emergency. It specifies certain conditions under which an emergency can be declared. At the time of an emergency, the Central Government is given more powers than the State Governments.

61. Describe the key features of the parliamentary system of government in India.

Answer: India has a parliamentary form of government where the parliament is supreme and represents the people. The central legislature is called the Parliament or ‘Sansad’, and it is bicameral, meaning it has two Houses. Though the government is carried on in the name of the President at the centre and the Governor in the states, the actual administration is in the hands of the Council of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister at the Centre and the Chief Minister in the states. Because India is a ‘Republic’, an elected president, not a monarch, is the head of the parliamentary system.

62. Why is an independent and impartial judiciary essential for a democracy?

Answer: An independent and impartial judiciary is essential because it provides the people of India with a system of justice free from influence. In case of any conflict between the Union and State Governments, the judiciary acts as an impartial umpire. The Supreme Court decides disputes between the Centre and a state or between two or more states. The judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts cannot be appointed or removed at will by the Union Government. The judiciary also has the power of ‘judicial review’, which allows it to review government policies and declare a law unconstitutional if it violates the Constitution, thereby protecting the Fundamental Rights of citizens.

63. What is the purpose of the Reservation Policy as provided in the Constitution?

Answer: The purpose of the Reservation Policy is to provide opportunities for socially backward and weaker sections of society. The Constitution provides for the reservation of seats in legislatures for socially backward classes like the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Jobs are reserved for weaker sections in government services, and admissions are reserved in educational institutions. Seats are also reserved for women in local government bodies.

64. Explain the language policy of India.

Answer: The language policy of India has been framed with great care. Hindi in Devanagari script is the official language, while English continues as the Associate official language. States can adopt the language spoken by the people of that state as its official language. There are 22 recognised languages in the country.

65. How is the Indian Constitution considered both rigid and flexible?

Answer: The Indian Constitution is a unique blend of flexibility and rigidity. It is flexible because certain actions can be taken by the Parliament with a simple majority, as required for general legislation. It is rigid because some other decisions, specifically the amendment of a few provisions, can only be taken after ratification by at least half of the state legislatures. Most provisions of the Constitution can be amended by a two-thirds majority in both houses of Parliament.

66. What are the key components that form the ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution?

Answer: According to a judgement of the Supreme Court, the basic structure of the Constitution consists of the following:

(i) Supremacy of the Constitution.
(ii) Republican and Democratic form of the Government.
(iii) Secular character of the Constitution.
(iv) Separation of powers between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.
(v) Federal character of the Constitution.

This structure is built on the basic foundation of the dignity and freedom of the individual, which cannot be amended or destroyed.

67. Describe how various initiatives by the British, although for their own benefit, helped in uniting India.

Answer: The impact of British rule in India led to the development of modern democracy. The British introduced the English language and modern education for their own convenience, not for the benefit of Indians. This exposure to western thought and political ideas led to an awakening among Indians, and English made educated Indians familiar with the ideas of thinkers in all parts of the world. Newspapers printed in English and Indian languages spread ideas about freedom and justice, making Indians aware of their exploitation and helping them develop a critical view of British rule.

The colonial rule gave unity to India and brought its people under one strong central rule. The railways and new telecommunications projects started by the British brought educated Indians from all parts of India together. Though all these projects were made by the British for their own benefit, so that they could plunder our resources easily and quickly, they helped the Indians to come together.

68. “In India, we first became democratic and started building our nation.” Explain this statement in the context of post-independence challenges.

Answer: After independence, India faced the problems of widespread illiteracy, poverty, and underdevelopment. In contrast, European nations were economically strong and industrially advanced when they became democratic. In India, we first became democratic and then started building our nation and dealing with the problems which faced it. The government was given the major role to eradicate illiteracy and poverty and to build up a strong democratic nation.

69. Describe the process of the framing of the Indian Constitution, from the formation of the Constituent Assembly to its final adoption.

Answer: The Constitution of India was framed by the representatives of the Indian people. In accordance with the views of the Cabinet Mission Plan of 1946, a Constituent Assembly was set up to write a Constitution for India. Indirect elections were held, where provincial assemblies elected their representatives and princely states nominated their members. Initially, it had 385 members, but after Partition in 1947, the number was reduced to 299.

The first meeting of the Constituent Assembly was held on 9th December 1946, and Dr. Rajendra Prasad was elected its President. The Assembly formed various smaller committees to carry on its work systematically. The most important of these was the Drafting Committee, with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar as its chairman. The members began their work by referring to various Constitutions and documents of the world.

The Constituent Assembly finally adopted the Constitution on 26 November 1949, and it came into effect on 26 January 1950.

70. Explain the key principles laid down in Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s Objectives Resolution.

Answer: The key principles spelled out in Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru’s Objectives Resolution are:

• India is an Independent, Sovereign Republic.
• India shall be a Union of erstwhile British Indian territories, Indian States and other parts outside British India and States as are willing to be part of the Union.
• Territories forming the Union shall be autonomous units and exercise all powers and functions of government and administration, except those assigned to or vested in the Union.
• All powers and authority of sovereign independent India and its constituents will flow from the people.
• All people of India shall be guaranteed social, economic and political justice; equality of status and opportunities before the law; and fundamental freedoms of talk, expression, belief, faith, worship, vocation, association and action.

71. The Indian Constitution has borrowed features from many countries. Explain the key features borrowed from the UK and the USA.

Answer: The key features borrowed from the Constitutions of the United Kingdom and the United States of America are:

United Kingdom: The Parliamentary system with Prime Minister as its head.
United States of America: A republic with the President as its head, Federal System of Government, and Fundamental Rights.

72. Explain the ideals of Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity as enshrined in the Preamble of the Constitution.

Answer: The ideals enshrined in the Preamble are:

Justice: Citizens cannot be discriminated on the grounds of caste, religion and gender. Social inequalities have to be reduced. The government should work for the welfare of all, especially of the disadvantaged groups.
Liberty: There are no unreasonable restrictions on the citizens in what they think, how they wish to express their thoughts and the way they wish to follow up their thoughts in action.
Equality: All are equal before the law. The traditional social inequalities have to be ended. The government should ensure equal opportunity for all.
Fraternity: All of us should behave as if we are members of the same family. No one should treat a fellow citizen as inferior.

73. What are the special features of the Indian Federation? How does it ensure both unity and autonomy?

Answer: India is a ‘Union of States’ with special features that ensure both unity and autonomy.

The features are:
(i) There are two sets of government: the Union Government at the centre and the State Government at the state level. Both have clearly marked and specified areas of functioning, which provides autonomy to the states.
(ii) Unlike other federations, the centre in India is more powerful than the states. The Union List has more subjects of national importance, and in the Concurrent List, the centre has been given more powers. This helps maintain unity.
(iii) India has single citizenship. In an election, every citizen votes as an Indian citizen, unlike in some federations where dual citizenship is given. This promotes a sense of national unity.
(iv) The Constitution has provisions for an emergency. During an emergency, the Central Government is given more powers than the State Governments, further strengthening the unity of the nation.

74. What are Fundamental Rights? Why is the provision of an independent judiciary crucial for their protection?

Answer: The Constitution guarantees certain basic rights to all the citizens of India, which are called Fundamental Rights. According to them, all citizens are equal before the law, and there is no discrimination on the basis of one’s caste, creed, and belief. The rights of minorities to maintain their culture and education are also guaranteed.

The provision of an independent and impartial judiciary is crucial for the protection of these rights because if the rights are violated, citizens can approach the courts to seek protection.

75. Explain the concept of ‘judicial review’. How does it help maintain a balance between parliamentary supremacy and constitutional principles?

Answer: The power of the courts to review the policies of the Government if they seem to violate the Constitution in any way is called ‘judicial review’. The incorporation of Fundamental Rights in the Constitution makes judicial review necessary.

It helps maintain a fine balance between parliamentary supremacy and constitutional principles. The Supreme Court has the power to declare a law unconstitutional if it is in contravention of the Fundamental Rights. On the other hand, the Parliament can amend the Constitution by a special majority, but it cannot alter the ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution. This ensures that while the parliament has the power to make and amend laws, it cannot go against the core principles of the Constitution, which the judiciary protects.

76. What are the Directive Principles of State Policy? Explain their aim with examples.

Answer: The Directive Principles of State Policy are certain guidelines provided by the Constitution for governments to follow when making policies.

Their aim is to provide for a welfare state and to secure a social order which promotes the welfare and development of the people.

Examples of these principles include providing adequate and basic means of livelihood to all citizens and ensuring the distribution of wealth in such a way that the rich don’t become richer and the poor, poorer.

77. The Constitution has undergone many changes since 1950. Describe some of the major amendments.

Answer: Some of the major amendments to the Constitution since 1950 are:

• The age of voting has been reduced from 21 to 18.
• The right to property is no longer a fundamental right. It is like any other legal right.
• Fundamental Duties have been incorporated in the Constitution.
• New states have been carved out, such as Uttarakhand, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand in 2000, and the state of Telangana was carved out of Andhra Pradesh in 2014.

78. “The Preamble is the soul of the Indian Constitution.” Discuss this statement by explaining the values and objectives enshrined within it.

Answer: The Preamble is an introduction to the Constitution and contains the basic ideals and principles. Looking at the Preamble, we can see that our Constitution is based on certain values which inspired our freedom struggle and later became the foundation of our constitution.

The values enshrined in the Preamble are: (i) Social Equality, (ii) Freedom of the individual, (iii) Socialism, and (iv) Secularism.

The objectives of the Preamble are to secure for every citizen Justice, liberty, equality and to promote fraternity. The Preamble states:

We, the people of India, having solemnly resolved to constitute India into a Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic and to secure to all its citizens.
Justice, social, economic and political.
Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship.
Equality of status and of opportunity; and to promote among them all.
Fraternity assuring the dignity of the individual and the unity and integrity of the Nation.

These values and objectives form the core of the constitution, making the Preamble its soul.

79. What is the ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution? Explain its components and why it cannot be amended by the Parliament.

Answer: The ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution consists of its core principles which cannot be amended by the Parliament. According to a judgement of the Supreme Court, the basic structure consists of the following:

(i) Supremacy of the Constitution.
(ii) Republican and Democratic form of the Government.
(iii) Secular character of the Constitution.
(iv) Separation of powers between the Legislature, the Executive and the Judiciary.
(v) Federal character of the Constitution.

This structure cannot be amended because it is built on the basic foundation of dignity and freedom of the individual which cannot be amended or destroyed.