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System of Representation: NBSE Class 11 Political Science notes
Here, you will find summaries, questions, answers, textbook solutions, pdf, extras etc. of (Nagaland Board) NBSE Class 12 Political Science Chapter 12: System of Representation. These solutions, however, should be only treated as references and can be modified/changed.
If you notice any errors in the notes, please mention them in the comments
Introduction
The chapter provides an overview of the electoral system in India, focusing on the First Past the Post System (FPTP), the composition and role of the Election Commission, and measures to ensure free and fair elections.
The FPTP system, prevalent in countries like Britain and India, is a simple majority system. The candidate with more votes than any other, even if it’s a small proportion of the total votes, wins. This system has its merits and demerits. Its simplicity makes it easy for voters to understand, and it increases the chances of a single party gaining a majority in the House, thus providing political stability. However, it’s criticized for being undemocratic as the elected person may not represent the majority of the voters. Also, minority parties have little chance of fair representation.
The Election Commission in India is a three-member body appointed by the President. The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners hold office for a term of six years or until they attain the age of 65 years. The Commission’s main functions include preparation of the electoral rolls and photo identity cards.
It also highlights measures to ensure free and fair elections, such as adult suffrage, an independent Election Commission, restrictions on election spending, and the use of electronic voting machines. It also discusses electoral reforms like proportional representation, concerns about the role of money and muscle power in elections, and reservation of seats for women.
Textual questions and answers
A. Long answer questions
1. What is First Past the Post System? What are demerits of the First Past the Post (FPTP) election system?
Answer: The First Past the Post System (FPTP) is a simple majority system followed by most countries. It is usually referred to as First Past the Post (FPTP) System and is prevalent in countries such as Britain. In these countries, there are single-member constituencies. The winner is the person with more votes than any other candidate even though the winner may receive only a small proportion of the total number of votes. In other words, the post marks the finishing point on an election-racing track and the candidate who crosses the post first is declared the winner.
The demerits of the First Past the Post System are as follows:
The system seems to be undemocratic because the person elected may not represent the majority of the voters in the constituency. For instance, if four candidates contest the election and they receive votes in the following order: A-100000, B-50,000, C-70,000, and D-50,000, A shall be declared elected for whom only one-third of the voters have cast their votes.
Under this system, minorities or the minority parties have hardly any chance of fair representation. The majority must rule, but that does not mean that the minority should have no representation at all.
2. Why did India adopt the First Past the Post election system? Give any two examples to show that in this system it is difficult to convert the Vote Share into Seat Share.
Answer: India adopted the First Past the Post election system due to several reasons. It is for these reasons that the framers of the Constitution of India opposed the adoption of Proportional Representation for the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. Under the Indian Councils Act, 1909 the British Government introduced the system of Communal Electorates (Separate Electorates) in India. The Act provided for separate representation of the Muslim community at the Centre as well as in Provincial Legislatures. The Government of India Act, 1919 extended this privilege to other communities as well, namely the Sikhs, the Anglo-Indians, Europeans and the Indian Christians. This was all done in order to work at the policy of “divide and rule”. Community was set against community and the growth of a healthy political system became impossible. That is the reason why makers of the Constitution of India rejected the system of separate electorates.
Two examples to show that in the First Past the Post System, it is difficult to convert the Vote Share into Seat Share are:
- In the 2014 elections, the BJP obtained only 31 per cent of the total votes polled, yet it could win 282 Lok Sabha seats, i.e., nearly 52 per cent of the total number of elective seats. The Congress, which obtained 19.4 per cent of the total votes, could win only 44 Lok Sabha seats, i.e., nearly 8 per cent of the total 543 seats.
- On the other hand, the AIADMK, with only 3.3 per cent of the votes, could have a tally of 37 Lok Sabha MPs.
3. Discuss the following methods of Proportional Representation:
(a) The List System
Answer: The List System is a method of proportional representation in the electoral process. In this system, each party prepares a list of candidates for a given constituency. The voters vote for the party, not for the candidate. The seats in the legislature are then distributed among the parties in proportion to the votes they receive. For instance, if a particular party obtains 50% or a few more votes in a particular constituency, the first five candidates in the list drawn up by that party will be declared elected. This system is used in Belgium, Sweden, Italy, Portugal, and several other countries. Under this system, each constituency elects several representatives.
(b) Cumulative Vote System
Answer: Under this system a voter has as many votes as there are candidates to be elected, and may distribute them as h. likes. This method is in use in Illinois (one of the Fifty States of the USA). In Illinois three members are chosen from each electoral district. Accordingly, each voter has three votes which he may plump on one candidate or distribute among two or three candidates as he chooses. In this way the minority parties can, by concentrating their votes in favour of one candidate, hope to secure at least one seat in the legislature.
4. What is meant by Single Transferable Vote System? How are the members of Rajya Sabha elected in India?
Answer: The Single Transferable Vote System was introduced for the first time in Denmark. At present, it is used in Malta and Northern Ireland. In India, this system is followed for the election of the President of India.
As for the election of the members of the Rajya Sabha in India, they are elected by the elected members of the State Legislative Assemblies in accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferable vote.
5. What are the merits and demerits of Proportional Representation?
Answer: The merits of proportional representation are:
- It ensures that all parties and minorities shall be proportionally represented in the legislature.
- The system of proportional representation is in harmony with the true spirit of democracy. Parliament would then become a true “mirror of the nation”, as it must be in a democracy.
- The Single Transferable Vote System is the only method which ensures that no vote is wasted.
The demerits of proportional representation are:
- The Complexity of the system makes it difficult in practical operation.
- All methods of proportional representation call for Multi-Member Constituencies. As a result, the bonds between the ‘electors’ and the ´representatives’ are bound to be less direct and personal. Large constituencies will also greatly increase the election expenses of the candidates.
- The success of parliamentary system depends upon the existence of two or three well organised national parties. Under proportional representation all governments have necessarily to be “Coalition Governments.” Such governments lack solidarity and stability.
6. Discuss the powers and functions of the Election Commission in India.
Answer: The powers and functions of the Election Commission in India are:
Preparation of the Electoral Rolls and Photo Identity Cards: The Constitution lays down that there shall be one ‘General Electoral Roll’ for every territorial constituency. For free and fair elections the voters are required to bring their Photo Identity Cards or some other document, allowed by the Election Commission.
Recognition to Political Parties: There are a number of national and State parties in India. The Election Commission grants recognition to parties for election purposes.
Allotment of Symbols to Parties and Independent Candidates: The national and State level parties can have a reserved symbol for all the candidates nominated by them. The independent candidates can select any symbol out of a list of Free Symbols
Delimitation of Constituencies: The Constitution lays down that after each Census the allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha to States and Union Territories shall be readjusted.
Conduct of Election: The Election Commission conducts all elections to Parliament and the State Legislatures. It also supervises and directs elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President.
Ensuring Free and Fair Election: The Commission takes the following measures to ensure free and fair elections.
Model Code of Conduct: The Election Commission decides the model code of conduct. (a) It lays down that no attempt shall be made to arouse caste or communal feelings, and (b) Ministers shall not combine their official visits with the electioneering work.
Settlement of Disputes as regards Disqualification on Grounds such as being of Unsound Mind or Holding an Office of Profit, etc.: Such a question has to be referred to the President of India. Before giving any decision the President is required to obtain the opinion of the Election Commission and shall act according to such opinion.
7. Mention how does the Constitution ensure that the Election Commission act as an independent body.
Answer: The Constitution ensures that the Commission shall act as an independent body. Its independence is secured by these provisions:
The Election Commission derives its authority from the Constitution. The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners do not receive any instructions from the Government as to how to perform their duties.
The Constitution ensures the Security of Tenure of the Chief Election Commissioner. The Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from office except in like manner as a Judge of the Supreme Court. The conditions of service of the Chief Election Commissioner shall not be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment.
Their salaries and allowances are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India. The same can not be varied to their disadvantage during their term of office.
It is duty of the President or the Governor of a State to make available to the Commission such staff as may be necessary for the conduct of elections. The Commission has complete control over the Staff on election duty.
8. What measures have been taken to ensure free and fair elections in India?
Answer: The Constitution and the election laws ensure that elections are free and fair in India through the following measures:
Adult Suffrage: In the matter of electing representatives to Parliament and State Assemblies, India follows the principle of ‘One Person, One Vote, One Value.’
Management of Elections: The management of Elections is the task of the Election Commission. Its Independence is secured by the Constitution. The Chief Election Commissioner shall not be removed from office except in like manner as a judge of the Supreme Court.
Regulation of Election Expenses: It is a corrupt practice for a candidate to spend more money than the prescribed amount on his election.
Separation of Official and Electioneering Work: The Election Commission prescribed that Ministers shall not combine their official visit with the electioneering work. Moreover, government vehicles and personnel shall not be used for boosting the interests of the party in power.
Monitoring of Sensitive Constituencies: The Election Commission sends observers to sensitive constituencies. If rigging or booth capturing has taken place at a certain polling station, the Commission shall order for a fresh poll.
Prohibition of Arms: Carrying any kind of arms within the vicinity of a polling booth is a cognisable offence. It is punishable with imprisonment up to two years or fine or both.
Use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs): In order to reduce poll-related crimes, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and tamper-proof Video Cameras have been introduced.
Adjudication of Election Petitions: Election petitions are tried by the High Courts. If any corrupt practice has been committed by a returned candidate, the High Court shall declare the election to be void.
B. Short answer questions
9. Who have the right to vote and the right to contest an election in India?
Answer: In India, the right to vote and the right to contest an election are granted as follows:
Right to vote: The Constitution of India gives voting right to every person who is a citizen of India and is not otherwise disqualified under any law. In 1989 the Constitution Sixty first Amendment Act reduced the voting age from 21 to 18 years. The argument advanced for lowering the voting age was that “enfranchisement of the youth shall make them more sensible, more creative.”
Right to contest election: A citizen who is a voter can also contest an election if he is at least 25 years old (in case of the Lok Sabha or the State Assembly) and not less than 30 years of age (in case of the Rajya Sabha or State Legislative Council elections). The disqualifications for membership are:
- holding an office of profit
- unsoundness of mind
- being otherwise disqualified under any law.
10. Discuss the composition of the the Election Commission with reference to:
(a) Appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners
Answer: The Chief Election Commissioner and the other Commissioners are appointed by the President. The President may appoint the Regional Commissioners to assist the Election Commission in its functions.
(b) Their term of office and conditions of service.
Answer: The conditions of service and term of office of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners are as follows:
(i) The Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner shall hold office for a term of six years. However, if the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner has attained the age of 65 years, he shall vacate office on the date on which he attains the said age.
(ii) The Chief Election Commissioner and other Commissioners are paid a salary equal to the salary of a Judge of the Supreme Court.
(iii) If the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners differ in opinion on any matter, such matter shall be decided according to the opinion of the majority.
D. Multiple Choice Questions: Tick (✔) the correct answer.
11. In India the Single Transferable Vote System is followed for the election of:
Answer: (c) President of India
12. In India the Voting Age was lowered from 21 to 18 years by the:
Answer: (a) Constitution Sixty-first Amendment Act, 1989
13. Which of the following elections are not conducted by the Election Commission (the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners)?
Answer: (b) Panchayat Elections
14. Who among the following categories of Citizens are not assured of representation in the Lok Sabha either by Nomination or by Reservation of Seats?
Answer: (b) Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
Additional/extra questions and answers
1. What is the definition of democracy and representative democracy?
Answer: Democracy is defined as “that system of government in which people elect their rulers by voting for them in an election.” In a democracy, the ruling authority is not passed on from father to his son or daughter. Elections are key to democracy. Representative democracy, on the other hand, is based on the idea that while the people cannot be actually present in person at the seat of government, they are considered to be present through their representatives, who make laws and supervise the functioning of the executive.
2. What is the First Past the Post (FPTP) system of elections? Which countries use this system?
Answer: The First Past the Post (FPTP) System is a simple majority system, followed by most countries, where single member constituencies exist. The winner in these elections is the person with more votes than any other candidate, even though the winner may receive only a small proportion of the total number of votes. Countries such as Britain and India use this system.
3. Explain the First Past the Post (FPTP) system using an example?
Answer: In the First Past the Post (FPTP) system, the candidate who receives more votes than any other candidate wins, even if they don’t receive a majority of the votes. For instance, if four candidates contest the election and they receive votes in the following order: A-100,000, B-50,000, C-70,000 and D-50,000, candidate A will be declared elected even though only one-third of the voters have cast their votes for candidate A.
4. List and explain the demerits of the First Past the Post System?
Answer: The First Past the Post system has two main demerits. Firstly, the system can be viewed as undemocratic because the person elected may not represent the majority of the voters in the constituency. For example, if four candidates contest the election and they receive votes in the following order: A-100,000, B-50,000, C-70,000 and D-50,000, candidate A will be declared elected even though only one-third of the voters have cast their votes for candidate A. Secondly, under this system, minorities or the minority parties have hardly any chance of fair representation. While the majority must rule, this system does not guarantee that the minority will have any representation at all.
5. Discuss the merits of the First Past the Post System?
Answer: The First Past the Post system has several merits. Firstly, its main advantage is its simplicity. It can be easily understood by the voters who are simply asked to choose a single candidate or vote for the party they found to be the best. Secondly, this system increases the chances of a single party gaining a majority in the house and being able to govern on its own, thus giving political stability to the country. Lastly, the First Past the Post system has led to the growth of mainly two-party systems, as observed in countries like Britain and the United States. However, in recent years, Britain seems to be losing its traditional two-party system.
Q. Who won the 2016 United States Presidential Election and what was the slogan of his campaign?
Answer: The 2016 United States Presidential Election was won by Donald J. Trump of the Republican Party. His campaign slogan was “To Make Great America Again.”
Q. Explain the symbols for the Democratic Party and the Republican Party in the United States.
Answer: In the United States, political parties have unique symbols to represent them. The ‘Donkey’ is the symbol for the Democratic Party. The donkey is known for its determination and willfulness, traits the Democratic Party seeks to embody. On the other hand, the ‘Elephant’ is a symbol for the Republican Party. Elephants are recognized for their strength and loyalty, which aligns with the values that the Republican Party upholds.
Q. Describe how the First Past the Post System functioned in the First, Second, and Third General Elections in India.
Answer: The First Past the Post System, also known as FPTP, has been the method of voting in India since its independence. In the First, Second, and Third General Elections held in 1952, 1957, and 1962 respectively, there was a significant presence of numerous political parties. Despite this, the Congress Party emerged victorious with a substantial majority in the Lok Sabha. This was largely due to the FPTP system, which benefits the party with the most votes, regardless of whether it has an absolute majority or not. The second-largest party in these elections was the Communist Party of India (CPI), but it had less developed organizational structures across all regions of the country.
Q. What made the 1984 Lok Sabha elections unprecedented in India’s electoral history, and who led the Congress during this time?
Answer: The 1984 Lok Sabha elections were considered an unprecedented event in India’s electoral history because of the enormous victory secured by the Congress Party under the leadership of Shri Rajiv Gandhi. The Congress Party obtained 48% of the total votes but captured more than 70% of the total seats. This disproportionate representation of seats to vote share was facilitated by the First Past the Post System. The BJP, which was the second largest party, managed to get only 7.4% of the total votes and won only 2 Lok Sabha seats. The CPI (M) secured 5.8% of the votes and was able to capture 22 Lok Sabha seats.
Q. Discuss the 2014 Elections results in terms of the number of seats and vote percentages for the BJP, Congress, and AIADMK.
Answer: The 2014 Lok Sabha election results represented a significant shift in Indian politics. The BJP obtained only 31% of the total votes polled, yet it managed to win a majority of the seats, capturing 282 Lok Sabha seats, which was nearly 52% of the total number of elective seats. The Congress, on the other hand, received 19.4% of the total votes but could win only 44 Lok Sabha seats, accounting for nearly 8% of the total 543 seats. Interestingly, the AIADMK, with only 3.3% of the votes, managed to secure a significant representation with a tally of 37 Lok Sabha MPs. These results, showing a disconnect between vote share and seat share, underscore the complexity of the First Past the Post System in India.
Q. Can you elaborate on the difficulty in converting the Vote Share into Seat Share in the First Past the Post System, citing examples from Indian general elections?
Answer: The First Past the Post System is a majoritarian system that gives the victory to the candidate with the most votes, regardless of whether they have an absolute majority or not. This system can lead to a disparity between the vote share a party receives and the seat share it gets in the assembly. For instance, in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP won a sweeping majority with 282 seats, or nearly 52% of the total, despite receiving only 31% of the total votes. Conversely, the Congress party, which received 19.4% of the votes, could only win 44 seats, making up just about 8% of the Lok Sabha. Similarly, the AIADMK with only 3.3% of the votes was able to secure 37 seats. Such discrepancies show that in the FPTP system, a party can win a substantial number of seats without a proportional vote share, making it challenging to convert vote share into seat share. This can also lead to the marginalization of smaller parties, as they may gain a significant portion of votes, but if they don’t have the highest number of votes in a constituency, they won’t secure any representation. Therefore, the FPTP system, while simple to understand and implement, has its limitations in providing a comprehensive representation of the people’s will based on their voting choices.
Q. What is the concept of proportional representation in the context of political parties?
Answer: Proportional representation refers to the method of voting where each political party wins the number of seats in proportion to the votes cast for that party. This system ensures that all parties and minorities get represented proportionally in the legislature, aligning with the true spirit of democracy.
Q. Describe the system where the entire country is treated as a single constituency. Which countries use this system?
Answer: When the entire country is treated as a single constituency, voters cast their votes for a party, not for individual candidates. Each party wins seats in proportion to the votes it receives. This system is prevalent in Israel and the Netherlands. In Israel, for example, more than ten parties have representation in the Knesset, Israel’s Parliament, according to their share of votes in the General Election.
Q. What is the List System when the country is divided into several separate constituencies? Provide some countries where this system is used.
Answer: In the List System, the country is divided into several separate constituencies. Political parties draw up a list of their candidates for each constituency, and voters vote for any of these lists. Each party wins seats in a particular constituency in proportion to the votes it garners. This means if a party gets enough votes for five seats, the first five candidates on their list will be declared elected. This system is used in countries like Belgium, Sweden, Italy, Portugal, and several others.
Q. Explain the Cumulative Vote System. Where is this method in use?
Answer: The Cumulative Vote System allows a voter as many votes as there are candidates to be elected. The voter may distribute these votes as they choose. This method lets minority parties secure at least one seat in the legislature by concentrating their votes in favor of one candidate. This system is in use in Illinois, one of the fifty states of the USA, where each voter has three votes that they can distribute among candidates.
Q. Describe the Single Transferable Vote System. Which countries use this system and for what types of elections?
Answer: The Single Transferable Vote System allows voters to mark all the candidates in order of preference, meaning they can express their first, second, third choice, etc. When votes are counted, an ‘electoral quota’ is established, which is the minimum number of votes needed by a candidate to win a seat. This system was first introduced in Denmark and is currently used in Malta, Northern Ireland, and India. In India, it is used for the election of the President, Vice-President, members of the Rajya Sabha, and members of the State Legislative Council.
Q. What are the merits of proportional representation?
Answer: The merits of proportional representation include:
- Ensuring that all parties and minorities are proportionally represented in the legislature.
- It aligns with the true spirit of democracy, making Parliament a true “mirror of the nation”.
- The Single Transferable Vote System ensures that no vote is wasted, adding value to every citizen’s voting right.
Q. What are the criticisms of the proportional representation system?
Answer: The proportional representation system is criticized mainly for the following reasons:
- Complexity: The system is complex, making it difficult in practical operation.
- Weak Elector-Representative bonds: All methods of proportional representation require Multi-Member Constituencies. As a result, the relationship between the electors and the representatives is less direct and personal. Large constituencies also increase the election expenses of the candidates.
- Coalition Governments: Proportional representation often leads to coalition governments. Such governments are usually considered to lack solidarity and stability as the success of the parliamentary system depends on the existence of two or three well-organized national parties.
Q. What system did the British Government introduce under the Indian Councils Act, 1909 and why?
Answer: Under the Indian Councils Act, 1909, the British Government introduced the system of Communal Electorates (Separate Electorates) in India. The Act provided for separate representation of the Muslim community at the Centre as well as in Provincial Legislatures. This system was extended to other communities, such as the Sikhs, the Anglo-Indians, Europeans, and the Indian Christians through the Government of India Act, 1919. The intention behind this system was to implement the policy of “divide and rule” by setting community against community, making the growth of a healthy political system impossible.
Q. Why was the system of separate electorates rejected in the Constitution of India?
Answer: The system of separate electorates was rejected in the Constitution of India because it promoted divisiveness among different communities, impeding the growth of a healthy political system. The framers of the Constitution believed in a more inclusive political structure, leading them to abolish the system of Communal Representation.
Q. How does the Constitution of India provide representation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes?
Answer: The Constitution of India abolished Communal Representation, but it reserves seats for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha and in the State Assemblies. In a reserved constituency, a person belonging to the Scheduled Castes or the Scheduled Tribes can contest an election, with all voters in the constituency electing their representative, whether it’s a General Constituency or a Reserved one. As of now, 84 seats in the Lok Sabha are reserved for the Scheduled Castes and 47 for the Scheduled Tribes.
Q. Describe the reservation for women in Indian politics.
Answer: Seats are reserved for women in all Panchayati Raj bodies and municipal institutions. At least one-third of the total number of seats are mandated to be reserved for women. There is a possibility that this representation could soon be increased to 50 percent of the total number of seats. However, despite discussions about a quota for women in the Lok Sabha, the Women’s Reservation Bill has not yet been passed into law.
Q. Who has the right to vote in India according to the Constitution?
Answer: The Constitution of India grants voting rights to every person who is a citizen of India and is not otherwise disqualified under any law. The principle of Universal Adult Franchise is followed, implying that “neither sex, nor property, neither race, nor religion, should prevent the citizen, from exercising the right to vote.” The voting age was reduced from 21 to 18 years in 1989 through the Constitution Sixty-first Amendment Act.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria to contest an election in India?
Answer: To contest an election in India, a citizen needs to be a voter and at least 25 years old for the Lok Sabha or State Assembly elections, and not less than 30 years of age for the Rajya Sabha or State Legislative Council elections. A candidate may be disqualified from membership for: 1) holding an office of profit, 2) unsoundness of mind, or 3) being otherwise disqualified under any law.
Q. Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and the other Commissioners?
Answer: The Chief Election Commissioner and the other Commissioners are appointed by the President. The President may appoint the Regional Commissioners to assist the Election Commission in its functions.
Q. What are the term of office and conditions of service for the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners?
Answer: The Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner shall hold office for a term of six years, however, if they have attained the age of 65 years, they shall vacate office on the date on which they attain this age. Their salary is equal to that of a Judge of the Supreme Court. If they differ in opinion on any matter, such matter shall be decided according to the opinion of the majority.
Q. What was the reason for the disqualification of Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan from the Rajya Sabha on 17 March, 2006?
Answer: On 17 March, 2006, the President, accepting the Election Commission’s recommendation, disqualified Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan from the Rajya Sabha on the ground that she was holding an office of profit. Mrs. Jaya Bachchan was at that time the Chairperson of the Uttar Pradesh Film Development Council (UPFDC).
Q. What functions does the Election Commission perform related to electoral rolls and photo identity cards?
Answer: The Constitution mandates that there shall be one ‘General Electoral Roll’ for every territorial constituency, and for free and fair elections, the voters are required to bring their Photo Identity Cards or some other document allowed by the Election Commission. It is the responsibility of the Election Commission to prepare these electoral rolls and photo identity cards.
Q. How does the Election Commission handle the recognition of political parties and allotment of symbols to parties and independent candidates?
Answer: The Election Commission grants recognition to political parties for election purposes. For symbol allotment, national and state level parties can have a reserved symbol for all the candidates nominated by them. Independent candidates can select any symbol from a list of free symbols provided by the Election Commission.
Q. Describe the process of delimitation of constituencies as per the Constitution and the role of the Election Commission in it.
Answer: The Constitution of India mandates that after each Census, the allocation of seats in the Lok Sabha to States and Union Territories must be readjusted. This process is known as delimitation of constituencies, and the Election Commission has the responsibility to carry it out.
Q. What are the key tasks involved in the conduct of elections by the Election Commission?
Answer: The Election Commission conducts all elections to Parliament and the State Legislatures, as well as supervises and directs elections to the offices of the President and Vice-President. This includes announcing the last date for the nomination of candidates, fixing the date for the scrutiny of nomination papers and the last date for withdrawals, making arrangements for setting up polling booths, and fixing the dates for counting of votes and declaration of results.
Q. What measures does the Election Commission take to ensure free and fair elections?
Answer: To ensure free and fair elections, the Commission sends central observers to sensitive constituencies; prescribes the code of conduct for election campaigns; and has the government issue Photo Identity Cards to the voters. The code of conduct includes provisions such as no attempt should be made to arouse caste or communal feelings, and ministers shall not combine their official visits with electioneering work.
Q. How does the Election Commission settle disputes regarding disqualification on grounds such as being of unsound mind or holding an office of profit?
Answer: Any dispute regarding disqualification on grounds such as being of unsound mind or holding an office of profit has to be referred to the President of India at the central level or to the Governor at the state level. Before giving any decision, they are required to obtain the opinion of the Election Commission and shall act according to such opinion.
Q. When did the Supreme Court order the Election Commission to provide a NOTA button on the Voting Machine?
Answer: The Supreme Court ordered the Election Commission to provide a NOTA button on the Voting Machine on 27 September, 2013.
Q. What does NOTA mean and what is its purpose?
Answer: NOTA stands for ‘None of the Above.’ It gives voters the option to indicate that they do not support any of the candidates in the election. This option was incorporated into the voting machines to ensure that the voting system provides a choice to express disapproval of all the candidates standing in the election.
Q. Can you provide some context on the case where the Election Commission censured Salman Khurshid in 2012?
Answer: On 9 February, 2012, the Election Commission censured the then Union Minister Salman Khurshid for violating the model code of conduct. The violation occurred when Salman Khurshid announced that 9% of the seats would be reserved for Minorities from the overall quota of 27% for the OBCs, during his campaigning for his wife Louise, who was a Congress Candidate for the Farrukhabad seat in Uttar Pradesh. He suggested that Muslims would largely benefit from this proposed move due to their significant population.
Q. How is the independence of the Election Commission ensured by the Constitution?
Answer: The independence of the Election Commission is secured by multiple provisions in the Constitution:
- The Election Commission derives its authority directly from the Constitution. Neither the Chief Election Commissioner nor the other Commissioners receive instructions from the Government about their duties.
- The Constitution ensures the Security of Tenure of the Chief Election Commissioner. He can’t be removed from the office except in a manner similar to a Judge of the Supreme Court. Other Commissioners can’t be removed from office without the Chief Election Commissioner’s recommendation.
- The conditions of service for the Chief Election Commissioner cannot be varied to his disadvantage after his appointment.
- Their salaries and allowances are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India and can’t be varied to their disadvantage during their term.
- The President or the Governor of a State must make available to the Commission the necessary staff for the conduct of elections, and the Commission has complete control over this staff on election duty.
Q. Who was T.N. Seshan and what is his significance in the context of the Election Commission?
Answer: T.N. Seshan was an Indian Administrative Service officer of the 1955 batch from Tamil Nadu cadre who served as the 10th Chief Election Commissioner of India. His significance in the context of the Election Commission lies in the transformation he brought to the institution since the early 1990s. He empowered the Commission by exercising its vast powers effectively and assertively. His tenure marked a new era of activism for the Election Commission which resulted in significant electoral reforms in the country. His work helped the Election Commission to acquire the reputation of being impartial and powerful. It is because of leaders like him that the Election Commission is regarded as a very effective body today.
Q. What is the significance of adult suffrage as described in the Constitution of India?
Answer: Adult suffrage is an outstanding feature of the Indian Constitution. It signifies the democratic principle of ‘One Person, One Vote, One Value’. It ensures that in the process of electing representatives to Parliament and State Assemblies, every adult citizen, regardless of their social or economic status, has an equal vote. This plays a crucial role in making elections free and fair, as it gives every eligible citizen an equal say in the democratic process.
Q. Explain the role and independence of the Election Commission in ensuring free and fair elections.
Answer: The Election Commission plays an instrumental role in managing elections, and its independence is secured by the Constitution of India. As per the Constitution, the Chief Election Commissioner cannot be removed from office except in a manner similar to a judge of the Supreme Court. This constitutional provision guarantees the independence of the Election Commission, making it immune from political pressures and enabling it to perform its duty of conducting free and fair elections impartially.
Q. What corrupt practice does the Election Commission aim to prevent regarding a candidate’s election expenditure?
Answer: The Election Commission enforces a regulation that it is a corrupt practice for a candidate to spend more money than the prescribed amount on his or her election. This is to prevent undue influence and ensure an equal playing field for all candidates, irrespective of their financial capabilities.
Q. What regulations are in place to prevent ministers from misusing official visits for electioneering work, and why are they important?
Answer: The Election Commission has prescribed that Ministers shall not combine their official visit with electioneering work. Moreover, government vehicles and personnel shall not be used for boosting the interests of the party in power. This is important to maintain a clear distinction between the roles of public officials and party members, to prevent the misuse of public resources for partisan interests, and to ensure fairness in election competition.
Q. How does the Election Commission deal with issues of rigging or booth capturing?
Answer: In case of rigging or booth capturing, the Election Commission has the power to order a fresh poll. To ensure that such malpractices are detected and prevented, the Election Commission sends observers to sensitive constituencies. This helps to ensure that voting takes place in a free and fair manner, and any instances of electoral fraud are swiftly dealt with.
Q. What are the consequences of carrying arms within the vicinity of a polling booth?
Answer: Carrying any kind of arms within the vicinity of a polling booth is a cognisable offence. It is punishable with imprisonment up to two years, or a fine, or both. This measure is enforced to maintain peace and security at polling stations, ensuring that voters can cast their votes without fear or coercion.
Q. Explain the use of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and video cameras in ensuring free and fair elections.
Answer: Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and tamper-proof video cameras have been introduced to reduce poll-related crimes. EVMs are regarded as the safest election tools. They are user-friendly, allowing voters to cast their votes quickly and efficiently. An EVM has blue buttons next to candidates’ names and their symbols. When a voter presses the button, a light glows and a beep can be heard, indicating that the vote has been cast. The only way to make an EVM non-functional is by physically damaging it. The use of tamper-proof video cameras ensures transparency in the polling process and can provide evidence in case of disputes or allegations of fraud.
Q. How are election petitions handled, and what is the possible outcome if a returned candidate is found to have committed a corrupt practice?
Answer: Election petitions are handled by the High Courts. If a returned candidate is found to have committed any corrupt practice, the High Court has the power to declare the election to be void. This serves as a check and balance in the electoral system, deterring candidates from engaging in corrupt practices and ensuring that the will of the people as expressed through the elections is respected.
Q. What is the concept of Proportional Representation and why has it been criticised?
Answer: The concept of Proportional Representation is a system which ensures that all parties are proportionately represented in the House, reflecting the distribution of public support. However, it has been criticised mainly on two grounds. Firstly, its complexity makes it difficult in practical operation, creating barriers to understanding and implementation. Secondly, this system may lead to the formation of coalition governments as no single party may attain a majority, which can lead to instability and conflict in policy-making.
Q. What suggestions have been made to curb the role of money power in elections?
Answer: There have been several suggestions to reduce the influence of money power in elections, including:
- Regular audit of party funds to ensure transparency and legality of financial dealings.
- Parties should submit an account of donations received from private companies to maintain a record of contributions and prevent undue influence.
- The introduction of State funding of elections to equalize the financial playing field and decrease dependency on private funds. This is a practice already followed in at least 22 countries.
Q. What measures have been proposed to address muscle power and criminality in electoral politics?
Answer: In order to tackle the issue of muscle power and criminality in electoral politics, the Supreme Court has directed that candidates must declare the details of cases registered up to six months before filing nominations. This pertains to cases that could attract a jail term of two or more years. Additionally, it has been suggested that persons with proven criminal records, history-sheeters, and those detained under the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act and Prevention of Smuggling Act, etc. should be debarred from contesting elections. This is aimed at maintaining the integrity of the political system and ensuring that individuals with a record of criminality do not hold office.
Q. What are Dr. Ambedkar’s views on caste politics and how should it be addressed in elections?
Answer: Dr. Ambedkar viewed caste as a significant hindrance to political and economic reform. He referred to caste as a “monster” that obstructs progress. According to him, the path to political and economic reform is blocked by the monster of caste. To address this, he recommended a strict ban on arousing “caste feelings” at election rallies. By preventing the incitement of caste sentiments during political campaigns, it is aimed at ensuring that electoral decisions are not based on caste but on more pertinent issues like policies, development plans, and leadership abilities.
Q. What is the proposed measure for enhancing women’s representation in the Parliament and assembly seats?
Answer: The proposed measure for enhancing women’s representation is through the reservation of seats. It has been suggested that one-third of parliamentary and assembly seats should be reserved for women. This measure is aimed at empowering women by ensuring their active participation in the political arena and addressing the gender imbalance in legislative bodies.
52. How should the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners be done according to the proposed reforms?
Answer: The proposed reform suggests that the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners should be appointed by the President in consultation with several key political and judicial figures. These figures include the Prime Minister, the Chief Justice of India, the Speaker of Lok Sabha, the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and the Leader of the Opposition or the leader of the largest Group in the Lok Sabha. This process is aimed at ensuring a fair, bipartisan appointment process that takes into account the views of different stakeholders in the democratic system.
Additional/extra MCQs
1. What is the term for a system of government where people elect their rulers by voting?
A. Autocracy B. Monarchy C. Democracy D. Oligarchy
Answer: C. Democracy
2. In a representative democracy, who makes laws and supervises the functioning of the executive?
A. Judiciary B. Bureaucrats C. Elected Representatives D. Citizens directly
Answer: C. Elected Representatives
3. What is the electoral system commonly referred to as the simple majority system?
A. Proportional Representation B. Single Transferable Vote C. First Past the Post D. Ranked Choice Voting
Answer: C. First Past the Post
4. In the First Past the Post system, who is declared the winner?
A. The candidate with the absolute majority votes B. The candidate with the most votes C. The candidate chosen by the previous winner D. The candidate with the least votes
Answer: B. The candidate with the most votes
5. Which country is known for using the First Past the Post system and has single member constituencies?
A. Australia B. India C. Germany D. France
Answer: B. India
Q. What is one criticism of the First Past the Post system?
A. It’s too complicated B. It favors the rich C. It may not represent the majority of the voters D. It discourages voting
Answer: C. It may not represent the majority of the voters
Q. What is one advantage of the First Past the Post system?
A. It guarantees minority representation B. It promotes multi-party system C. It’s simple to understand D. It ensures fair elections
Answer: C. It’s simple to understand
Q. Which of the following is a potential result of the First Past the Post system?
A. A three-party system B. Equal representation for all parties C. A single party gaining majority in the House D. Frequent changes in government
Answer: C. A single party gaining majority in the House
Q. Which country traditionally had a two-party system, but seems to be losing it in recent years?
A. United States B. India C. Australia D. Britain
Answer: D. Britain
Q. Which of the following is not a merit of the First Past the Post system?
A. Simplicity B. Promotes political stability C. Leads to two-party system D. Guarantees representation for minorities
Answer: D. Guarantees representation for minorities
Q. Who emerged as the victor in the 2016 United States Presidential Election?
A. Hillary Clinton B. Barack Obama C. Joe Biden D. Donald J. Trump
Answer: D. Donald J. Trump
Q. What was the campaign slogan of Donald J. Trump in the 2016 United States Presidential Election?
A. Change We Can Believe In B. A Future to Believe In C. To Make Great America Again D. America First
Answer: C. To Make Great America Again
Q. Which animal is the symbol for the Democratic Party in the United States?
A. Eagle B. Lion C. Donkey D. Elephant
Answer: C. Donkey
Q. Which animal is the symbol for the Republican Party in the United States?
A. Eagle B. Lion C. Donkey D. Elephant
Answer: D. Elephant
Q. In the First, Second, and Third General Elections in India, which party emerged with a majority in the Lok Sabha?
A. BJP B. AIADMK C. CPI D. Congress
Answer: D. Congress
Q. Who was the leader of the Congress Party during the 1984 Lok Sabha elections?
A. Indira Gandhi B. Shri Rajiv Gandhi C. Rahul Gandhi D. Sonia Gandhi
Answer: B. Shri Rajiv Gandhi
Q. What percentage of the total votes did the Congress Party obtain in the 1984 Lok Sabha elections?
A. 70% B. 58% C. 48% D. 31%
Answer: C. 48%
Q. How many Lok Sabha seats did the BJP win in the 2014 Elections?
A. 2 B. 44 C. 37 D. 282
Answer: D. 282
Q. How many Lok Sabha seats did the Congress Party win in the 2014 Elections?
A. 2 B. 44 C. 37 D. 282
Answer: B. 44
Q. How many Lok Sabha seats did the AIADMK win in the 2014 Elections?
A. 2 B. 44 C. 37 D. 282
Answer: C. 37
Q. Which country introduced the Single Transferable Vote System for the first time?
A. Malta B. India C. Denmark D. Northern Ireland
Answer: C. Denmark
Q. How many members are elected from each electoral district in Illinois?
A. One B. Two C. Three D. Four
Answer: C. Three
Q. What is the ‘electoral quota’ in the context of the Single Transferable Vote System?
A. Number of constituencies B. Total number of votes C. Number of candidates D. Minimum votes needed to win
Answer: D. Minimum votes needed to win
Q. What is the name of Israel’s Parliament?
A. Duma B. Knesset C. Seimas D. Folketing
Answer: B. Knesset
Q. Under which voting system are the entire country treated as a single constituency?
A. List System B. Cumulative Vote System C. Single Transferable Vote System D. None of the above
Answer: D. None of the above
Q. In which country is the List System used where the entire country is divided into several separate constituencies?
A. Israel B. Netherlands C. Belgium D. Sweden
Answer: C. Belgium
Q. For which of the following positions in India is the Single Transferable Vote System used?
A. Prime Minister B. Vice-President C. Chief Justice D. Speaker of Lok Sabha
Answer: B. Vice-President
Q. In which US state is the Cumulative Vote System in use?
A. California B. Texas C. Illinois D. New York
Answer: C. Illinois
Q. In the proportional representation system, who gets the number of seats in proportion to the votes cast?
A. Individual candidates B. Political parties C. Local councils D. Independent candidates
Answer: B. Political parties
Q. What is the result of the Proportional Representation system in terms of government formation?
A. Single-party government B. Bicameral government C. Coalition government D. Federal government
Answer: C. Coalition government
Q. What system of representation was introduced by the British Government under the Indian Councils Act, 1909?
A. Universal Electorates B. Communal Electorates C. Provincial Electorates D. Combined Electorates
Answer: B. Communal Electorates
Q. Which Act extended separate representation to communities like Sikhs, Anglo-Indians, Europeans, and Indian Christians?
A. Indian Councils Act, 1909 B. Government of India Act, 1920 C. Government of India Act, 1919 D. Indian Independence Act, 1947
Answer: C. Government of India Act, 1919
Q. How many seats are reserved for the Scheduled Castes in the Lok Sabha?
A. 47 B. 84 C. 50 D. 33
Answer: B. 84
Q. How many seats are reserved for the Scheduled Tribes in the Lok Sabha?
A. 84 B. 47 C. 33 D. 50
Answer: B. 47
Q. What is the minimum age to contest in the Lok Sabha or State Assembly elections?
A. 18 B. 21 C. 25 D. 30
Answer: C. 25
Q. What is the minimum age to contest in the Rajya Sabha or State Legislative Council elections as per the information provided?
A. 25 B. 18 C. 30 D. 21
Answer: C. 30
Q. In which year was the voting age reduced from 21 to 18 years as per the Constitution Sixty-first Amendment Act?
A. 1989 B. 1990 C. 1976 D. 1950
Answer: A. 1989
Q. Which bodies have a reservation of at least one-third of the total seats for women?
A. Lok Sabha B. Rajya Sabha C. Panchayati Raj bodies and municipal institutions D. State Assemblies
Answer: C. Panchayati Raj bodies and municipal institutions
Q. What could the women’s representation in Panchayati Raj bodies and municipal institutions soon be increased to?
A. 25% B. 50% C. 33% D. 75%
Answer: B. 50%
Q. Who appoints the Chief Election Commissioner and the other Election Commissioners in India? A. Prime Minister B. Lok Sabha C. President D. Supreme Court
Answer: C. President
Q. What is the term of office for the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner? A. Four years B. Five years C. Six years D. Seven years
Answer: C. Six years
Q. What is the age at which the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner has to vacate office? A. 60 years B. 62 years C. 65 years D. 70 years
Answer: C. 65 years
Q. On what basis is the salary of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners determined? A. President’s salary B. Salary of a Judge of the High Court C. Salary of a Judge of the Supreme Court D. Salary of a Cabinet Minister
Answer: C. Salary of a Judge of the Supreme Court
Q. Why was Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan disqualified from the Rajya Sabha in 2006? A. Corruption charges B. Criminal activities C. Holding an office of profit D. Unsound mind
Answer: C. Holding an office of profit
Q. Who prepares the ‘General Electoral Roll’ for every territorial constituency? A. Government B. President C. Election Commission D. Census Department
Answer: C. Election Commission
Q. Who grants recognition to political parties for election purposes in India? A. Government B. Lok Sabha C. Election Commission D. Judiciary
Answer: C. Election Commission
Q. Who is responsible for the delimitation of constituencies? A. Census Department B. President C. Election Commission D. State Governments
Answer: C. Election Commission
Q. Who prescribes the code of conduct for election campaigns? A. Political Parties B. Election Commission C. Judiciary D. President
Answer: B. Election Commission
Q. In the case of a dispute regarding disqualification on grounds such as being of unsound mind or holding an office of profit, whose opinion is sought before the President or the Governor makes a decision? A. Judiciary B. Lok Sabha C. Election Commission D. Cabinet
Answer: C. Election Commission
Q. When did the Supreme Court order the Election Commission to include a NOTA button on the Voting Machine?
A. 2011 B. 2012 C. 2013 D. 2014
Answer: C. 2013
Q. What does NOTA stand for in the context of Indian elections?
A. Not of The Above B. None of The Above C. Not on The Agenda D. Nomination of The Above
Answer: B. None of The Above
Q. Who was censured by the Election Commission on 9 February, 2012 for violating the model code of conduct?
A. Salman Rushdie B. Salman Khurshid C. Louise Khurshid D. Rahul Gandhi
Answer: B. Salman Khurshid
Q. For whom was Salman Khurshid campaigning when he made the controversial announcement about seat reservations?
A. Himself B. His brother C. His wife D. His son
Answer: C. His wife
Q. Which election seat was Salman Khurshid’s wife contesting when he made the controversial speech in 2012?
A. Farrukhabad B. Kannauj C. Amethi D. Rae Bareli
Answer: A. Farrukhabad
Q. According to the Indian Constitution, who has the power to remove the Chief Election Commissioner from office?
A. The President B. The Prime Minister C. The Supreme Court D. None of the above
Answer: D. None of the above
Q. From where are the salaries and allowances of the Election Commissioners charged?
A. State Treasury B. Central Treasury C. Consolidated Fund of India D. Reserve Bank of India
Answer: C. Consolidated Fund of India
Q. Who must make the necessary staff available to the Election Commission for the conduct of elections?
A. The Chief Election Commissioner B. The Prime Minister C. The President or the Governor of a State D. The Supreme Court
Answer: C. The President or the Governor of a State
Q. Who is regarded as the individual who first made the Election Commission a very effective body?
A. Narendra Modi B. T.N. Seshan C. Manmohan Singh D. Pranab Mukherjee
Answer: B. T.N. Seshan
Q. In what decade did the Election Commission become a very effective body?
A. 1980s B. 1990s C. 2000s D. 2010s
Answer: B. 1990s
Q. What principle does adult suffrage in the Indian Constitution signify?
A. One Person, One Vote, One Value B. Majority Rule C. Proportional Representation D. Minority Rights
Answer: A. One Person, One Vote, One Value
Q. Who is responsible for managing elections in India?
A. The President B. The Prime Minister C. The Election Commission D. The Judiciary
Answer: C. The Election Commission
Q. On what grounds can the Chief Election Commissioner be removed from office?
A. On political grounds B. In a manner similar to a judge of the Supreme Court C. At the discretion of the President D. Due to loss of confidence
Answer: B. In a manner similar to a judge of the Supreme Court
Q. What is considered a corrupt practice in relation to a candidate’s election expenditure?
A. Spending less than the prescribed amount B. Spending exactly the prescribed amount C. Spending more than the prescribed amount D. Not spending any amount
Answer: C. Spending more than the prescribed amount
Q. What is prohibited for Ministers in relation to their official visits during election time?
A. Making official visits B. Combining official visits with electioneering work C. Making speeches D. Meeting constituents
Answer: B. Combining official visits with electioneering work
Q. What does the Election Commission do in case of rigging or booth capturing?
A. Imposes fines B. Sends observers C. Orders a fresh poll D. Nullifies the election
Answer: C. Orders a fresh poll
Q. What is the punishment for carrying arms within the vicinity of a polling booth?
A. No punishment B. A warning C. Fine or imprisonment up to two years D. Lifetime imprisonment
Answer: C. Fine or imprisonment up to two years
Q. What election tool is described as the safest?
A. Paper ballots B. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) C. Mobile voting D. Postal ballots
Answer: B. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
Q. What is the indication of a vote being cast on an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM)?
A. A beep can be heard B. A red light glows C. The machine shuts down D. A printout is issued
Answer: A. A beep can be heard
Q. What can the High Court do if a returned candidate is found to have committed a corrupt practice?
A. Issue a warning B. Impose a fine C. Declare the election void D. Disqualify the candidate for future elections
Answer: C. Declare the election void
Q. What is one of the primary criticisms of the Proportional Representation system?
A. Lack of representation B. Complexity C. High cost D. Instability
Answer: B. Complexity
Q. What is one of the possible consequences of Proportional Representation system?
A. Autocratic governments B. Minority governments C. Coalition governments D. Single-party dominance
Answer: C. Coalition governments
Q. What is one of the measures suggested to curb the influence of money power in elections?
A. Banning advertisements B. Regular audit of party funds C. Encouraging independent candidates D. Reducing campaign period
Answer: B. Regular audit of party funds
Q. Which is one of the documents parties are suggested to submit to reduce money power in elections?
A. Annual reports B. Account of private company donations C. Monthly expenditure reports D. List of volunteers
Answer: B. Account of private company donations
Q. Which Act is specifically mentioned to debar people from contesting elections?
A. Penal Code B. Foreign Exchange Regulation Act C. Prevention of Terrorism Act D. Anti-Defection Act
Answer: B. Foreign Exchange Regulation Act
Q. What is Dr. Ambedkar’s view on caste in politics?
A. Essential component B. A monster C. Unavoidable D. None of the above
Answer: B. A monster
Q. What percentage of parliamentary and assembly seats should be reserved for women according to the suggested reforms?
A. 25% B. 33% C. 50% D. 75%
Answer: B. 33%
Q. Who should appoint the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners according to the suggested reforms?
A. Prime Minister B. Chief Justice of India C. President D. Parliament
Answer: C. President
Q. Who should the President consult for the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners?
A. Governor of States B. Cabinet Ministers C. Leader of the Opposition D. All Members of Parliament
Answer: C. Leader of the Opposition
72. What is the proposed role of the State in election funding?
A. No role B. Limited role C. Full funding D. Subsidized funding
Answer: C. Full funding
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