📘 Class 11 Political Science – Important Questions with Answers (All Chapters)
📘 Class 11 Political Science – Important Questions with Answers (All Chapters)
Constitution: Why and How? Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 1
Constitution: Why and How? Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 1
Constitution: Why and How? Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 1
Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 1 Constitution: Why and How?. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.
Constitution: Why and How? Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type
Question 1.
What is society?
Answer:
Society is a group of people of the same race, socio, economic background, and cherishes common aspirations. Due to social instinct when they come together and their relationship gets institutionalized, it constitutes a society.
Question 2.
Why certain rules are necessary for society?
Answer:
Certain rules and understandings are very necessary for observance by the members of society so that their relationship is properly maintained. These rules will help in maintaining the discipline and realizing the objectives of the society.
Question 3.
What is Constitution?
Answer:
The constitution is a body of rules and regulations, understandings, and modes of behavior on the basis of which the government is constituted and run. The constitution specifies the areas of functions between the organs of the government. It also sets the mode of .relationship between citizens and the state.
Question 4.
Why is the Constitution needed?
Answer:
As said the Constitution is the body of rules, regulations, and common understanding, it is very much needed to achieve definiteness in the relations of citizens and different organs of the government. The Constitution may be written or unwritten. Constitution also put the check on rulers.
Question 5.
What is Constitutionalism?
Answer:
Constitutionalism stands for the check on arbitrariness and whimsical behavior of the ruler and to ensure rule by rational decisions. It seeks to establish the rule of law for the welfare of the people. The constitution is the product of constitutionalism. Constitutionalism also stands for rule by rational discussion, debate, and consent.
Question 6.
What is Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
A constituent assembly is a body of renowned persons who are engaged in discussion debate and decision-making process and then drafting the Constitution. Most of the constitutions of world countries are written by the Constituent Assemblies.
Question 7.
How much time was taken by Constituent Assembly to write the Constitution?
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly to write the Indian Constitution was constituted in 1946 and it completed the work on 26th November 1949. It took two years, eleven months, and eighteen days to complete the Constitution of India.
Question 8.
What are the main functions of the Constitution?
Answer:
The Constitution is the DQ document whose main function is to demarcate the jurisdiction of organs of the government. It also suggests the composition of the government. It also sets the relationship between the state and citizens. The main function of the Constitution is to limit the powers of the government.
Question 9.
What is an unwritten constitution?
Answer:
A written Constitution is in the form of a document while an unwritten constitution is based on understandings, traditions, usages, and convention. An unwritten constitution means observance of certain accepted modes of behavior.
Question 10.
Name main countries from where institutions and features are taken for the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
It is said that the Indian Constitution is a borrowed bag because this Constitution has many foreign sources. Britain has the maximum impact on the Indian Constitution. Besides Britain, the USA, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa are the countries that have influenced the Indian constitution. It is rightly said that the Indian Constitution is a borrowed bag.
Question 11.
How the decisions were taken by Constituent Assembly?
Answer:
Taking decisions in the Constituent Assembly was not easy because of thorny issues. There were many people and groups of divergent opinions. But all the members were fired with a high sense of patriotism. Therefore all the decisions were taken by consensus which could be possible by the spirit of accommodation. ,
Question 12.
What is the Preamble of the Constitution?
Answer:
A preamble is the introductory part of the Constitution which gives the idea of forms of government, values, philosophy, and commitment of the Constitution. Preamble helps in the interpretation of the Constitution.
Question 13.
What was the significance of the Cabinet Mission Plan?
Answer:
Cabinet Mission Plan was appointed by the British Government in 1946 to discuss the modalities of the Constituent Assembly with the Indian leaders. With the discussion by Indian leaders, the Cabinet Mission plan gave its recommendations on the basis of which the Constituent Assembly was constituted.
Question 14.
From where the Constitution drew its authority?
Answer:
The Constitution drew its authority from the Constituent Assembly which was representative of the people. Therefore ultimately the people are /the source of the authority of the Constitution. In Preamble the stating words are We the people of India, which means to say that people support this Constitution.
Question 15.
How India is Republic?
Answer:
India is Republic. It is very much given in the Preamble of the Constitution. India has an elected head in the form of a President. Therefore India is Republic.
Constitution: Why and How? Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type
Question 1.
What do you mean by Constitution? How it performs its role for society?
Answer:
A Constitution is fundamental law of the land. It can be defined as the body of rules, regulations, and understandings on the basis of which state is’ constituted and governed. The Constitution is also the instrument of realizing the aspirations of the people. It plays a vital role for society as it specifies the basic allocations of power in society. The Constitution of a country indicates the framework of the government with the respective role of each organ of the government. The Constitution influences society and in turn is influenced by society. Indian Constitution represents the ethos, values, and preferences of Indian people and at the same time has successfully given the direction to Indian society to become a liberal, secular, democratic, and modern society. The constitution plays this role in all societies. We can take the example Of Chinese and Russian Constitutions also.
Question 2.
Discuss the importance of a written constitution.
Answer:
The constitution explains the structure of government and the mode of governance. Generally, the constitution is to be taken as a written one but it does not mean that there cannot be an unwritten constitution. British Consti¬tution is the example of the unwritten constitution which is working on the basis of unwritten understandings, traditions, and conventions. But in most of the countries of the world, there are written constitutions which are in the form of a document written by a specially constructed Constituent Assembly. The written constitution has its own utility and importance. The written part of the constitution is a clear indicator of the jurisdiction or powers of a particular organ. There cannot be any ambiguity in a written constitution if it is, it can be explained. A written constitution is generally available in the form of a document that is prepared by continuous discussions and debate and with due process of decision making. It may be the majority method or it can be based on consensus. Therefore a written constitution is more popular.
Question 3.
Write the composition of the Constituent Assembly of India.
Answer:
Indian Constitution is written by a specially constituted Constituent Assembly. This Constituted Assembly had a total strength of 389 members, whose composition was as follows:
292 members from British ruled states
93 members from Princely states
4 members of minorities like Sikh and Anglo Indians
The elected members were to be indirectly elected by the state Assemblies which were constituted by the election of 1946 to the states on the basis of the Government of India Act 1935. Therefore this Constituent Assembly was constituted by indirect elections and nomination. It was constituted as per recommendations of the Cabinet Mission Plan 1946 which came to India after the formation of a new government led by Mr. Atlee in Britain. The Constituent Assembly enacted this Constitution on 26 November 1949 by taking the time of two years, eleven months, and eighteen days. The idea of a Constituent Assembly had come to prevail largely as an article of faith in almost all the politically minded classes in the country.
Question 4.
Write important features of the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
The main features of the Indian Constitution are as under:-
Written Constitution
Flexible and rigid Constitution
The preamble of the Constitution
Liberal Constitution.
Parliamentary form of government
Federal system of government
Republican system
Fundamental Rights
fundamental Duties
Directive Principles of State Policy
Secularism
Bicameral Legislature of center
Adult Franchise
Multi-Party System
Power of Judicial Review to the Judiciary
Mixed economy
Single citizenship
Supremacy of Constitution
Question 5.
How the powers are demarcated in Indian Constitution?
Answer:
The important base of the effectiveness of a constitution is a balanced arrangement of the distributions of power and allocation of areas of work (jurisdiction) among the institutions and organs of the government. The basic principle on which the constitution worked was that the government must be democratic and committed to the welfare of the people. The constitution-makers, for the purpose of evolving the right balance among the various institutions like the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary, adopted parliamentary form government and federal-arrangement between the center and states. This will lead to the distributions of power between the legislature and executive on the one hand and between the central government and the state governments. For this purpose the powers were distributed on the basis of three lists as under :
Union list 96 subjects
State list 66 subjects
Concurrent list 47 subjects. The residual powers rest with the center
Question 6.
Write four important functions of the Constitution.
Answer:
As the constitution is a framework of Government and embodiment of ethos, values, goals, and commitments of the people, it performs a number of functions for the society and the rulers i.e. government. Its main functions are as under:
1. The first function of a constitution is to provide a set of basic rules that allow for minimum co-ordination and assurance amongst members of society. Constitutions provide authority to the government for framing rules, regulations, and their issuance and implementation for the purposes of main co-ordination among the people of the people and to establish discipline.
2. the Second function is to provide the framework of government and decide the area of jurisdictions of each organ of the government to make the decisions, about the people. It also decides, how the government will be constituted.
3. The third function of a constitution is to set some limits on what a government can impose on its citizens. These limits are not to be violated by the organs of the government and the people. Citizens are given four Fun-damental Rights that cannot be violated by the government. So these fundamental rights are given protections.
4. The fourth important function of the constitution is to ensure the fulfillment of the aspiration of the people and the governmental system.
Question 7.
How far you agree that the Indian Constituent Assembly was a representative body?
Answer:
Although members of the Constituent Assembly were not directly elected by the people there was a serious effort and intention to make the Assembly a representative body. In fact, at that time adult franchise’ was not prevailing, and also the situation k that time was conducive to hold the elections directly. Therefore it was decided that members of the Constituent Assembly be elected by the members of legislative Assefnblies of the states. Besides this through the process of nomination efforts were made to give representation to all shades and opinions. In the election also members of all religions were given due representation.
In terms of Political parties, the Congress party which dominated -the’- political scene at that time, also dominated the composition of the Constituent Assembly. The Congress itself was such a party that managed to accommodate almost all sections of the society. Therefore we can conclude that CoristituenK Assembly was a representative body.
Question 8.
How Parliament is subordinate to that of the Constitution in India?
Answer:
In India, Parliament is certainly subordinate to the Constitution because Parliament is the product of the Constitution which has set the composition and jurisdiction of the Parliament. In India, we have the supremacy of the Constitution and not of Parliament. Parliament will discharge its duty on the areas, assigned by the Constitution. Parliament can make laws on the issues which are given in the centralized and some times on the issues of stateliest also. But its laws are open for judicial review. Therefore we can say that in India, Parliament is subordinate to Constitution which can be altered only by the Constituent Assembly.
Question 9.
What goals are set in the Indian Constitution?
Answer:
Indian society inherited inequality, discrimination, illiteracy, and injustices as a legacy of British imperialism. After independence, the people of India had high hopes. Constitution makers were aware’ of these needs and aspirations of the people. Therefore new goals for the society were set to be realized through the governmental machinery. These objectives were incorporated in the Preamble of the Constitution. The framers of the Indian constitution thought that each individual in the society should have all that which is necessary for them to lead a life of minimum dignity and social self-respect and also minimum material well-being. Therefore to achieve egalitarianism is the first goal of the Constitution. To achieve these goals, related values like justice equality, liberty, the dignity of the individual, fraternity among the people of the country are incorporated. National integrations are also the goal of the Constituent.
Question 10.
On which philosophy our Constitutions is based?
Answer:
The preamble of the Indian Constitution explains the philosophic basis. It is based on socialist, secular, and democracy: Constitution seeks to build the society on the socialistic pattern which means the availability of minimum needs of everyone and the removal of disparity among people. Socialism means each according to his ability and to each according to, his needs. This philosophy of socialism seeks to build an egalitarian society. Another philo¬sophic base is secularism which means freedom to citizens in matter or religion. It stands for no state religion because religion is a personal matter of man.
Another philosophy that seeks to achieve is democracy i.e. full participation of the people on the matter of administration and decision-making process.
Question 11.
How our constitution is an instrument of socio-economic change?
Answer:
Keeping in view the socio-economic fabric of society which we inherited from the British Raj over Constitution makers set the objectives of the Constitution is the Preamble of the constitution and chapters like of Fun¬damental Right and Directive Principles of State Policy were added in the Constitution.
On close observation and study of the performance of the working of the Constitution, we find that there is a vast change in the socio-economic scenario. Liberal and democratic cultures seem to be pervasive. The literary percentage is increased many folds. There is an appreciable improvement in health, housing, and drinking water. quality of life is improved. Social evils like untouchability and sense of high and low status are diminishing. Per Capita income has increased and employment opportunities are also increased. Democracy is mattering. It is definitely because of the triple mentality constitutional provisions.
Question 12.
How the Constitution make the people one collective entity?
Answer:
In fact, a constitution expresses the fundamental identity of people, and people as a collective entity comes into being only through the basic constitutions. It’ is by agreeing to a basic set of norms about how one should be governed and who should be governed that one forms a collective identity. One has many sets of identities on the basis of race, caste, color, language, and the area which exists prior to the constitution, but by agreeing to certain basic norms and principles, one assumes one’s basic political identity. Secondly, values and norms set in the constitution provide a framework within which one pursues individual aspirations, goals, and freedom.
Therefore constitution provides social, political, and also ethical identity to the people. It is therefore through the constitution people get collective identities. institutions like the Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary. It means that all above institutions will draw their authority and Jurisdiction from the constitution. They will discharge their powers as had been given and allowed by the constitution. The Judiciary will have the final word on the interpretation of the constitution. But Judiciary will also work as per provisions of the constitution. No one is above the constitution. Parliament will make law as per area and subjects allowed by the constitution. The basic structure of the constitution cannot be changed by Parliament. However, it can be changed by Constituent Assembly only. The supremacy of the constitution means that no person or authority or institution is above the constitution.
Question 14.
What features we have borrowed from the USA and Britain for our constitution.
Answer:
As said the Indian Constitution is a borrowed bag because our constitution is indebted to many countries from we have a number of features. From the USA we have borrowed the following features:
Written Constitution
The preamble of the Constitution
Fundamental Rights
The post of Vice-President
Power of Judicial review for our Judiciary.
Britain: From Britain, we have borrowed the following features:
Single citizenship
Bureaucracy
The parliamentary system of Government
Rule of law
Integrated judiciary
Bicameral legislative
Question 15.
How we can ensure the success of a Constitution?
Answer:
For the success and faithful obedience of the constitution, there should be some kind of internal mechanisms that no group of the society or no organ of the government become so powerful who could think of subverting the Constitution.
For example, American Constitution has such a mechanism as American Constitution is based on the theory of separation of power with a check and balance system which ensures that no organ will become arrogant and monopolistic in its jurisdiction because there is another organ to check it. Indian Consti¬tution also has fragmented the powers across different institutions like the legislature, executive, judiciary, and even some other constitutional indepen¬dent bodies like the Election commission. Secondly, to obtain the regular support of the people, the constitution must strike the right balance between certain values, norms, and procedures as authoritative and at the same time allow enough flexibility in its operation to adopt the changing needs and circum¬stances.
Question 16.
Write some features of the Cabinet Mission Plan?
Answer:
The Constituent Assembly which framed the Indian Constitution was constituted on the basis of the cabinet mission plan’s recommendations. Its main recommendations are as under:
Each province and princely state Were allowed seats proportional to their respective population roughly in the ratio of 1: 10,00,000. Which divided 292 members from British states and 93 seats from the Princely states.
Seats in each province were distributed among the three main com¬munities i.e. Muslims, Sikhs, and general.
Members of each community in the Provincial Legislative Assembly
elected their own representatives.
The method of selection was to be determined by consultation.
Constitution: Why and How? Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type
Question 1.
Giving a brief history of the demand of the Constituent Assembly, explain the theoretical and constitutional framework of the Indian Constitution.
Answer:
During the national movement, there has been a persistent demand for the composition of a Constituent Assembly. Such demand was first of all raised in Nehru Report in 1928.’vWhen after, Second World War, the British government put the demand for co-operation in the war through August offer 1940, Cripp’s Mission 1942 and Wavel Plan 1945.
Every time Congress raised the demand of setting up of a Constituent Assembly. Which was ultimately accepted through the cabinet Mission Plan 1946. Gandhi had aired the demand of the Constituent Assembly several times in strong words. This was referred by Dr. Rajendra Prashad as the first Chairman of Constituent Assembly on 9th December 1946 as that Swaraj would mean wishes of the people as expressed through their freely chosen representative. The idea of a Constitu¬ent Assembly had come to prevail largely as an article of faith in almost all the politically minded classes in the country.
The Constituent Assembly was constituted by indirect election. An attempt was made to make this body representative of the body. It took the decisions by accommodation and consensus. It took two years, eleven months and eighteen days to complete this Constitution on 26th November 1949 and which was adopted on 26th January 1950, which we celebrate as Republic day because in this Constitution we are given the provisions of an elected President. Before this, there was the post of nominated Governor-General.
The preamble of the Constitution is a very significant part of the Constitution. By going through the Preamble one can understand the theoretical and institutional framework. The Preamble of the Indian Constitution speaks like this: “We the people of India. Solemnly resolve to constitute India a ‘Sovereign, Secular Socialistic, Democratic, Republic, there will be Justice – Social-economic and political
Liberty – of thought and expression EQuestion equality – of status and opportunity and dignity, fraternity, and national integration will be the ultimate objectives.
The above description of the Preamble tells the nature of the state which is sovereign, the nature of society i.e socialistic and secular, and the nature of the polity which is the Democratic Republic. It is the institutional framework of the con¬stitution.
The theoretical framework is also given in the Preamble of the consti¬tution. The critical framework includes all those values, commitments philosophy, and goals. The Constitution seeks to establish an equalized society by removing the glaring inequalities prevailing in the society to achieve the value of justice. Seemed important value is the liberty of thought and expression. The institution seeks liberty for every citizen so that he or she may feel confident and independent and sense responsibility and sense of belonging guess. Another value is equality of status and opportunity which is needed for the dignity of man.
To achieve national integration and human dignity is the ultimate aim of the Constitution.
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 2
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 2
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 2
Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 2 Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type
Question 1.
What is Fundamental Right?
Answer:
Fundamental Rights are those rights, claims, and facilities that have been considered very essential for the development of the citizens by the state and have been ensured by the constitution-making them justiciable.
Question 2.
Why Fundamental Rights are necessary?
Answer:
Fundamental Rights are necessary for the all-around development of the citizens. They are also necessary for the success of democracy. Fundamental Rights put a check in the rules. Fundamental Rights are fundamental in governance.
Question 3.
What is Legal Right?
Answer:
Legal rights are those claims, demands, and facilities which have been allowed and protected by the ordinary Law of the Legislature and which varies from time to time.
Question 4.
What are equality before the law and equal protection of Law?
Answer:
Equality before the law means that every person irrespective of his caste, race, color, and status will be considered equal before Law. Equal protection of Law means that Law will be enforced uniformly.
Question 5.
Which right removes the untouchability?
Answer:
Art-17 of Fundamental Right of Equality provides for the removal of untouchability which has been practiced for a long time in our society.
Question 6.
Write four main features of our Fundamental Rights;
Answer:
Our Fundamental Rights are not absolute. Some reasonable restrictions can be imposed upon them.
Fundamental Rights are justiciable.
Fundamental Rights can be amended and can be snatched in an emergency.
Fundamental Rights make difference between citizens and aliens.
Question 7.
Which Fundamental Rights protects these Rights?
Answer:
Fundamental Rights of Constitutional Remedies protect other rights because they enable the citizens to move to courts if any of the rights are denied or violated. It. is considered the most important right and has been considered as heart and soul of the Constitution by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar.
Question 8.
Which liberties are givens in Art 19?
Answer:
People enjoy six liberties in the Right of speech and expression given in Art-19 of the Constitution. Their liberties are as under-
Right of speech and expression, the way they like.
Right to assemble peacefully.
Right to form an association.
Right to move freely throughout the territory of India.
Reside and settle in any part of India.
Practice any profession, any occupation, trade, or business.
Question 9.
What is given in Art 16 (4)
Answer:
This article in part of the Right of Prohibition of discrimination in the matter of employment. This provides that nothing in this article shall prevent the state from making any provision for the reservation of appointment or posts in favor of the state, is not adequately represented in the services under the state.
Question 10.
What right is given in Art 21 of the constitution?
Answer:
This article provides for the protection of life and personal liberty. It says that no person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to* procedure established by Law. This means the life and liberty of a person cannot be taken arbitrarily.
Question 11.
What is Habeas corpus?
Answer:
A writ of Habeas corpus means that the court orders that the arrested person should be presented before it. It can also order to get free an arrested person if the manner or grounds of arrest are not lawful or satisfactory.
Question 12.
Why and when were Fundamental Duties added to the Constitution?
Answer:
As we know that in the original Constitution Fundamental Duties were not added to Constitution. When the emergency was imposed by the Indira Gandhi government in 1975 the need for Fundamental Duties was felt hence ten Fundamental Duties were added in the Constitution by 42nd Amendment 1976 in the IVth A part of the Constitution in 51 A article.
Question 13.
What do you mean by Directive Principles of State Policy?
Answer:
Directive Principles are the socio, economic conditions, facilities that are to be kept in mind by the central and state governments while making policies. They have been named as Directive Principles because they will be guiding principles of policies of the government of the day.
Question 14.
What is the importance of the Directive Principles of State Policies?
Answer:
These principles are the pious fishes of. the constitution-makers which they wanted to give the citizens but could not make guarantee because of the paucity of resources. Hence they left these on the will of the coming governments as per the availability of resources. The purpose of their principles is to build socio, economic democracy.
Question 15.
Write three principles
Answer:
Upliftment of weaker sections of the society.
Educational and health development of the people.
To implement Question Gandhian principles. ,
To have independent foreign policy and to promote international peace.
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type
Question 1.
From where our constitutibiMoakers took the Fundamental Rights and with what difference?
Answer:
During the freedom struggle itself, the need for Fundamental Rights was realized because of the colonial legacy of India. For the first time, this demand of Fundamental Rights was put in Nehru Report 1928. After national inde¬pendence it was natural to include and protect Fundamental Rights in the Constitution. The Constitution listed seven Fundamental Rights that would bo-protected through Judicial interference. However basic idea was borrowed from the U.S.A. which had included the Bill of Rights.
We adopted Fundamental Rights from the U.S.A. but with the following differences:
The Fundamental Rights are scattered in the Constitution of the U.S.A, while in our constitution, they are described in one chapter only from Art-13 to Art 35.
Our Fundamental Rights are not absolute while the Fundamental Rights given in the USA are absolute which means they cannot be suspended or amended.
Question 2.
Explain the Right of Equality.
Answer:
Right of Equality is the first Fundamental Right described from Art 14 to Art 18. This is the most significant right for the development of a citizen.
Art 14 – gives Equality before the law and Equal Protection of law which means no one will be discriminated before the law, on the ground of caste, color, and status, and the law will be implemented in a uniform way.
Art 15 – Prohibition of Discrimination which means no one will be discriminated at a public place, on any ground of sex, caste, color, or region.
Art 16 – Prohibition of Discrimination in a matter of Employment.
It means that no one will be discriminated in matter of employment on any ground of each, color, sex or region and all will get equal opportunities but there can be positive discrimination to uplift these people,.who have been traditionally exploited and backward.
Art 17 – It seeks to abolish untouchability.
Art 18 – Abolition of titles
With the purpose of establishing an egalitarian society, unwanted titles and privileged classes are to be abolished.
Question 3.
Explain Right against Exploitation.
Answer:
Right against Exploitation is of great significance and is explained in Art 23 and 24. Art 23 provides for prohibition of forced labor like bonded labor, beggary, and human trafficking
Art 24 – It prohibits the employment of children below the age of 14 years in hazardous jobs in hotels, machines, mines, and industries. Child labor has been made illegal. The right to Education has been made Fundamental Right for children.
Question 4.
Explain Light of Liberty
Answer:
Fundamental Right of Liberty is related to political and civic liberties. It has been described from Art 19 to Art 22.
Art 19 give
Right of expression and speech.
Right to assemble peacefully
Right to form an association.
Right to move anywhere in Indian territory.
Right to settle anywhere in India.
Right to choose any occupation, business, or trade.
Art 20. This article gives three rights.
A person can be punished for an offense only by law which was in force at the time of the commission of an offense.
No person can be punished twice for the same offense.
No person can be compelled to be a witness against himself.
Art 21- It gives life and liberty. It says that the life and liberty of a person cannot be taken except with the procedure established by law.
Art 22 – It gives rights to defenses.
No one can be arrested without telling him the reason for the arrest.
A detained person has to be produced before a first-class magistrate within 24 hours for a fair trial.
Such detained person has the right to have his defense through a lawyer.
Question 5.
Explain Right of Religions Liberty
Answer:
India is a country of people of different religions and beliefs. . Constitution makers have given all citizens the right of religious liberties. This right is described from Art 25 to Art 28
Art 25 – Gives religious liberty to every citizen i.e., to profess and practice any religion as a personal matter. The state will neither patronize any religion now discriminate against. This right establishes the secular credentials of India.
Art 26 – Liberty of managing own religious affairs and to own, acquire, and to administer properties for a charitable purpose.
Art 27 – It prohibits compulsory religious instructions in an educational institution maintained, recognized, or aided by the state.
Art 28 – It gives liberty to religious institutions to take aid from the state on an equal basis.
Question 6.
Explain the Right of Education and Culture.
Answer:
India is a multiple society with people of different caste, color, culture, races and directs, languages and geographies. To promote their aspirations and identities the Constitution makers have given this Fundamental Right of Education and Culture which has been described in the Constitution from Art 29 to Art 30.
Art 29 – It is provided in this Constitution that no minority whether based on religion, community, language shall be discriminated against and all minorities will be given full opportunities for their fuller development.
Art 30 – It is provided that to promote their culture and identities, all the minorities can open educational institutions and can get financial aid from the state on the basis of equality.
Question 7.
Explain Fundamental Right of Constitutional Remedies. Why it is called as heart and soul of the constitution by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar?
Answer:
Fundamental Right of Constitutional Remedy is given in Art 32 of the Constitution. It gives the status of justiciability to the Fundamental Rights given in the third part of the Constitution. It is rightly called the heart and soul of the constitution by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. Without this fight, other rights would have been meaningless because this right gives the right to the people to go to court if their other Fundamental Rights are violated or denied by the Executive or Legislature.
Question 8.
Explain following terms
1. Habeas Corpus
2. Mandamus
3. Prohibition
4. Certiorari
5. quo Warranty
Answer:
1. Habeas Corpus: It is the order of the court to present the arrested person before it for a fair trial. It can also order to set free such an arrested person if the manner or ground of arrest .are not lawful or satisfactory.
2. Mandamus: This writ is issued when the court finds that a particular officeholder is not doing legal duty and thereby is violating the right of an individual
3. Prohibition: This writ is issued by a higher court (High court or Supreme court) when a lower court, has considered a case beyond its jurisdiction.
4. Certiorari: In this writ court orders a lower court or another authority •to transfer a matter pending before it to a higher authority or court.
5. quo-Warranto: If the court finds that a person is holding office but is not entitled to hold that office, it issues orders of quo-Warranto to restrict that person from acting as an office holder of that office or position.
Question 9.
Describe Fundamental Duties of the Constitution.
Answer:
Ten Fundamental Duties have been added in the Vlth Part Art 51A of the Constitution by 42nd Amendment of the Constitution in 1976. In the original Constitution, there was no chapter of Fundamental duties.
Followings are Ten Fundamental duties.
To abide by the Constitution and respect the national Flag and National Anthem.
To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired the National movement,
To protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
To depend on the country.
To promote the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people.
To preserve the rich heritage of our common culture.
To protect and improve the natural environment
To develop a scientific temper and spirit of inquiry.
To safeguard public policy.
To starve towards excellence in all spheres of undivided and collective life:
Question 10.
What do you mean by Directive Principles of State Principles? What is their significance?
Answer:
Directive Principles are guidelines regarding socio-economic policies that are to be kept in mind by central governments and state governments while making various welfare policies. These Directive Principles have been described in the IVth part of the Constitution from Art 36 to Art 51 of the constitution. In a way, they are pious intentions and moral guidelines of Constitution makers. The very purpose of these directions is to establish economic democracy by improving the standard of the people. These Directive Principles are a source of inspiration for the government. However, their principles are not made justiciable which means they cannot be claimed in the court of law. They are-at the will of the government.
They are of four types which ar6 as under:
Socio-economic principles
Liberal principles
Gandhian principles
International Principles
These directive principles have changed the face of society.
Question 11.
Differentiate between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer:
The followings are the main differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy.
Fundamental Rights are justiciable while Directive Principles are not justiciable.
The purpose of Fundamental Right is to establish political democracy while the purpose of the Directive Principle of State Policy is to establish economic democracy.
The language of Fundamental Rights is legal while the language of Directive principles is not legal.
Fundamental Rights make a distinction between citizens and aliens but Directive Principles of State Policy does not make any distinction.
Fundamental Rights are guarantees while the Directive Principles of State Policy are just assurances.
Question 12.
In brief, explain the conflict between Fundamental Right and Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer:
Although Constitution makers added the chapters of Fundamental Rights and Directive principles as complementary to each other some controversy developed when land reforms were introduced, Litigations were started on the ground of violation of Fundamental Rights. The honorable court held that Parliament can amend the Fundamental Rights, but this position was reversed in the Golakhnath case in 1967 in which it was held that parliament cannot amend Fundamental Rights. To nullity the effect of the decision of the Golakhnath case, the government brought a constitutional amendment, which was again challenged in the Keshwanand case 1973.
In this case, the Supreme court held that Parliament can amend any part of the constitution including Fundamental Rights but cannot change the basic structure of the Constitution. By 42nd amendment in 1976, the Fundamental Rights were made inferior to the Directive Principles of State Policy. With the increasing welfare policies of the gov¬ernment, Directive Principles have become more important. But ultimately Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles are not against each other but are complementary to each other as the purpose of both is the welfare and devel¬opment of a citizen of India.
Question 13.
Write some measures of government as part of Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer:
Land reforms
The ceiling on an urban and rural property
Nationalization of Banks
Abolition of the princely purse
An old-age pension scheme
Fixed minimum wage
Enactment of factory laws
Cottage and small scale factory
GraminRojgar Yojna
Women empowerment
Insurance schemes
Housing development
Removal of untouchability.
Reservation for the upliftment of Sc’s, St’s, and backward classes.
To check Environment pollution.
Question 14.
Explain the socio-economic principles of the chapter of Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer:
Main guidelines regarding socio-economic upliftment of the people are contained in Art 38 and Art 39 of the Constitution which is as under.
To secure a social order for the promotion of the welfare of the people and to minimize inequalities of income and status.
To build a socialistic pattern of society.
Equal-pay for equal work.
That the ownership and control of the material resources of the community are so distributed as best to serve the purpose of the common good.
There should not be a concentration of wealth and were in few hands.
To raise the standard of living of people of Sc’s, St’s and backward castes and handicaps and aged persons.
Protection of children, women, and workers from exploitation and to ensure proper working conditions for the laborers.
To ensure minimum wages for the workers.
Question 15.
Explain the Liberal Principles given in the chapter of Directive Principles of State Policy. –
Answer:
Followings are Liberal Principles which are given as guidelines in the chapter of the Directive principle of State Policy.
To secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India Art 44.
To provide for provision for free and compulsory education for children Art 45.
To provide educational and economic interests of scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and weaker sections.
To protect and improve the environment and to safeguard the forests and wildlife of the country.
To protect monuments and places and objects of national importance.
To take steps to separate the judiciary from the executive.
Rights and Duties in the Indian Constitution Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type
Question 1.
Discuss the importance of Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles in the development of Indian democracy and people’s welfare.
Answer:
After independence, the nation faced two important tasks ahead. First was the national reconstruction and development and the second task was to improve the socio-economic, cultural, moral, psychological standard of the people of India who have been victims of untold sufferings in the era of colonialism.
Keeping in new this fact, the Constitution makers had introduced the chapter of Fundamental Rights in tire Hard part of the Constitution for the purpose of political democracy, and the chapter of Directive Principles of State Policy in the IVth part of the Constitution for the purpose of economic democracy.
With the enjoyment of Fundamental Rights, the people of India have attained new confidence and a sense of belongingness. Right of Equality has given a new face to Indian society. The sense of law vanishes. Untouchability is abolished. Equalitarian society is built up by removing the titles and privileged class.
Exploitation in any form banned. As a mark of secularism people are given liberty in matters of Religion. To strengthen unity in diversity, the Right of. Education and Culture are given to linguistic, geographical .and religious minorities to ensure the availability of the rights, Art 32 Right of Constitutional Remady has made Fundamental Rights justiciable.
Similarly, Directive Principles of State Policy has helped in raising the standard of living of people, particularly of weaker sections of society like Scheduled castes, Scheduled tribes, women, backward castes, handicapped, aged, laborers and farmers. The central government and state governments respecting the directions of constitution-makers and as per welfare nature of India state, have started many welfare measures to meet the end of Directive ‘ Principles.
Some of these measures are:
To build a socialistic pattern of society, to secure the cause of the common good.
Removal of concentration of wealth.
Minimum wages of laborers are fixed.
Old age Pension Schemes.
To improve the health of children and women.
Protection of the environment and to provide? drinking water.
Land Reforms implement and ceiling op property.
Equal pay for equal work.
Bank nationalization and Loan on cheaper rates
Gramin Rojgar Yojna.
In this way, we can say that Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles have helped in making India a welfare state.
Election and Representation Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 3
Election and Representation Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 3
Election and Representation Class 11 Important Extra Questions Political Science Chapter 3
Here we are providing Class 11 Political Science Important Extra Questions and Answers Chapter 3 Election and Representation. Political Science Class 11 Important Questions with Answers are the best resource for students which helps in class 11 board exams.
Election and Representation Important Extra Questions Very Short Answer Type
Question 1.
What is democracy?
Answer:
Democracy is a form of government in which ultimate power rests with the people. Broadly speaking it is a system of governance in which the all-round development of the people is possible because they are the real governor.
Question 2.
Differentiate between Direct democracy and Indirect democracy.
Answer:
Indirect democracy people participate directly in the affairs of the state. They discuss, debate, and take the final decisions directly in the issues of administration while in Indirect democracy people participate in the affairs of the state through their representatives. Direct democracy is possible only in the smaller states while Indirect democracy is run in bigger states in sizes and populations.
Question 3.
What is Election and why it is necessary?
Answer:
The method which is followed to choose their representative in Indirect democracy is known as Election. It is very necessary for Indirect democracy because it is the only thing that the people participate in the matters of administration. All major decisions are taken by these elected representatives on behalf of the people.
Question 4.
What is Adult Franchise?
Answer:
The right to vote for every adult person irrespective of his caste, color, region religion, language, and sex is known as Adult Franchise. The age of adulthood may be different for different societies. In Britain, it is 17 years. In India the age of adulthood is 18 years initially it was 21 years. In this principle, fall faith has been, expressed in the sense of decisions and capabilities, and capacities of every adult.
Question 5.
What do you mean by territorial Representation?
Answer:
When the whole state is divided into a number of territorial constituencies and all the people, living in that constituency elect their one representative it is known as Territorial representation.
Question 6.
What is Functional Representation?
Answer:
When the whole area of the state is divided into occupational considerations and every occupational group-elect their own representative, it is known as Functional Representation. In such a system businessmen elect their own representatives, farmers elect their own representatives and women elect their own representatives.
Question 7.
Write five features of India’s electoral system.
Answer:
Following are the main features of India’s electoral system
Adult Franchise
Territorial representation
Multi-member Election Commission.
Reservation for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
Joint Electoral system
Secret Ballot paper.
A decision by majority votes.
Question 8.
What is the First Part of the Past System?
Answer:
In this system of election whoever has more votes than all the other candidates, is declared elected. The winning candidate need not secure a majority of the votes. In the electoral race, the candidate who is ahead of others and who secures the winning post first fall is the winner. This method is also known as the plurality system.
Question 9.
Explain the Proportional method of Representation (PIR system).
Answer:
It is a method that is used in multi-member constituencies. Here every voter can express as many preferences as there are candidates in the election. The value of each vote will be equal. The person who will secure the definite quota on the basis of counting of first preference is declared elected. It ensures the representation of different social & minority groups in proportion to their population.
Question 10.
Why the FPTP system (First point the post system), was adopted in India?
Answer:
India FPTP system was adopted in India because of two factors.
India has a single-member constituency where the P.R. system cannot be used.
The second reason is FPTP system is simple while the PR system is complex, so for the people of India who are maximum illiterate PR system would
In the FPTP system, people have a clear choice to opt.
FPTP system offers a choice of candidates.
Question 11.
What is Election Commission?
Answer:
Election Commission is a constitutional body who referred in Art 324 of the Indian Constitution which provides for an Independent Election Commission for the superintendent, directions and control of the electoral, and the conduct of the election in India. In the beginning, it was made a single-member commission but Constitutional amendment this commission is made multi member commission with one Chief Election Commissioner and two other Election Commissioners. All have equal powers.
Question 12.
Write five steps of the election process.
Answer:
Preparation of electro constituencies and voter’s lists.
Notification and filing of nominations.
Scrutiny, withdrawals, and finalization of the candidates.
Preparation of Ballot papers.
Preparation of necessary arrangements and conduct of the elections.
Counting of the votes and declaration of the results.
Question 13.
Write five defects of the Indian electoral system.
The minority is ruling over a majority
The problem of impersonations
Booth capturing
Use of black money in the elections.
All the sections of society are not properly represented.
The entry of the people of criminal background in the Parliament and assemblies.
Political Instability
Question 14.
Write some electrical reforms.
Answer:
To remove the electoral defects certain measures have been taken up and certain reforms have been suggested by different committees and commissions. The main reforms are as under:
Use of EVM (Electronic Voting Machines.)
Compulsory use of photo identity cards
Women should be given reservations in Parliament and Assemblies.
There should be state funding to check the use of black money in the elections.
The number of political, parties should be checked.
Question 15.
Discuss the role of people in the elections.
Answer:
Besides the governmental machinery, the people have equalrespon¬sibility to ensure free and fair, and peaceful elections at different levels. People should be more vigilant and more actively involved in political activities. There should be some political institutions and voluntary organizations who could act as watchdogs in the functioning of the governmental machinery and ensure free and fair elections in the country.
Election and Representation Important Extra Questions Short Answer Type
Question 1.
Explain the merits and demerits of Direct democracy and Indirect democracy.
Answer:
Direct democracy is one form of a democratic form of government in which people participate directly in the process of governance. The people of state sit together in person, discuss the issues and make final decisions about old matters like policymaking, making rules, making appointments, and giving punishment. It has two important merits
No.1. People take part in the discussion and decisions directly.
No. 2. The decisions are taken quickly and no time is wasted.
It has some demerits also which are as under:
It is not feasible in bigger states,
Common people are not competent to taken technical decisions. Indirect democracy is another form of democracy where people do not participate directly but indirectly i.e. through their representative. The elected representatives act on behalf of the people and take part in the matter of administration.
It has two main merits which are as under.
It is possible in big states.
Elected people are responsible to the people.
Its demerits are as under.
A lot of expenditure has to be incurred on elections
Representatives are unable to keep all the interest of the people.
Question 2.
What is the election? What are the requisites of an election?
Answer:
The election is a method of choosing one’s representative. In a representative democracy, the election becomes a necessity because people cannot take part in administration directly. It is an elected representative who works on behalf of the common people. There is a number of requisitions for an election.
These requisites are as under
It is to be decided that who will be eligible for vote.
There should be free and fair elections for which a competent body has to be constituted to conduct free and fair elections.
The basis of constituency formation has to be decided
The method of election has to be decided.
Election results are decided.
Question 3.
Write main features of the Indian electoral system.
Answer:
Following are the main features of the Indian electoral system:
Adult Franchise: Every person above the age of 18years has been given the rights to Vote.
Multimember Election Commissioner: Indian Constitution has pro¬vided a multimember (Now three members) Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections.
Joint Electorate: Joint electorate is a very important feature of the Indian electoral system. In this system, all the persons irrespective of their caste or occupation, elect their representative jointly.
Temporal representation: In India Territorial representation has been adopted which means the country has been divided into territorial constituencies (Now 5.43). Each such Territorial constituency will send one represen¬tative.
reservation ensure the adequate representation of each minority social groups some seats have been reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled tribes in Parliament and State Assemblies.
Secret ballot papers.
First Past the Post system
Election Petitions
Question 4.
Describe various steps in the Election Process of India.
Answer:
Following are the stages of the Election process in India:
Formation & Electoral Territorial constituencies by the commission.
Updating and finalizing the voter’s list
Notification of declaration of Elections
Nomination of candidates
Scrutiny of the forms of candidates
Time for withdrawal of the candidature
Finalization of the total candidates in the Electron and publication of such a list.
Printing of the ballot papers
The proportion of EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) or the ballot box.
Constitution of Polling booths in different constitutions
Constitution of polling parties
Preparation of poHingJiags with necessary election material for each polling booth.
Conducting of the elections
Counting of the votes
Declaration of the result.
Settlement of Election petitions
Question 5.
Distinguish between FPTP and PR system.
Answer:
FPTP system stands for First Post the post system which means
that candidate, who secures the highest vote among the total candidates in the election is declared elected. It is not necessary for him to get even 50% of the total votes. It means that in the electorate race, the candidate who is ahead of others and who crosses the winning post, first of all, is the winner.
In the PR system i.e the Proportional Representation method, multi-member constituencies are made. It is of two types 1. Single Transferable vote system and No.2. is the list system. In this system, it is ensured that minority social groups are duly represented as per the proportion of their qualifications. Similarly, all political parties are given a number of seats in proportion to the votes they have received in the election.
Question 6.
Discuss the composition of the Election Commission of India.
Answer:
Now Election Commission of India is a three-member body with one Chief Election Commissioner and two other election commissioners. Each election commissioner has equal power and pay. However, Chief Election Commissioner provides the meetings of the commission and discharges the formal duties of the Election Commission. He also acts as spokesman of the commission. Every Election Commissioner enjoys the tenure of six years or up to the attainment of the age of 65 years whichever is earlier.
To assist the Election Commissioner of India there is a chief electoral officer in every state. State Election Commissioner is responsible for conducting the local body elections and is independent of the Election Commission of India. When elections are declared every State and Central Government employee comes under the jurisdiction of’Election Commissioner under the Representation of people’s Act 1951 which makes it obligatory for every employee to perform the election duty assigned to him by the commission.
Question 7.
Write main functions of the Election Commissioner.
Answer:
The Election Commissioner has a wide range of functions which are as under.
The election Commissioner supervises the preparation of updated voter’s list in every state.,
It also determines the timings of the election and prepares the schedules of the election. lt also notifies the schedule which includes filling up of nomination form, last date of scripting, last date of withdrawals, date of polling, date of counting, and declaration to the result.
Its main duty is to conduct free and fair poll:
It has the power to implement the model code of elections and it punishes those who try to violate it.
It takes the decision regarding repel! in any constituency.
The Election Commission accord recognition to political parties and allocates flaps, symbols to the candidates and political parties.
Election Commission monitor and supervise the election and takes a decision about any dispute related, with the election. „
Question 8.
Discuss the position of the Election Commission of India.
Answer:
Chief Election Commissioner has a wide range of powers so is its role and position. Once the years the Election Commission of India has emerged as an independent authority and has exercised its powers and authority to ensure free and fair elections.
When Chief Election Commissioners like T.N. Susan, B.B. Lyndog were at the helm of authority it has acquired more and more teeth. It is widely agreed that Election Commission is more independent and assertive now than it was ever. The Election Commission has started using more effectively its powers that it has been given by the Constitution makers. Many political leaders call it judicial activism also but it is not so.
Over the years Election Commission has conducted the election of 14 Lok Sabhas and-many more state assembly elections and bye-elections have been conducted. Election Commission has conducted the elections in the most difficult situations. Generally, its decisions have been accepted and its impartiality has never been questioned. Its authority has been appreciated even in other countries also.
Question 9.
Mention some Election defects in our Election system.
Answer:
In spite of the smooth functionary of our electoral democracy, our electoral system is not free from defects. It has some structural and functional defects which are as under.
The multiplicity of the political parties and candidates
Rigging in the elections
FPTP system is defective because it ensures the win of a candidate even if he or she does not get the majority of the votes.
Booth capturing
The minority is ruling over the majority
Hung Assemblies and hung Parliament
Impersonation
Use of black money in the elections
Crimmalisatiort Or politics.
Lack of political training.
Question 10.
Explain Single Transferable Vote System.
Answer:
A single Transferable system is a proportional method of representation. It is used in multi-member constituencies. In this system, every voter can express as many preferences as there are candidates in the election. A person who secures the desired quotas on basis of counting of votes of first preference is declared elected. The formula of getting the quota is as under.

If no person does not get the definite Quota in first counting the remaining votes of other candidates are transferred to the nearest candidate till he gets desired Quota.
Question 11.
Explain the List System.
Answer:
It is also another method of Proportional method of representation. It is also used in multi-member constituencies. In this system, each party is allotted the share of seats in the Parliament in Proportion to its share of votes. Each party fills its Quota of seats by picking many of its nominees from a preference list that has been declared before the elections. In this system, a party gets the same proportion of seats as its proportion of votes. The voter expresses his preference for the list of the party and not for the candidate. Here also a definite Quota is used.
Question 12.
Why Reservation is necessary.
Answer:
Since Indian Society has been in grip of several socio-economic disparities and inequalities. Many social groups remained socially and politically and culturally backward. To ensure their representation in democratic institutions like Parliament, assemblies they provided the reservation of the same seats for Scheduled Castes (79) and Scheduled Tribes (41). The reservation was necessary for the fair and definite representation of their socially backward groups.
Question 13.
Give some suggestions for election reforms.
Answer:
On the basis of discussion and debate about various election reforms of different platforms and on the basis of the recommendation of various committees and commission some of the important suggestions for election reformers are as under:-
FPTP system is faulty, therefore it should be repeated by the PR system.
There, should be reservation for women in Parliament and State assemblies as has been done in rural and urban local bodies.
Roll of money should be checked for that there should be state funding.
EVM (Electronic Voting Machines) should be used in all the constituencies.
Candidates having criminal background should be strictly debarred to contest the elections.
Campaigning on the basis of caste and religion should be punishable.
A multiplicity of political parties and independent candidates should be checked.
Election photo cards should be made compulsory so that impersonation could be checked.
There should be a transparent-audit of the funds of all political parties.
The voter list should be made up to date.
Question 14.
What is the role of political parties in the elections?
Answer:
In most democracies, the political parties are extra-constitutional growths and have emerged in the political process as a matter of Fundamental Rights. But political parties play a significant role in making the elections meaningful. Political parties offer attractive policies and programs before the voters and ask for their votes. Political parties offer choices before the voters. Political parties educate the people and promote the participation of the people in the election process. More responsible are the political parties more meaningful is the election. Political parties also help in the formation of governments. The negative aspect of the political parties is that they demand the votes on parochial likes hence divide the society. But we can say that political parties never became essential for the smooth conduct of the elections. They cannot be separated from the election process.
Question 15.
Why women could not be given reservation in parliament and State Assemblies so far?
Answer:
The issue of women’s reservation in Parliament and State Assemblies has been agitating the mind of the political leadership of almost all the political parties. No party opposes the reservation of-woman. Even several consti¬tutional amendments have been introduced in the Parliament but unfortu¬nately this bill could not become law because of the hypocrisy of the political leadership of all the political parties.
In spite of the fact that almost all the political parties have given their issue place in their election manifesto but when the bill is introduced for this purpose, most of the political parties take the opposite position and the result is that it remained only a cry. Many parties demand reservation within reservation i.e. separate reservation of SCs and SCs women. It is becoming of this situation it could not become a law.
Election and Representation Important Extra Questions Long Answer Type
Question 1.
Describe the election system in India.
Answer:
India is-a representative democracy in which election is a must. To conduct free and fair elections at the different levels an Election Commission is provided by the Constitution (Art 324 of Indian Consitution). We have adopted Adult Franchise which means every person who is an adult (18 years of age) irrespective of his caste, color, status, and sex is eligible to exercise his franchise.
We have adopted territorial representation instead of functional representation. All the persons of different castes, classes, and occupations living in a definite geographical area (Constituency) elect only one representative. Therefore it is a joint system. Another very important feature of our electoral system is the FPTP system (First Past the Post system) It means the person who gets the maximum votes among the contesting candidates is declared elected However for the same posts like President, Vice President, and Rajya Sabha. The Proportional Representation method (Single Transferable vote system is used.
Keeping our historical background in view constitution-makers reserved certain seats in Parliament and State Assemblies for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes to ensure their fair representation. However, women could not get any reservation in Parliament and State Assemblies. Efforts are going in this direction. Indian electoral system has been proved successful and up to the expectations of the Consitution makers. Since 1952, fourteen Lok Sabha elections have been constituted. Election Commissioner has worked in a free and fair manner even in most difficult situations. Its credibility and reputation. has been acknowledged in other countries also. It is not a perfect system, therefore some reforms are underway to make it more effective.