2nd PUC Political Science Question Bank Chapter 2 Elections and Party System in India

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Karnataka 2nd PUC Political Science Question Bank Chapter 2 Elections and Party System in India

2nd PUC Political Science Elections and Party System in India Text Book Questions and Answers

I. Answer the following in a word or a sentence each.

Question 1.
What is the root word of Election?
Answer:
The root word of ‘election’ is the latin word ‘Eligere’ means to choose, to pick or to select.

Question 2.
What is election?
Answer:
Election is an exercise by which voters choose their representatives to hold public office.

Question 3.
What is General Election?
Answer:
General elections are held periodically once in five years.

Question 4.
What is By-election?
Answer:
By-election is held to fill vacancy arising due to the death or resignation or disqualification of an elected member.

Question 5.
What is Re-election?
Answer:
Re-election is held when elections are counter-manded due to irregularities.

Question 6.
What is the Mid-Term Election?
Answer:
Mid-term election is conducted when the house is dissolved before the completion of its term.

Question 7.
What is Direct Election?
Answer:
The electrol system in which all eligible voters of the nation directly elect their representatives through secret ballots is called Direct election.

Question 8.
What is Indirect Election?
Answer:
The election were voters elect a group of members to form an ‘electrol college’ as an intermediary body to elect representatives is called indirect election.

Question 9.
Give an example for Direct Election.
Answer:
The Lok sabha (House of people) are directly elected.

Question 10.
Give an example for Indirect Election.
Answer:
The president of lndia is indirectly elected.

Question 11.
What is Universal Adult Franchise?
Answer:
Universal Adult Franchise is the right given to eligible voters to cast their vote irrespective of sex, caste, creed. etc.,

Question 12.
What is the minimum age of voter in India?
Answer:
The minimum age of voter in India is 18 years.

Question 13.
How many members are there in the Election Commission of lndia?
Answer:
The election commission India has three members.

Question 14.
Who appoints the Election Commissioners of lndia?
Answer:
The President of lndia appoints the Election Commissoner of lndia.

Question 15.
What is the term of the Election Commissioner?
Answer:
The term of Election Commissioner is six years or till they attain the age of 65 years.

Question 16.
Expand EVM.
Answer:
Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).

Question 17.
Expand EPIC.
Answer:
Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC).

Question 18.
What is Electors Photo Identity Card?
Answer:
The EPIC was introduced by the Chief Election Commissoner T.N. Sheshan (1990¬1996) to conduct free and fair elections to remove evil practices like corruption and impersonation (bogus voting) etc.

Question 19.
What is Electronic Voting Machine?
Answer:
The electronic voting machine has replaced the system of ballot box and ballot papers. It consists of Controlling unit and Balloting unit.

Question 20.
What is a political party?
Answer:
A political party is a group of organised people for a common purpose of attaining po-litical power through democratic methods.

Question 21.
Name the party system in India.
Answer:
Multi-party system

Question 22.
What is national party?
Answer:
The part is considered as regional part if they meet following criteria:

1. The party securing at least 6% of the valid votes in Lok Sabha or Vidhana Sabha elections and two Vidhana Sabha seats or
2. Minimum of 2% seats in three States of LokSabha.

Question 23.
Give an example of a National party.
Answer:
The Indian national congress is a National party.

Question 24.
What is regional party?
Answer:
The part is considered as regional part if they meet following criteria:

1. The party securing at least 6% of the valid votes in LokSabha or Vidhana Sabha elections and two Vidhana Sabha seats or
2. Minimum 3% seats of total Vidhana Sabha seats in the states or secure at least three Constituencies.

Question 25.
Give an example of a Regional party.
Answer:
The (JD) S is a regional party.

Question 26.
Who was the founder of Indian National Congress?
Answer:
A.O. Hume.

Question 27.
When did Indian National Congress come into existence?
Answer:
In 1885.

Question 28.
Expand NDA.
Answer:
National Democratic Alliance.

Question 29.
Expand UPA.
Answer:
United Progressive Alliance.

Question 30.
When did the BJP come in to existence?
Answer:
1980

Question 31.
When did the Communist party in India come into existence?
Answer:
December 26, 1925

Question 32.
What is Defection?
Answer:
Defection means an elected Representative who defects to another party without resigning his membership for benefits.

Question 33.
When did the Anti-Defection Law come into existence?
Answer:
The Anti-Defection law Came into existence on 1st April 1985 through the the 52nd constitution amendment.

Question 34.
What is Anti-Defection Law?
Answer:
The Anti-Defection law is one which combats the evil of political defections. It prevents defection of elected representatives.

Question 35.
What are the other names of Defection?
Answer:
Floor crossing, Carpet crossing, Horse trading and turncoats.

Question 36.
Who enforced the Anti-Defection Law?
Answer:
The then prime minister of India Shri Rajiv Gandhi enforced the Anti-Defection Law.

II. Two Marks Questions.

Question 1.
What is Direct Election? Give an Example.
Answer:
Direct election is a system in which all eligible voters of the nation directly elect their representatives through secret’ballots without any intermediaries. The voters go to the polling stations and exercise franchise for eg: the loksabha (House of people).

Question 2.
What is Indirect Election? Give an Example.
Answer:
The election method where voter elect a group of members in the first instance to form an ‘electrol college’ as an intermediary body to elect representatives. Eg: The president of India is elected through the electrol college, which consists of the representatives of people. The members of the Rajysabha and members of the State legislative council are indirectly elected by the people.

Question 3.
What is Universal Adult Franchise? Give an Example.
Answer:
Eligible voters can cast their votes in favour of their representatives with freedom and with¬out discrimination of sex, cast, creed is called Universal Adult Franchise. In India any person who has attained 15 yrs of age can cast votes.

Question 4.
What is Election Commission?
Answer:
‘Election commission’ is a statutory body provided by the Indian constitution to conduct elections in India. Art. 324 and 329 in part XV deals with the composition, powers and functions of election commission. The election commission is responsible for conducting of free and fair election.

Question 5.
Write any two functions of the Elec¬tion Commission?
Answer:
According to Article 324 (1) of the Indian constitution the election commission is bestowed with powers and functions.

1. Prepares electrol roll and its periodical revision
2. Holds elections to parliament, state legislatures and office ofthe president and vice president.

Question 6.
Name any two mandatory disclosures declared by the candidates during election?
Answer:
Two mandatory disclosures declared by the candidate during election are

• Criminal antecedents
• Property antecedents.

Question 7.
State any two advantages of EVM.
Answer:

• EVM can be operated easily and saves time.
• Economic and Eco-friendly.

Question 8.
Write any two uses of EPIC.
Answer:

• EPIC prevents impersonation.
• EPIC consists of voters age, it will enable the voter to assert that he is eligible to cast vote.

Question 9.
What is State Funding?
Answer:
An eligible person with education and caliber and social concern may fail to get elected due to lack of fund. The state provides funds to encourage such candidates to encourage competent and capable individuals with honesty and Integrity to take part in the election.

Question 10.
What are the committees that recom-mended for electrol reforms?
Answer:

1. V.K. Tarkunde committee (1974 – 75)
2. Justice Kuldeep Singh committee (2002)

Question 11.
Which are the committees recommended for electrol financing through State funding?
Answer:

1. Indrajit Gupta Committee (1998).
2. Wanchoo committee.

Question 12.
Define political party.
Answer:
A political party is an organised group of citizens who prefer to share the same political views and who by acting as a political unity try to control the Government.

Question 13.
What is Single party system? Give an example.
Answer:
The prevalance of single political party in a country is called ‘Single party system’ Eg: China.

Question 14.
What is Dual party system? Give an example.
Answer:
The existence of two political parties in the country is called Dual party system’. Eg: USA.

Question 15.
What is Multi party system? Give an example.
Answer:
The presence of more than two political parties in a country is called ‘Multi party system’. Eg: India.

Question 16.
Write the two functions of political parties.
Answer:

1. Preparation of election manifesto: The election agenda is arranged through manifesto. Its main intention is capturing power with popular support.
2. Selection of candidates: The selection of best candidate is made on the basis of popularity, acceptability and responsiveness to the grievances of the people.

Question 17.
What is Coalition Government?
Answer:
When no single political party secures absolute majority, like minded political parties come together and join the single largest party to form a ‘Coalition Government.

Question 18.
When is Coalition Government formed?
Answer:
When no single political party secures absolute majority, like minded political parties come together and join the single largest party to form a ‘Coalition Government. ’

Question 19.
Name the National parties.
Answer:
Indian National Congress, Muslim League, Communist Party of India, Bharatiya Janata Party.

Question 20.
What are the main Regional parties?
Answer:
The main Regional panics \ DMK, AIADMK, Telugu Desam, Shiv Sena, Na¬tional Conference, AGP, JD(S), RJD, SJP, BJD.

III. Five Marks Questions.

Question 1.
Write the importance of Elections.
Answer:
Election is an exercise by which voters choose their representatives to hold publicfice. It is the primary activity is forming democratic and representative Govt. Election enables the voters to participate in the political activities of the state and exercise their political rights. Election enables people to be conscions of thier rights and duties and stimulates interest in public affairs and develops public spirit. In a democratic political process, elections are held regularly.
Importance of Election:

1. Election is the foundation of democratic government.
2. It is the key component to provide justice and freedom to all without any discriminatioa
3. It is designed to create a popular government.
4. It gives a citizen an opportunity to have one’s voice heard and a choice by which one should be governed. This enhances the self respect and dignity of citizens to realize their importance in forming the government.
5. It is the barometer of democracy and serves as forum for the discussion of public issues and facilitates the expression of public opinion.
6. It imparts political education and training to voters to actively participate in the activities of the nation.
7. It protects the interests of the minorities by providing representation in the legislature.
8. Election reinforces the stability and legitimacy of the political community by bringing together citizens of the nation and helps to facilitate socio-political integration.
9. It makes the representatives to be accountable for their performance in office and conduct.
10. It contributes to the continuation of democratic govt, and enables the peaceful transfer of power.

Question 2.
Explain the features of Direct Elections.
Answer:

1. More Democratic: Eligible voters have wider choice to elect their representatives directly. It provides for direct relationship between the voter and their representatives.
2. Responsive: Since their is direct relationship between voters and the. representatives, they are responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people. If they do not effectively respond to wav out oi the neat election.
3. Creates political awareness: In the direct election, voters come in direct contact with their representatives. Voters are curious about them and gather information through mass media and print media about political parties, their manifesto, and personality of the candidates. In this way it educates the voters.
4. Selection of eligible candidates: The voters test the capacities, capabilites of the candidates and finally elect them since there is rapport between the two.
5. Public Relationship: In view of the forthcoming elections, representatives keep regular contact with the constituency and people.

Question 3.
Explain the features of Indirect Elections.
Answer:
1. Selection of best candidates:
In this method, candidates are elected by the intelligent voters. For example at the first instance people elect their represantatives to the electoral college and at the second instance who in turn judiciously elect final representatives of the legislature or head of the nation. This method involves double election. Elected Representatives act wisely with political knowledge.

2. Prevents unhealthy campaign:
It avoids all sorts of evils like dirty propaganda tricks, instigation of people for petty is¬sues to divide them. For example in the election of president of lndia the average voters keep away from all sorts of party gimmicks.

3. Peaceful voting:
In this method, there is no scope for illegal activities or fights during the election as it happens in the direct election. In the electoral process only small numbers of enlightend voters peacefully exercise their votes judiciously The elections are conducted according to well-defined norms and values.

4. Little scope for emotions:
Elected representatives are not carried away by passions or sentiments nor can be influenced like an average voter. There is no chance for misusing sensitive issues for political gains. The higher level leaders are elected by People’s Representative’s Act with a sense of responsibility.

5. Suitable to developing nations:
Since majority of the voters are ignorant, not educated and intelligent small group of politically educated and wise voters elect responsible and public-spirited representatives.

Question 4.
Write the composition of Election Commission of India.
Answer:
Composition of Election Commission Article 324 provides for the office of the election commission of India. It consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners. Till 1993 it was a single member body, later on, it became a three member body during the prime ministership of P.V. Narasimha Rao.

Question 5.
Describe the powers and functions of Election Commission.
Answer:
Powers and functions of Election Commission:

1. Prepares electoral roll and its periodical revision
2. Holds elections to parliament, state legislatures and offices of the President and Vice-Presidents.
3. After the announcement of elections, it decides the time-table.
4. It conducts elections for vacant seats.
5. It grants recognition to political parties as national and state level parties.
6. It scrutinizes the nomination papers.
7. It allots symbols to political parties and independent candidates.
8. It appoints officers and other staff members to conduct election and make necessary arrangements.
9. It can order for repoll in any constitunency or any polling booth.
10. It can withold the election results on valid grounds.
11. The President or the Governor acts on the advice or the election commission at the time of disqualification of members of the House.
12. It enforces the code of conduct for the candidates and political parties i.e, the election expenses and submission of accounts after election, environmental protection against noise pollution etc during elections.
13. As per the Represenatation of People’s Act (RPA) of 1950 and 1957 Election Commission of India conducts the process of election.

Question 6.
Write the advantages of Electors Photo Identity Card.
Answer:
The EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) was introduced by the Chief Election Commissioner, T.N.Seshan (1990-1996) to con¬duct free and fair elections to remove evil practices like corruption and impersonation (bo¬gus voting) etc., it was introduced in India in 1993. The arrangements were made to issue EPIC to prevent impersonation of electors.

Initially, it was difficult to issue identity card to all the voters due to some technical problems. But during the term of M.S.Gil the possession of EPIC by the voters was made compulsory. It is an official document issued by the election commission to all the eligible voters. It consists of information of voters age, name, photo, gender, address, constituency, date of issue etc.

Question 7.
Explain the advantages of Electronic Voting Machine.
Answer:
The EVM (Electronic voting machine) is one of the important innovations of modem technology. It has replaced the system of bal¬lot box and ballot papers with most effective EVM. The EVMs were introduced for the first time in 1998 inthe Legislative Assembly elections of states and it was successful. Later on in the 14th Loksabha elections, they were used all over India.

E.V.M consists of Controlling unit and Balloting unit. Both are interconnected with a cable. The balloting unit is kept in a segregated place where voters can exercise their votes in privacy. The controlling unit is with the polling officer. After the voter proves his identity the voter is allowed to access the Balloting unit.

The voter has to press a blue button on the Balloting unit against the candidate’s symbol he casts his vote. After he presses his button of choice, there is a beeping sound indicating that the voting procedure is completed.
The advantages of an EVM are:

1. EVM can be easily operated and saves time.
2. It is simple to the voter to cast votes.
3. Quick and accurate results.
4. Economic and eco-friendly.
5. Avoids invalid votes.
6. Controls irregularities.

Question 8.
Write a note on the criminal antecedents of a candidate.
Answer:
Mandatory disclosure of antecedents of a candidate includes disclosure of criminal antecedents. The candidate has to disclose their personal details of crimes while filing ‘their nomination This is to facilitate that right candidates contest and restrict persons with criminal back grounds from contesting elections.
Criminal Antecedents:
To curb criminalization of politics the Supreme Court of India in 2002 gave directions to the Election Commission to implement and also to the Parliament to amend the People’s Represention Act of 1951 in December 2002. Through this act, submission of details regarding criminal antecedents are made compulsory for all the candidates along with their nomination papers. Details of ariy cases pending against them in any court of India and or if they were either convicted or acquitted.

The Supreme Court of India has decided and made it clear that candidates having criminal records are debarred from contesting election. If it is not declared or disclosed, members of Legislature or Parliament would lose their membership if they were found to be having criminal antecedents. The election commission has framed rules to restrict candidates with criminal antecedents from contesting elections.

Disqualification for criminal Uttecedents is provided in R.P.Act 1951. They are:

1. As per the Act A person is disqualified from contesting election only if conviction by the court of law.
2. Gases filed six months before election would lead to disqualification.
3. Cases in which candidates are accused with the offense and sentenced for two or more years are disqualifed for election.
4. With the offense proved by a court of law a person is not eligible to contest election for a period of 6 years.

Question 9.
Write a note on the educational antecedents of a candidate.
Answer:
Mandatory declaration of educational antecedents A candidate who is contesting for elections should mandatorily declared his educational qualifications. He/She should file an affidavit to give information relating to his educational qualifications. The candidate, being a representative of the people has to be educated and actively take part in the proceedings of the legislature, administration and inkw making process. Though the constitution has not mentioned any educational limit to the candidates, this disclosure enables the voters to elect qualified persons.

Question 10.
Write a note on the property antecedents of a candidate.
Answer:
Mandatory declaration of property antecedents. Candidates contesting elections have to declare their property antecedents at the time of filing their nomination papers. Contesting an election is an expensive affair. Persons with good education but dearth of funds may hinder them to contest whereas people with money power get elected and may amass more wealth.

This leads to corruption. To curb misuse of the elected office, the election commission has made it mandatory to declare the details of movable and immovable property of candidate and his family members. This disclosure will help the electorate/voters to assess the honesty or dishonesty of the candidate.

Question 11.
Write about the reforms in electoral financing through state funding.
Answer:
Reforms in Electoral Financing through State Funding State funding is necessary to encourage eligible candidates who have education, and high caliber and social concern but does not have the necessary funds to contest and election. To consider these facts a study made by committees like Wanchoo committee, Tarakunde committee made recommendations of State funding.

State funding will encourage competent, capable individual with honesty and itegrity to contest elections. State funding will create new environment and necessitate the political parties to not procure illegal funds and donations for elections. The Indrajit Gupta Committee was formed in 1998 to look into State funding.
The committee’s recommendations are:

1. To minimize the election expenses of political parties, a part of its is borne by the State.
2. State fending should be in kind and not in cash.
3. Separate election fund to be created and the annual contribution of Central Govt is Rs. 600 crores and that of states should be 600 crores.
4. State funding is to be confined to the recognised parties by the election commission
5. To avail the state funding benefits, the political parties must submit their Income Tax returns.
6. Free election telecasting and broadcasting to all the political parties on govt owned T.V./Radio and other private channels.
7. The details of expenditure should be given to the election commission within the specified time.
8. It recommended for reasonable restrictions for writings on walls, display of cutouts, banners, posters and buntings.

Question 12.
Write about the Anti-Defection Law.
Answer:
The Anti-Defection Act came into force on 1st April 1985 through the 52nd Amendment of the constitution. Defection means an elected Representative who defects to another party without resigning his membership for benefits. This will create instability in the Government. It also creates doubts in the minds of people. Defections will not allow proper functioning of the Government. The Intention of the Law was to combat “the evil of political defections”.
The Anti-defection law (1985) provides,

1. A member of parliament or state legislature belonging to any political party shall be disqualified if he voluntarily quits his party.
2. He will be disqualified from his membership if he votes against his party whip in the session.
3. An MP or M.L. A belonging to any political party shall be disqualified from his membership if he votes in the session without prior permission of his party.
4. A nominated member shall be disqualified from his membership in the upper house if he joins any political party after six months from the date on which he assumes his position.
5. If 1/3 rd strength of any political party merges with another political party shall be considered as defection.
6. A person disqualified under this act shall not be provided any office of profit.
7. The Anti-Defection law determines the size of the council of ministers. The size of the council of ministers of union shall not exceed 15% of the total members of Lok Sabha and similar to that of State Legislative Assembly.
8. Speaker can intiate action against the members under Anti-defection law.
9. The chairpersons of legislature are per¬mitted to frame the rules to implement this law.

Other Provisions of Anti-Defection Law:

1. A person shall not be disqualified if his original party merges with another party under this law.
2. The Speaker and Deputy speaker o f Lok sabha and Deputy Chairman of Rajya sabha, the Presiding Officers of state leg- Matures shall not be disqualified under this law if they quit their original party.
3. A person who is disqualified under this law can challenge the orders of the Speaker before Indian Courts Eg: 15 members of Karnataka Legislative Assembly chal-lenged the orders of Speaker before the Supreme Court.

IV. Ten Marks Questions.

Question 1.
Differentiate between Direct Election and Indirect Election.
Answer:
Direct Election:
In this system all the eligible voters of the nation directly elect their representatives through secret ballots without any intermedi¬aries. The voters go the polling station and ex¬ercise franchise for Eg: The Lok Sabha (House of people) and Vidhana Sabha State legislative Assembly in India and the House of commons in UK and House of Representatives in the US A are elected directly.

1. More Democratic: Eligible voters have wide choice to elect their representatives directly. It provides for direct relationship between the voter and their representatives.
2. Responsive: Since their is direct relationship between voters and the representatives, they are responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people. If they do not effectively respond to the needs of the people, they are shown the way out in the neat election.
3. Creates political awareness: In the direct election, voters come in direct contact with their representatives. Voters are curious about them and gather information through mass media and pring media about political parties, their manifesto, and personality of the candidates. In this way, it educates the voters.
4. Selection of eligible candidates: The voters test the capacities, capabilites of the candidates and finally elect them since there is rapport between the two.
5. Public Relationship: In view of the forthcoming elections, representatives. Keep regular contact with the constituency and people.

Indirect Elections:
In the method of indirect elections, voters elect group of members in the first instance to form an ‘Electoral college’ as an intermediary body to elect representatives. For Eg: the President of lndia and USA are elected through electoral college, which consists of the representatives. of people. Members of the Rajya sabha and Members of State Legislative Council are indirectly elected by the people.
1. Selection of best candidates:
In this method, candidates are elected by the intelligent Voters. For example, at the first instance people elect their represantatives to the electoral college and at the second instance, who in turn judiciously elect final representatives of legislature or head of the nation. This method involves double election. Elected Representatives act wisely with political knowledge.

2. Prevents unhealthy campaign:
It avoids all sorts of evils like dirty propaganda tricks, instigation of people for petty issues to divide them. For example, in the election of President of India the average voters are kept outside but only elected members of both the Houses of the Parliament partici¬pate. These intelligent and responsible members keep away from all sorts of party gimmicks.

3. Peaceful voting:
In this method, there is no scope for illegal activities or fights during the election as it happens in the direct election. In the electoral process only small numbers of enlightend voters peacefully exercise their votes judiciously. The elections are conducted according to well defined norms and values.

4. Little scope for emotions:
Elected representatives are not carried away by passions or sentiments nor can be influenced like an average voter. There is no chance for misusing sensitive issues for political gains. The higher level leaders are elected by People’s Representative’s Act with a sense of responsibility.

5. Suitable to developing nations:
Since majority of the voters are ignorant, not educated and intelligent small group of politically educated arid wise voters elect responsible and public’spirited representatives.

Question 2.
Explain the functions of Election Com¬mission of India.
Answer:
The ‘Election Commission’ is an independent, statutory body appointed by the President of India to conduct free and fair elections in India. The Article 324 to 329 in part XV deals with the composition powers and functions of election commission. The election commission conducts election to the office of the President, Vice President, union parliament, legislatures of state, union territories and local bodies.

Article 324 provides for the office of the Election Commission of India. It consists of the Chief Election Commissoner and other Election Commissioners. Till 1993 it was a single member body, later on, it became a three member body during the prime ministership of P. V.Narasimha Rao.
Powers and functions of Election Commission:

1. Prepares electoral roll and its periodical revision
2. Holds elections to parliament, state ligislatures and offices of the President and Vice-Presidents.
3. After the announcement of elections, it decides the time-table.
4. It conducts elections for vacant seats.
5. It grants recognition to political parties as national and state level parties.
6. It scrutinizes the nomination papers.
7. It allots symbols to political parties and independent candidates.
8. It appoints officers and other staff members to conduct election and make necessary arrangements.
9. It can order for repoll in any constituency or any polling booth.
10. It can withold the election results on valid grounds.
11. The President or the Governor acts on the advice or the election commission at the time of disqualification of members of the House.
12. It enforces the code of conduct for the candidates and political parties i.e, the election expenses and submission of accounts after election, environmental protection against noise pollution etc during elections.
13. As per the Representation of People’s Act (RPA) of 1950 and 1957 Election Commission of India conducts the process of election.

Question 3.
Describe the electoral reforms in India.
Answer:
Electoral Reforms in India:
The success of parliamentary democracy depends on the political stability which lies in the pure and honest electoral system. Democracy is described as ‘for the people, by the people’ of the people; Educating people politically and strengthen the democratic system, reforms in the election system is necessary.

It ensures free and fair elections through Ballot papers. Many committees were appointed by the successive governments to bring about electoral reforms.
The most important are:

1. V.K.Tarkunde committee (1974-75)
2. Dinesh Goswami committee (1990)
3. Justice V.R.Krishna Iyer committee (1994).
4. Wanchoo committee.
5. Indrajit Gupta committee (1998)
6. Justice Kuldeep Singh committee (2002)
7. iLaist committee Reports.

Based on the recommendations of these committees successive Govts have implemented the following reforms The EPIC (Electors Photo Identity Card) was introduced by the Chief Election Commissioner, T.N. Seshan (1990-1996) to conduct free and fair elections to remove evil practices like corruption and impersonation (bogus voting) etc., it was introduced in India in 1993.

The arrangements were made to issue EPIC to prevent impersonation of electors. Initially it was difficult to issue identity card to all Tnc voters due to some technical problems. But during the term of M.S. Gil the possession of EPIC by the voters was made compulsory. It is an official document issued by the election commission to all the eligible voters.

It consists of information of voters age, name, photo, gender, address, constituency, date of issue etc. The EVM (Electronic voting machine) is one of the important innovations of modem technology. It has replaced the system of ballot box and ballot papers with most effective EVM. The EVMs were introduced for the first time in 1998 in the Legislative Assembly elections of states and it was successful.

Later on in the 14th Loksabha elections, they were used all over India. E.V.M consists of the Controlling unit and Balloting unit. Both are interconnected with a cable. The balloting unit is kept in a segrgeted place where voters can exercise their votes in privacy. The controlling unit is with the polling officer; After the voter proves his identity the voter is allowed to access the Balloting unit.

The voter has to press a blue button on the Balloting unit against the candidates symbol he casts his vote. After he presses his Button of choice, there is a beeping sound indicating that the voting procedure is completed.
The advantages of an EVM are:

1. EVM can be easily operated and saves time.
2. It is simple to the voter to cast votes.
3. Quick and accurate results.
4. Economic and eco-friendly.
5. Avoids invalid votes.
6. Controls irregularities.

Question 4.
Explain the mandatory disclosure of the antecedents of the candidate.
Answer:
Mandatory disclosure of antecedents of the candidates.

1. Criminal
2. Education
3. Property

The candidates have to disclose their personal details of criminal, education and property while filing their nomination. This is to facilitate the right candidates to contest and restrict persons with criminal background. Mandatory disclosure of antecedents of a candidate includes disclosure of criminal antecedents.

The candidate has to disclose their personal details of crimes while filing their nomination. This is to facilitate that right candidates contest and restrict persons with criminal back grounds from contesting elections.
1. Criminal Antecedents:
To curb criminalization of politics the supreme court of India in 2002 gave directions to the election commission to implement and also to the parliament to amend the people’s represention Act of 1951 in December 2002. Through this act, submission of details regarding criminal antecedents are made compulsory for all the candidates along with their nomination papers.

Details of any cases pending against them in any court of India and or if they were either convicted or acquitted. The supreme court of India has decided and made it clear that candidates having criminal records are debarred from cresting election.

If it is not declared or disclosed members of Ligislature or parliament would lose their membership if they were found to be having criminal antecedents. The election commission has framed rules to restrict candidates with criminal antecedents from contesting elections.
Disqualification for criminal attecedents is provided in R.P.Act 1951. They are,

• As per the Act. A person is disqualified from contesting election only in conviction by the court of law
• Cases filed Six months before election would lead to disqualification.
• Cases in which candidates have accused with the offence and sentenced for two or more years are disqualified for election.
• With the offence proved by a court of law a person is not eligible to contest election for a period of 6 years.

2. Mandatory declaration of educational antecedents:
A candidate who is contesting for elections should mandatorily declare his educational qualifications. He/She should file an affidavit to give information relating to his educational qualifications. The candidate, being a representative of the people has to be educated and actively take part in the proceedings of the legislature, administration and in law making process. Though the constitution has not mentioned any educational to the candidates, this disclosure enables the voters to elect qualified persons.

3. Candidates contesting elections have to declare their property antecedents at the time of filing their nomination papers:
Contesting an election is an expensive affair. Persons with good education but death of funds may hesitate to contest whereas people with money power get elected and may a mass more wealth. This leads to corruption.

To curb misuse of the elected office the election commission has made it mandatory to declare the details of movable and immovable property of candidate and his family members. This disclosure will help the electrorate/voters to assess the honesty or dishonesty of the candidate.

Question 5.
Explain the nature of party system in India.
Answer:
Party system In India:
India is the largest democracy and political parties are indispensable to the system. Political parties play very significant role in the working of democratic government. They create political education. The party with a majority in declared results in an election will form the Govt.
Party system is classified as:

1. Single party system: Single party in the country. Eg: China.
2. Bi-party system: Two parties in the country. Eg: USA.
3. Multi-party system: More than two parties. Eg: India.

Nature:
The Nature of Indian party system can be traced back from the Indian National movement. Indian National Congress was founded by A.O. Hume in 1885. It was a forum to unite the people of India to fight against British Imperialism. Due to Ideological differences, Muslim League was founded in 1906. Other parties like Hindu maha sabha, Communist Party of India, Forward Block and Praja Socialist Party etc.

emerged in successive years. Later, in post-independence period, Jan sangh/Janata party, Bhartiya Janata Party, Janata Dal, Nationalist Congress Party, have emerged according to the needs.of the time and they started to work to the power.
1. Extra constitutional growth:
According to Art-19 of the constitution all citizens have the freedom to form association, all citizens have the freedom to form associations or unions. Political parties are established on the basis of this liberty. India can have any number of political parties.’ Political parties have no constitutional base.

2. Prevalence of Multi-party system:
India is a different country with many religions, tribes, languages, culture and traditions. This heterogeneity leads to the emergence of many political parties.

3. Spirit and merger:
Is common in Indian party system due to ideological differences, egoism, power hunger etc.

4. End of single party era:
The congress was the sole party to be in power till 1977. But after the emergency in 1975 – 1977 small parties emerged against the congress party.

5. Dissident activities:
Meaness of leaders and members of the party, like personal attitudes, favoritism nepotism lead to dissident activities carving way for political instability.

6. Defection:
Selected members change political parties for personal benefits and differences of opinion. K relins democratic values and destabilizes govt.

7. Leader worship:
Political parties in India emphasize in the leaders than the ideologies of the parties. The leader decides the destiny of the political party Eg: Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi of congress, AB. Vajpayee of BJP. The leaders with their charisma dominate the whole party.

8. Alliances without principles:
Regional parties did not have any influence during the first general election. During the 1980’s/they emerged very strong and dominated the political scenario. Eg: DMK, AIADMK, Telugu Desam, Shivsena, National Conference, AGP; JD(S), RJD, SJP, BJD and other parties playing a significant role in the formation oF government.

9. Religious, Lingual and Regionalism:
The basis of political parties in India is religion, Language, regionalism and the like. Eg: Muslim league, Akalidaf shivsena, DMK, AIDMK, M.E.S (Maharastra Ekikarana Samithi), Telangana Rastriyasamithi (TRS) and others. In spite of the mles of the election commission, such political parties exist.

10. Leftist and rightist parties:
Party system in Indian consists of Leftist and Rightist ideologies. Eg: CPI, CPI(m), Forward Block, RDI, Socialist parties who have belief in revolutionary ideology and drastic changes in the system. Parties like Congress, BJP, SP, NCP, BSP, RJD, JD(a), JD(s), and others believe in moderate changes in the system

11. The era of coalition:
When no single political party secures absolute majority, like minded political parties come together and join the single largest party to form coalition government; the era of coalition started during 1977 when Janata Party came to power headed by Sri Moraijee Desai as Prime Minister at the centre along with other parties followed by National Front, United Front, NDA, UPA and the like.

Question 6.
Describe the functions of political parties.
Answer:
Functions political parties:
1. Preparation of Election Manifesto:
The election agenda is arranged through manifesto. Its main intention is capturing power with popular support. It reflects the ideological commitments of the party, which include voters requirements like good governance through infrastructure development.

2. Selection of the candidate:
The selection of best candidate is made on the basis of popularity, acceptability, and responsieness to the grievances of people usually, all parties prepare the list of such candidates to win the election.

3. Political education and awareness:
Political parties impart political education to the people and make them realize their responsibilities. The ideologies along with the previous achievements are highlighted to attract the voters during the electioneering. Through this, voters compare and contrast and decide their future course of action. They get political education and awarenees about national and regional issues.

4. To contest elections:
Political parties furnish proper filing of nominations of their candidates by providing ‘B form’. ‘B forms’ are provided to their official candidates. Nominations are filed in the respective jurisdictional office of the Returning Officer.

5. Election Campaign:
Nominated candidates are supported by their parties in all possible ways. Parties provide election expenses. Parties and their leaders use public platforms for speeches and propaganda and through electronic and mass media.

6. Formation of Government:
After the decleration of results the party which secures majority forms the Government. The administration is carried on within the constitutional frame work along with implementing the assurances mentioned in the manifesto at the time of election. It also maintains discipline with the party by imposing party norms.

7. Acts as opposition party:
The political parties which fail to secure majority in the election act as opposition parties. They apply the break to the unconstitutional decisions and policies of ruling party and help to streamline the administration. The opposition party is always ready to step ipto the ruling party’s shoes by highlighting the wrong decisions in the administration It acts as ‘watch dog’ of democracy.

8. Formation of public opinion:
Political parties act as the best agencies in formulating public opinion. The achievements of ruling party are published and highlighted through media and public platforms, opposition parties organise rallies, conduct road shows and seminars to expose the failures of the ruling party. Such activities of the parties enlighten the masses and lead to the formation of healthy public opinion.

9. Bridge between the Government and the people:
Political parties act as bridge between the govt., and the people. The leaders of the parties try to reach the people through policies and programmes. They draw attention of the government towards the problems of the people and get remedies.

10. Promotes the national interest:
It is the task of all the political parties to protect the unity and integrity of the nation. Whenever there is threat both frorn within and external, the parties have to unite themselves keeping a part their ideological arid parochial differences.

2nd PUC Political Science Elections and Party System in India Additional Questions and Answers

I. One Mark Questions.

Question 1.
Why are elections necessary?
Answer:
Election are necessary because it enables the people of a nation to participate in the political activities of the state and exercise their political rights.

Question 2.
Since when are elections in operation?
Answer:
From 17th Cemetery.

Question 3.
Name any one type of election?
Answer:
General election.

Question 4.
Name any one method of Election.
Answer:
Direct election.

Question 5.
What is an ‘electoral college’?
Answer:
‘Electoral college’ is an intermediary body of a group of members to elect representatives.

Question 6.
Who was the first chief election commissioner?
Answer:
Sukumar sen (23 Mar 1950 19 December 1958) was the first CEC.

Question 7.
Who is the current C.E.C?
Answer:
V.S. Sampath kumar (11 June 2012) is the current CEC.

Question 8.
Mention any one function of the election commission.
Answer:
Preparation of electoral roll and its periodic revision.

Question 9.
Mention any one committee appointed for electoral reforms.
Answer:
V.K. Tarkunde committee. (1974-1975).

Question 10.
When were the EVMs introduced?
Answer:
In 1998 legislative assembly elections.

Question 11.
Mention the mandatory disclosure of antecedents.
Answer:

• Criminal
• Education
• Property.

Question 12.
Which committee was formed to look into state funding and when?
Answer:
The Indrajit Gupta committee in 1998.

Question 13.
How is the party system classified?
Answer:

1. Single party system
2. Bi-party system
3. Multi-party system

Question 14.
Mention any one function of a political party?
Answer:
Preperation of election manifesto.

Question 15.
Which was the first coalition government in India? When?
Answer:
The coalition government of the Janata Party in 1977.

II. Two Marks Questions.

Question 1.
When is mid-term election conducted?
Answer:
Mid-term election is conducted when the House is dissolved before the completion of its term.

Question 2.
Write about one feature of Indirect election.
Answer:
Selection of best candidate in this method candidates are elected by the intelligent voters. Elected representatives act wisely with political knowledge.

Question 3.
Name any two regional political parties.
Answer:
The DMK, JDS are regional parties.

Question 4.
Name any two National political parties.
Answer:
The INC and BJP are National Parties.

Question 5.
Where do election candidates file their nomination?
Answer:
They file their nominations in their respective jurisdictional office of the Retirmomg officer.

III. Five Marks Questions.

Question 1.
What is Defection?
Answer:
Defection means an elected representative who defects to another party without resigning his membership for benefits. Defector is elected at one party and enjoys power in another party. The word defection is also called as ‘Floor Crossing’ in UK and Carpet Crossing’ in Nigeria. The term ‘defection’ is used in India. Defection is commonly known as ‘Horse trading’. Defectors are also called ‘Fence-sitters’ or ‘Turncoats’.