Ch: 4 Electoral Politics (Questions and Answers)

Important Very Short Questions and Answers

1. Why are elections necessary in a democracy?

- Elections are essential in a democracy as they allow people to select their representatives, evaluate
government performance, and express policy preferences. They serve as a mechanism for public participation in
governance and ensure accountability from elected officials. This process fosters a sense of involvement and
ownership among citizens regarding their government and its actions.

2. What makes elections democratic?

- Democratic elections are characterized by several key features: the independence of the Election Commission,
the ability for all eligible citizens to vote, a fair representation of different societal sections, and the enforcement
of a Code of Conduct during elections. These elements ensure that elections are conducted without undue
influence from the ruling party, allowing for genuine competition among candidates.

3. What role does the Election Commission play in India?

- The Election Commission of India is a powerful and independent body responsible for overseeing the conduct
of elections. It has the authority to manage all aspects of elections, from announcing schedules to declaring
results. The Commission implements election laws, oversees the preparation of voters' lists, and ensures that
candidates adhere to the Code of Conduct. Its independence from the government is crucial for maintaining the
integrity and fairness of elections.

4. What are common electoral malpractices reported in elections?

- Common electoral malpractices include the inclusion of false names and exclusion of genuine names on the
voters' list, misuse of government resources by ruling parties, excessive financial influence by wealthy
candidates, and voter intimidation or rigging on polling day. While these practices are concerning, they do not
usually undermine the overall democratic process.

5. How does the Election Commission ensure free and fair elections?

- The Election Commission ensures free and fair elections by exercising its powers to regulate the conduct of
elections. This includes monitoring the election campaign, ensuring the neutrality of government officials
during elections, and taking action against violations of election laws. The Commission can order repolls if it
determines that the elections were not conducted fairly.

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6. What are the stages involved in the electoral process?

- The electoral process involves several key stages:

1. Drawing of constituency boundaries

2. Making of voters’ lists

3. Filing nominations by candidates

4. Election campaigns

5. Casting of votes

6. Counting of votes
7. Declaring election results
8. Ordering of re-poll if necessary

These stages ensure a structured approach to conducting elections and maintaining transparency.

7. Why is it important to keep the voters' list updated?

- Keeping the voters' list updated is crucial to ensure that every eligible citizen can vote and that the list
accurately reflects the current population. This helps prevent electoral fraud by ensuring that only legitimate
voters participate in the electoral process. Regular updates account for changes such as relocations and
demographic shifts within constituencies.

8. How does the independence of the Election Commission benefit democracy?

- The independence of the Election Commission is vital for democracy as it prevents the ruling party from
exerting influence over electoral processes. This independence allows the Commission to operate impartially,
ensuring that all candidates have a fair opportunity to compete and that elections are conducted without bias or
coercion. This accountability is key to maintaining public trust in the electoral system.

Important Short Questions and Answers

1. What makes elections in India democratic?

- Elections in India are considered democratic because they are conducted by an independent Election
Commission, which enjoys substantial powers to ensure free and fair elections. The Chief Election
Commissioner, appointed by the President, operates independently, making it difficult for the government to
influence the Commission’s decisions. The Election Commission oversees all aspects of elections, implements a
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Code of Conduct, and can reprimand the government for any electoral violations. This independence is crucial
for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process, allowing voters to express their preferences without undue
influence or intimidation.

2. What are the stages involved in the electoral process?

The electoral process includes several key stages:

- Making of Voter Lists : Ensuring accurate and updated records of eligible voters.

- Announcement of Election Schedule : Officially declaring when elections will take place.

- Filing of Nominations : Candidates submit their nominations to contest in elections.

- Election Campaign : Candidates and parties promote their agendas to attract voters.

- Casting of Votes : Voters cast their ballots on polling day.

- Counting of Votes : The votes are tallied to determine the election results.
- Declaration of Results : Official results are announced.

- Ordering of Re-poll : If necessary, the Election Commission can order a re-poll in certain areas.

3. What are the common issues faced during elections?

Several issues can undermine the fairness of elections:

- Inclusion of false names in the voters’ list and exclusion of genuine names.

- Misuse of government resources and officials by the ruling party.

- Excessive campaign spending by wealthy candidates.

- Intimidation and coercion of voters on polling day.

While these problems are prevalent, they do not typically prevent elections from achieving their intended
democratic purpose.

4. How does the Election Commission ensure fair elections?

The Election Commission ensures fair elections through various mechanisms:

- Monitoring the conduct of elections and issuing guidelines to political parties.

- Punishing violations of the Code of Conduct.

- Controlling the deployment of government officials during elections.

- Ordering repolls in cases where the voting process is deemed unfair.

This authority helps maintain a level playing field for all candidates and parties.
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5. What challenges do voters face in Indian elections?

Voters in India face several challenges:

- Limited knowledge about candidates and their policies, affecting informed decision-making.

- Family politics, where nominations are often reserved for relatives of influential political families.

- The dominance of candidates with criminal backgrounds, which can intimidate other competitors.

- A lack of genuine choice when major parties present similar policies and platforms.

These issues highlight ongoing concerns regarding the quality of democracy in India .

6. What role does popular participation play in elections?

- Popular participation is crucial in elections, measured by voter turnout. A high turnout indicates a healthy
democratic process where citizens actively engage in selecting their representatives. In India, voter participation
has generally been robust compared to trends in other democracies, reflecting a commitment to the electoral
process despite challenges .

7. What reforms are suggested for improving Indian elections?

Reforms suggested for enhancing the electoral process in India include:

- Implementing stricter regulations on campaign financing to curtail the influence of money.

- Increasing transparency in candidate nominations to reduce family and criminal influences.

- Improving the accuracy and accessibility of voter lists to ensure all eligible voters can participate.

- Enhancing voter education to help citizens make informed choices during elections.

These reforms aim to ensure that elections are more inclusive, transparent, and fair .

8. How do election results reflect public preference?

- Election results in India are generally seen as reflective of the public’s preferences, as the majority of elected
representatives emerge from competitive electoral processes. However, deeper analysis reveals that voter
preferences may be influenced by various factors, including media coverage, party campaigns, and local issues.
Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into the overall health of the democratic process .

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Important Long Questions and Answers

1. Why are elections necessary and useful in a democracy?

- Elections are fundamental to democracy as they enable citizens to select their representatives and express their
preferences regarding governance. They provide a mechanism for the electorate to hold their leaders
accountable, allowing voters to evaluate political performance and policy decisions. Moreover, elections foster
competition among political parties and candidates, encouraging them to address the needs and concerns of the
populace to gain votes. This process ensures that even parties motivated primarily by the desire for power must
engage with the electorate to succeed, thereby indirectly serving the public interest. Additionally, elections
empower citizens to indicate their policy preferences, reinforcing the concept of representative governance.

2. How do Indian elections reflect democratic principles?

- Indian elections are characterized by regularity, transparency, and inclusiveness, which are essential aspects of
democracy. Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha elections are conducted every five years, ensuring that the electorate
has the opportunity to choose their representatives periodically. The process involves delineating electoral
constituencies, where voters select one representative from their area, reflecting a structured approach to
representation. The Election Commission of India plays a critical role in overseeing these elections, ensuring
they are free and fair by enforcing rules and managing the electoral process. However, challenges remain, such
as the influence of money in politics and the dominance of certain political families, which can undermine the
democratic nature of elections.

3. What are the challenges faced in ensuring free and fair elections in India?
- Despite the framework established for democratic elections, several challenges persist in India. The high cost
of elections can be a burden, as evidenced by the substantial expenditure incurred during elections, which raises
concerns about the influence of wealth on electoral outcomes. Additionally, issues such as the presence of
candidates with criminal backgrounds, the underrepresentation of women, and the lack of genuine choices for
voters, as major parties often present similar policies, further complicate the democratic process. The
monopolization of electoral tickets by political families also limits opportunities for new candidates, making it
difficult for smaller parties and independents to compete effectively.

4. What role does the Election Commission of India play in the electoral process?

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- The Election Commission of India (ECI) is pivotal in maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. It is an
independent body responsible for administering elections, from the announcement of polls to the declaration of
results. The ECI ensures compliance with the Model Code of Conduct, which governs the behavior of political
parties and candidates during elections. It has the authority to enforce guidelines to prevent the misuse of
governmental power and can reprimand the government for any lapses. By overseeing the electoral process and
ordering re-polls when necessary, the ECI helps safeguard the democratic nature of elections in India .

5. How do voter turnout rates reflect the quality of elections in India?

- Voter turnout is a critical indicator of the health of a democracy and the effectiveness of its electoral process.
In India, voter turnout has fluctuated over the years, but it remains relatively high compared to many Western
democracies. This reflects a robust engagement of citizens in the electoral process. However, declining turnout
in certain demographics or regions can signal disillusionment with the electoral system or a lack of genuine
choices, suggesting areas where reforms may be needed to enhance participation and ensure that elections are
perceived as free and fair .

Important multiple-choice questions (MCQs) :

1. Why are elections considered essential in a democracy?

a) To select representatives

b) To evaluate government performance

c) To allow voters to express their preferences

d) All of the above

Answer: d) All of the above

2. Which body conducts elections in India?

a) The Parliament
b) Election Commission of India

c) The President

d) State Legislatures

Answer: b) Election Commission of India

3. How often are Lok Sabha elections held in India?

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a) Every two years

b) Every three years

c) Every four years

d) Every five years

Answer: d) Every five years

4. What is a by-election?

a) An election for all constituencies

b) An election to fill a vacancy

c) An election for local bodies
d) An election to change party leaders

Answer: b) An election to fill a vacancy

5. What does the Election Commission ensure?

a) Fair representation

b) Free and fair elections

c) Public participation
d) Political party funding

Answer: b) Free and fair elections

6. Which of the following is NOT a common malpractice in elections?

a) False names in voters' lists

b) Use of government resources

c) Fair campaigning

d) Intimidation of voters

Answer: c) Fair campaigning

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7. What percentage of sitting MPs or MLAs typically lose elections in India?

a) 10%

b) 25%

c) 50%

d) 75%

Answer: c) 50%

8. Which of these is a reason to say that Indian elections are democratic?

a) Only one party wins consistently

b) Everyone above 18 can vote
c) No independent election commission

d) High levels of voter intimidation

Answer: b) Everyone above 18 can vote.

9. What is the primary purpose of updating the voters' list?

a) To increase voter turnout

b) To ensure fair representation

c) To prevent electoral fraud

d) To simplify the voting process

Answer: d) To prevent electoral fraud

10. Why are some constituencies reserved for SCs and STs?

a) To ensure equal opportunity

b) To increase political participation

c) To provide representation for marginalized communities

d) All of the above

Answer: d) All of the above

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11. What is an electoral constituency?

a) A political party

b) A geographic area where voters elect a representative

c) A voting system

d) A type of election

Answer: b) A geographic area where voters elect a representative

12. What happens if polling is found unfair?

a) The results are declared invalid
b) A re-poll is ordered

c) The Election Commission resigns

d) The ruling party changes

Answer: b) A re-poll is ordered

13. Which statement is true about Indian elections?

a) They are completely free of malpractices

b) The ruling party never loses

c) Electoral outcomes reflect popular preferences

d) All elections are contested by the same parties

Answer: c) Electoral outcomes reflect popular preferences

14. What is the role of election agents?

a) To assist the Election Commission

b) To monitor the polling process

c) To campaign for their candidates

d) To count votes

Answer: b) To monitor the polling process

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15. Which document outlines the guidelines for political parties during elections?

a) Election Manifesto

b) Model Code of Conduct

c) Voters' List

d) Election Results

Answer: b) Model Code of Conduct

16. How much did the Indian government spend on Lok Sabha elections in 2004?
a) Rs. 500 crores

b) Rs. 1,300 crores

c) Rs. 2,500 crores

d) Rs. 3,000 crores

Answer: b) Rs. 1,300 crores

17. What is the main criticism against the Election Commission?

a) Lack of independence

b) Excessive power
c) Inefficiency in conducting elections

d) Insufficient funding

Answer: a) Lack of independence

18. What kind of electoral practices are reported in Indian elections?

a) High voter turnout

b) Use of money and muscle power

c) Fair representation of all parties

d) Strict adherence to the Model Code of Conduct

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Answer: b) Use of money and muscle power

19. Which of the following is a feature of democratic elections?

a) Limited voter participation

b) Regular intervals for elections

c) No opposition parties allowed

d) Fixed party funding

Answer: b) Regular intervals for elections

20. What is one way to verify the fairness of an election?

a) Observing the campaign strategies

b) Checking the independence of election officials

c) Counting the number of voters

d) Reviewing party manifestos

Answer: b) Checking the independence of election officials

Important Assertion and Reasoning Based MCQs from Electoral Politics :

1. Assertion: Elections are essential in a representative democracy.

Reason: Elections allow the voters to choose their representatives at regular intervals.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

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2. Assertion: The Election Commission of India has wide-ranging powers.

Reason: The Chief Election Commissioner is independent of the government once appointed.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

3. Assertion: Electoral malpractices can undermine the democratic process.

Reason: Many reports of electoral malpractices indicate systematic issues in elections.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

4. Assertion: The losing parties in India typically accept the electoral verdict.
Reason: This behavior reflects a strong democratic culture.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

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 b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

5. Assertion: The Election Commission can order a repoll if polling is deemed unfair.

Reason: This power is essential for maintaining the integrity of elections.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.
b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

6. Assertion: Family politics is a concern in Indian elections.

Reason: Many candidates are chosen based on their political connections.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

7. Assertion: Voter intimidation is a significant issue during elections.

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 Reason: It often leads to disenfranchisement of certain voter segments.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

8. Assertion: Keeping the voters' list updated is critical for fair elections.
Reason: An outdated voters’ list can lead to disenfranchisement.

a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion.

b) Both assertion and reason are true, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion.

c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.

d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.

Answer: a) Both assertion and reason are true, and the reason is the correct explanation for the
assertion

Important Fill-in-the-Blanks :

1. In a democracy, it is neither possible nor necessary for people to govern _______.

Answer: directly

2. The most common form of democracy in our times is for the people to govern through their _______.
Answer: representatives

3. The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is appointed by the _______ of India.

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 Answer: President

4. The Election Commission of India takes decisions on every aspect of conduct and control of elections from
the _______ of elections to the declaration of results.

Answer: announcement

5. A large amount of money is spent in conducting elections in India, with the government spending about Rs.
_______ crores in the Lok Sabha elections in 2004.

Answer: 1,300

6. When the Election Commission believes polling was not fair, they can order a _______.
Answer: repoll

7. Elections enable people to evaluate the performance of the _______.

Answer: judiciary

8. In India, everyone above the age of _______ has a right to vote.

Answer: 18

9. The election process includes activities such as releasing election manifestos, counting of votes, and _______
of votes.
Answer: casting

10. Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that there is a fair representation of all sections of our
_______.

Answer: society

Additional Details :

- Democratic Elections: The chapter emphasizes that a key aspect of democratic elections is the regular
holding of elections every five years for the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha, with the term of all elected
representatives coming to an end after this period.
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- Role of the Election Commission: The Election Commission of India is highlighted as a powerful body
that ensures free and fair elections by managing various election-related activities and enforcing the
Code of Conduct.

- Election Costs: It is noted that the total expenditure for elections by the government, parties, and
candidates can be significantly high, often leading to debates on whether such spending is justified in a
developing country.

- Electoral Malpractices: The chapter discusses various electoral malpractices, such as the inclusion of
false names in voters’ lists and misuse of government facilities, indicating that while these issues exist,
they do not typically undermine the overall democratic process.

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