CBSE Class 11

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 16 Citizenship Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Citizenship NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 16

Citizenship Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 16

Question 1.
Citizenship as full and equal membership of a political community involves both rights and obligations. Which rights could citizens expect to enjoy in most democratic state today? What kind of obligation will they have to their state and fellow citizens?
Answer:
There was a time when privileges rights and key responsibilities were limited to the limited sections of the society who could be considered worthy of it on the basis of caste, hereditary and socio-economic status. Rarest members of the society were considered incapable of rights as well as the obligations. The society was totally compartmentalised. Now the total environment is changed and no society is so hierarchic due to increasing mobility and means of communication.

In this situation the understanding of the idea of citizenship has gone under change. Now the citizenship has been accepted in its broader sense in its meaning, areas and its scope. It provides large number of people, irrespective of their caste, colour and socio, economic status, the full’and 6c(6a1f membership bf the political community with corresponding rights and obligations.

In modem liberal democratic systems the citizens are given number of rights and duties as per the formulation of T.H. Marshall who has given three kinds of rights

• i.e. Civil Rights
• Political Rights
• Social Rights.

Civil Rights are related with individual’s life and liberty. Political Rights enable people to participate in the political process and process of governance. Social Rights are related with individual’s access to education and employment.

State and all the political communities expect certain duties and obligations from the citizens which are related with law and order, morality, descency, national integration, national service, maintenance of culture and historical monuments and strengthening communal harmony.

Question 2.
All citizens may be granted equal rights but all may not be able to equally exercise them. Explain.
Answer:
Most of the societies have been organised in hierarchic order built on the people’sstatus deteimined on their capabilities and capacities, which may be different as per their socio, economic environment and availability of basic needs and facilities.

In the changed and expanded meaning of the concept of citizenship and in the democratic framework of polity, more and more people are involved in the affairs of the state as citizens. As citizens they are entitled to number of rights, duties and related obligations. In the wake of universal citizenship, people’s participation and involvement is improved manifold.

To ensure equal rights and opportunities for all the citizens may be granted but it will not be a simple matter. Different groups of people may have different needs problems, capabilities and capacities because of their socio-economic environment. The rights for citizens of different group may conflict with the rights of another group. Equal rights also does not mean uniform policies for different groups. To make people more and more equal, the different needs and claims of people, would have to be taken into account.

Another important fact is that aiU the citizens may be granted equal rights but it is not necessary all the citizens will exercise them and enjoy ‘ them equally. Indian Constitution has provided number of fundamental rights to its citizens but only microscopic section of the society has necessary capacities and capabilities to avail them.

Question 3.
Write a short note on any two struggles for full enjoyment of citizen rights which have taken place in India in recent years. Which rights were being claimed in each case?
Answer:
We can identify the following struggles which were undertaken for full enjoyment of citizens rights jn recent years, whose purpose was to change public opinion about their needs.
1. Women’s movement
2. Dalit’s movement

1. Women’s movement : Although India got independence on 15th August, 1947 yet majority of women remained dependent and victim of injustice and discrimination. They were considered inferior to man and incapable to do anything worthwhile. The plight of rural woman was more grim.

But with the spread of literacy and democratic process, more and more women got aware of their capacities and capabilities, which led to the woman’s movement. These women movement attracted the attention of public as well as government which helped in influencing the policies of the government in their favour.

Now, as a result of women’s movement women have entered in all the fields of National life. There is a movement for women empowerment and protection their rights. In India National Women Commission has been set for the promotion of women interests and to ensure their security.

2. Dalit’s movement : Dalits have been another exploited class of Indian society not only before independence but also after independence. They also have been victim of injustice and exploitation for a very long time. In the wake of several social reformer movements and political awakening in the democratic framework of the government Dalit movements also started at different level which helped in changing the scenario

Government took the causes of Dalits at top priority. Reservation is made for them in government jobs as well as in education and politics. Like women, Dalits seats have also been reserved at grass root level also besides in Assemblies and Parliament. As a result of these Dalit movement, they l have now come into the national mainstream and have integrated into the society. They are occupying a respectable positions in society, politics and administration.

Question 4.
What are some of the problems faced by refugees? In > what ways could the concept of global citizenship benefit them? ‘
Answer:
Refugees are the persons who become stateless and try to ;-: settle in other states or are in search of their settlement. These refugees become stateless either due to war, or natural calamities like famine, floods etc. Generally people become refugees in neighbouring countries. . The refugees face number of social, economic and humanitarian problems.

If no state is willing to accept them, they cannot return home ‘ because they have already become homeless. They are homeless and stateless in complete uncertainty. They are forced to live in camps as illegal migrants. Often they cannot legally work and educate their children.

Their children also face uncertain future. They do not own any property. Their problem is so grave that UN has appointed a High – Commissioner for Refugees to try and help them. In 1947 during division of India thousands of people had become Refugees.

All the people (refugees) cannot be absorbed by any state. In fact . this problem is confronting not only to the Refugees but also to the whole world community.The idea of Global citizenship can certainly solve this problem at least to some extent, if not totally. N ew means of communication such as the internet, TV and cell phones have made the idea of global ‘ citizenship more acceptable and feasible.

Supporters of the global citizenship argue that although a world community and global society does not yet exist, people feel linked to each other across national boundaries. People of the international community come together in any kind of natural calamity in any part of the world. This feeling of togetherness strengthen the idea of global citizenship which will go a ‘ long way in solving the problem of refugees.

Question 5.
Migration of people to different regions within the country is often resisted by the local inhabitants. What are some of the contributions that the migrants could make to the local economy?
Answer:
The process of migration and resulting number of refugees with their related problems have evoked sharp reactions which we see in locals. They consider them as their competitors. A division soon develops between insiders and outsiders. Outsiders are seen as threat to their life.

Similar trends are visible in cities regions and even different nations. Palestinian people have not yet settled. Similar is the dispute in Sri Lanka. Local people make every effort to check the entry of outsiders. We see slogans in India like Mumbai for Mumbaiwalas, Haryana is for Haryanvis. North-South feelings are also developed. The theory of son of soil is also developed in this context.

This situation of confrontation between the insides and outsiders, locals and refugees have given rize to the need of full and equal membership for every one. Number of coqflicts are reported from North East states, Mumbai and Punjab. Biharis have migrated to different parts of the country in search of job, where they have created riot between the Beharis and the locals.

The migration of people from one part of the state to another part is search of jobs and business has both negative as well as positive aspects. They have generated rift between insiders and outsiders or they may have posed threat to jobs and civic facilities like education, health, water and electricity but they have positive aspect also. Such migrated people are generally hard workers and make useful contribution in the economy of the state where they work as outside workers.

Labourers, workers and specialist workers are working in different states and are making useful contributions and names. Unskilled workers from UP, Bihar and Bengal are earning their livelihood in Haryana, Western UP and Punjab which they are unable to earn in their homes. Some people even travel outside the country.

Markets for skilled workers have developed in different part of the country. I T. professionals (Computer Engineers) are doing good jobs in Bangalore and nurses from Kerela are serving in all the states of the country. They are doing useful and valuable service of mankind without considering to which state they belong.In the booming building industries people and road development, skilled and unskilled workers are doing jobs for them and the country. In our country right of movement is granted by the constitution which is proving very useful.

Question 6.
“Democratic citizenship is a project rather than an accomplished fact even in countries like India which grant equal citizenship.” Discuss some of the issues regarding citizenshi being raised in India today.
Answer:
Ideal definition of citizenship implies full and equal membership of a political community. This defination becomes more and more desirable in a democratic political community. It is a matter of satisfaction that lot of awareness regarding democratic citizenship i e. full and equal membership is generated in most of the countries of the world, yet lot of ground is yet to be covered to achieve the objective of full and equal citizenship in practice.

Therefore it is rightly said that the idea of democratic citizenship is still a project rather than an accomplished fact even in a democratic political community like India which has travelled more than 59 years of democratic electoral politics based on adult Franchise and people’s participation.

The Constitution adopted an essentially democratic and inclusive ‘ citizenship. In India, citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, registration and naturalisation. The rights and obligations of citizens are listed out in the Constitution. It is also provided that state should not discriminate against citizens or any of them. Such inclusive rights have also not produced the desired results.

The Women movements, the Dalit movements increasing gulf between the rich and poor represent the prevailing situation of compartments of social groups. New issues are constantly being raised as societies change and new demands are made by groups who feel marginalised and alienated from the main stream of the society. In a democratic state these demands have to be attended for the integrated society.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 15 Rights Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Rights NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 15

Rights Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 15

Question 1.
What are rights and why they are important? What are the bases on which claims to rights can be made?
Answer:
Rights are the socio, economic conditions, circumstances, demands and claims which we put before the society and state for our development. There are demands which we claim as a human being and as a citizen of a state. Infact one of the grounds on which rights have been claimed is that they represent conditions, socio-economic and political facilities which we consider very necessary of leading a qualitative and dignified life.

Rights are the creation of society’ and collective life. Rights are expectations from each other. No Right can be considered in isolation. In collective life in the society, rights cannot be absolute. They can be availed and enjoyed in relativity and responsibility. Every right carry the responsibility.

Rights and duties and responsibilities are indispensable part and side of each other. One’s right is another’s obligation. Rights are those conditions of life which have been demanded di fferently at different point of times as per the level of development and awareness.

Rights’ are necessary circumstances and conditions which are needed for the alround development of the people. These are the facilities which are necessary for welfare of the people and for leading a descent and dignified life. Another ground on which rights have been claimed is that they are necessary for our well-being.

Rights enable the development of man is skill and talents. Some rights are very basic and fundamental we can say that rights are the environmental circumstances and conditions which are available in group life and which are necessary for our development and welfare.

Question 2.
On what grounds are some rights considered to be universal is nature? Identify three rights which your consider universal. Give reasons.
Answer:
Although all the rights are necessary and important as living conditions but certain rights are considered universal because they are demanded and expected by all the people of all the ages irrespective of their habitations and civilisation. These rights are fundamental for human existence. As explained earlier rights are those basic conditions which are considered to be necessary for leading a respectable and dignified life. In fact these rights are the conditions which act as the source of self-respect and dignity for human beings. Following rights are considered to be universal:

• Right to livelihood.
• Freedom of expression
•  Right to education.

1. Right to Livelihood
One’s livelihood is the bases of leading and living of life. Therefore it is very important and necessary and universal. If one is getting gainful employment, it will give him economic independence and it will promote his dignity and status. When one needs, particularly economic needs, are fulfilled our talents and skills are exploited and polished.

2. Freedom of Expression
Right of Expression gives us the opportunity to express ourselves in different way which will make us creative and original. We may express ourselves by writing, speaking or in any artistic manner. Right of Expression is the base of democratic culture and democratic system of government. Right of expression builds the personality of man.

3. Right to Education
Right of Education helps us in developing our mental, moral and psychological capacities. It gives us useful skills and enables us to make better choices in life, ft is therefore Right to Educations is also considered as universal right.

Question 3.
Describe briefly some of the new rights, claims which are being put forward in our country today for example the rights of tribal people to protect their habitat and way of life, or the rights of children against bonded labour.
Answer:
Today’s world is world of democratic environment and increasing awareness and conciousness about the culture, caste, colour, region, religion and occupations. The alround development is related with their rights of education, culture, and religion. It is therefore people are being given rights in these new areas like, education, culture, children’s rights, women’s rights, old age people’s rights, human rights; labourer’s rights, farmer’s rights, environmental rights etc.

Today’s societies are general ly the plural society in which the citizens are given right to develop and protect their socio, cultural habitat. In Indian Constitution Fundamental Right of education and culture is given which gives right to the people of different regions to develop and maintain their cultural identities.

They have definite pattern of habitation, they have definite dress, traditions, festivals and other celebrations. They have right to promote their culture through education. Children are given right against exploitation to remove the age old social evils like bonded labour. Children are given fundamental rights in this respect.

Question 4.
Differentiate between political, economic and cultural rights. Give examples of each kind of right.
Answer:
Although people need different conditions and facilities which they claim as rights but socio-economic and cultural and political rights are considered most important for alround development of the people universally. Political rights are those rights, facilities and circumstances through which people aie given right of individual development and participation in democratic process. Followings are some important political rights:

• Equality before law
• Right of expression
• Right to vote
• Right to be elected
• Right to elect the representative
• Right to form the associations
• Right to form the political parties.

Economic Rights
Economic Rights are those living conditions and circumstances which are needed for man’s material development i.e. food, clothes, rest and employment. Economic rights also includes adequate wages to meet their needs and reasonable conditions of work, political rights and economic rights are corelated. Main economic rights are as under:

• Right to work
• Right of having reasonable conditions of work
• Right of Employment
• Right of adequate wages
• Right of leisure
• Right of minimum needs like housing, food, clothings etc.
• Right of property
• Right of medical facilities.

Cultural Rights
Besides the economic and pol itical rights cultural rights are equal ly important for human development and dignified life and emotional, psychological and moral development. Followings are the main cultural rights:

• Right to have primary education
• Right to have local dress, festivals, worship and celebrations
• Right to develop educational institutions for the promotion of local dialect, language and geography.

Question 5.
Rights place some limits on the authority of the state. Explain with examples.
Answer:
Since Rights are the demands and claims from the state, it is natural that, it poses certain obligations on the state to provide definite conditions and facilities for the citizens for their welfare and development. It puts limits on the working of the state. The rights of the citizens seek to ensure that the authority of the state is exercised without violating the sanctity of individual’s life and liberty.

No doubt the powerful institution with its sovereign powers but relationship in me citizens determine the nature of sovereignty. State does not exist for its own sake but for the people. It is people who matters more and it is their development and welfare which is the criterion of the sovereignty of the state. The rulers of the state are responsible and accountable for their action to the people.

Law regulates the relationship between the individual and the state. It is the duty of the state to provide necessary conditions which are claimed and demanded by the people for their development and welfare. The state has to take decision in this regard but its authority is definitely checked and limited.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 14 Social Justice Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Social Justice NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14

Social Justice Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 14

Question 1.
What does it mean to give each person his/her due? How has the meaning of “giving each his due” changed over time?
Answer:
There has been different meaning and understanding about the concept of justice in different points of time and in different socio, economic and political environment. The basic essential of the word justice has been view ‘jus’ which means just one’s due. But what is one’s due has been understood differently in different societies of different times.

For example, at one,point of time women enjoyed prime position in the society but afterwards they were denied that respectable ‘ place and were given the wretched place. Still in liberal, democratic and developmental world they are is search of their due place.

Now the essentials of the idea of justice have been enumerated like, truth, honesty, impartiality, equal opportunities, equal behaviour and fulfillment of basic needs. Plato sought and understood the situation of justice in the performance of each class, their respective duty in their own jurisdiction and non-interference in other’s matters.

Aristotle justified slaveiy on the basis of utility. Therefore he took justice in master doing the duty for the slave and servant doing his duty of serving the master. In desire concept of the right of the kings it was considered that it is the duty of the people to perform their religious duty by obeying the king.

In Marxist thinking the concept of justice undergone and the idea of one’s due place undergone change. He saw capitalist system based on injustice and give different essentials of justice. As a part of his scheme of justice he suggested collective ownerships the means of production and distribution and the minimum basic needs of each person should be fulfilled.

In the present age some other attributes of the concept of justice have been added. Justice today is explained not only in socio, economic basis but also moraj, psychological and spiritual and human sense also.

Question 2.
Briefly discuss the three principles of justice outlined in the chapter? Explain each with examples.
Answer:
As discussed above giving one’s due has been the cardinal principle of the idea of justice but what is one’s due has been viewed differently in different periods A number of different principles have been put toward in this regard, these are as under

1. Equal treatment for equals
2. Proportionate justice
3. Recognition of special needs.

1. Equal Treatment for Equals
Equal treatment for equals is considered most important and essential principle of justice. It is considered rather accepted that individuals share certain characteristics as human beings, therefore everyone deserve equal treatment in similar conditions. Most of the areas in which we expect equality of treatments for all are 1. Civil rights i.e. availability of basic essentials on equal basis;

2. Political rights like right to vote and right to participate in the political processes; and

3. Social rights like equal behaviour and equality of access to basic needs in social matters. Another aspect of equal treatment for equals is that there should not be any discrimination against on the ground of class, caste, race or sex. Everybody should be judged on his/her work of talent and skill.

2. Proportionate Justice
Equality of treatment can be absolute, it has to be accepted and worked out on proportionate levels. We can say that every one needs equal treatment in all the conditions. Proportionate justice means rewarding people in proportion to the scale and quality of their efforts. The duties and rewards have to rationalised and defined. For real justice in the modern society the principle of equal treatment needs to be balanced with the principle of proportionality.

3. Recognition of Special Needs
Third important principle which is taken into account is the special needs of the people while distributing rewards and duties. Sometimes we have to take the corrective measures for the sake of justice and for the special treatment is given to some people. This is called as recognition of special needs.

This is also called as the balancing the imbalance. It does not violate the principle of equal treatment. It is sort of affirmative action. People may need special treatment due to some natural disabilities, although they may look unequal but for the sake of justice deserve special needs. People with all the privileges and people with deficiencies may need different behaviour and treatment. Deficient people will need special help.

Question 3.
Does the principle of considering the special needs of people conflict with the principle of equal treatment for all?
Answer:
The principle of considering the special needs of people may appearin conflict with the principle of equal treatment for all but when we look at the broader sense of the idea of justice, we conclude that the principle of giving special needs to one does not violate the principle of equal treatment for all.

Infact it is based on the principle distributive of justice. As a corrective measure we give special help to a person who is having disabilities and can be considered at par with the people standing in the treatment of equality for all. The principle of treating equals equally could imply that people who are not equal in certain important respects could be treated differently.

Physical disabilities, age, lack of access to good education or healthcare are some important factors which can be considered grounds for special treatment. If both the groups of people i.e. normal and handicaps are treated equal or alike, it would certainly lead to injustice hence if handicap people are given special help or some of their needs are fulfilled it will not be violations of justice rather it will fulfil the need of justice.

Question 4.
How does the Rawls use the idea of a veil of ignorance to argue that fair and just distribution can be defended on rational grounds?
Answer:
The merit of the ‘veil of ignorance’ position is that it expects people to just be their usual rational salver. They are expected to think for themselves and choose what they regard to be in their interest. They choose under the veil of ignorance, they will find that it is in their interest to think from the position of the worst off.

It is therefore first step in arriving at a system of fair laws and policies. The rational persons will not only see things from the perspective of the worst off. They will also try to make it sure that the policies they frame benefit the society as a whole. Since nobody knows, what position they would occupy in future society, they decide such rules that protect them if they happen to be bom among the worst off.

Therefore it is in the interests of all that society as a whole should be benefitted from the rules and policies that are decided and not for any particular section. Such fairness would be the outcome of rational action not benevolence or generosity.

Rawls therefore argues that it is rational thinking and not morality could lead us to be fair and judge impartially regarding how to distribute the benefits and burden of a society. It is this generalisation which makes Rawl’s theory an important and compelling way to approach the question of fairness and justice.

Question 5.
What are generally considered to be the basic minimum requirements of people for living a healthy and productive life? What is the responsibility of governments in trying to ensure this minimum to all?
Answer:
A society is considered unjust when the gulf between the haves and havesnot is so big which put them in different world in terms of access to consume minimum basic needs.

Therefore ajust society should provide people with the basic minimum conditions to enable them to live healthy and secure lives and develop their talents as well as equal opportunities to pursue their chosen goal in society.

To devise the basic minimum conditions of life needed by people, various methods of calculating the basic needs of people have been devised by different governments and by international organisations like WHO and NS$. These needs pertain to health, housing, clean drinking water0 education and minimum wages etc.

Providing people with their basic needs is considered to be one of the responsibilities of a democratic government. Today’s state is welfare state therefore becomes more pertinent for a democratic government to improve the living conditions of people by providing minimum basic needs.

Question 6.
Which of the following arguments could be used to justify state action to provide basic minimum conditions of life to all citizens?
a. Providing free services to the poor and needy can be justified as an act of charity.
b. Providing all citizens with a basic minimum standard of living is one way of ensuring equality of opportunity.
c. Some people are naturally lazy and we should be kind to them.
d. Ensuring a basic facilities and a minimum standard of living to all is a recognition of our shared humanity and a human right.
Answer:
Statement ‘b’ and ‘d’ could be used to justify State action to provide basic minimum conditions of life.
‘b’ Providing all citizens with a basic minimum standard of living is one way of ensuring equality of opportunity.
‘d’ Ensuring a basic facilities and a minimum standard of living to all is a recognition of our shared humanity and human right.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 13 Equality Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Equality NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 13

Equality Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 13

Question 1.
Some people argue that inequality is natural while others maintain that it is equality which is natural and the inequalities which we notice around us are created by society. Which view do you support? Give reasons.
Answer:
Both views seem to be correct that inequality is natural and also equality is natural. It is the view-point of understanding these two concepts which make the difference. Natural inequality is that somewhere it is night and somewhere it is day, somewhere it is hot and at somewhere it is cold, somewhere it is plain and at other place it is hill.

Somewhere it is dry and at other place it is raining. Similarly a man is black and other man is white. One short and other is long. Similarly there is biological inequality as some are men and other female with their biological inequalities.

Nature has also made man equal in capabilicities and capacities and every one likes to be equal as a matter of right. Equality is also natural condition but equality in absolute sense is not possible in collective sense. Therefore the meaning of equality has to be defined keeping in view the sour economic conditions of society.

The essentials of equality have to be decided with reference to the living and working environment of man. Even unequal conditions can be understood and accepted as equality. Man made unjust equality has to be removed. The wages of a doctor and labourer are bound to be different.

Question 2.
There is a view that absolute equality is neither possible nor desirable. It is argued that the most a society can do is to try and reduce the gaps between the richest and poorest members of society. Do you agree?
Answer:
We have reasons to fully agree with the above statement that absolute equality is neither possible nor desirable. We take the example of a doctor and a labourer. Equal wages of a doctor and labourer is neither possible nor desirable because a doctor has made big investment and thus has earned his capacities and capabilities.

Moreover his responsibilities and work are greater than the responsibilities and vfork of a labourer. If a doctor is paid Rs. 10,000/PM, it is not expected that even a labourer is also paid Rs. 10,000/PM.

He will be reasonable paid Rs. 3,000/PM. Therefore if there is difference of Rs. 7,000/PM in the wages of a doctor and labourer it will not be criticised and it will be accepted as equality. However if there are two labourers in which one is male and is paid Rs. 3,000/PM and another is female, who is paid Rs. 1,000/PM for being female. It is the situation of man made inequality and it is the violation of equality.

All men cannot be richest and all are not supposed to be poorest. All are not supposed to live in big palaces and all should not be forced to live in huts without bare needs of life. Equality should prevail in relative terms where all get equal opportunities and access to needs of life and develop their capabilities and capacities.

Question 3.
Match the following concepts with appropriate instances.
A. Affirmative action – 1. Every adult citizen has a right to vote.
B. Equality of opportunity – 2. Banks offer higher rate of interest to senior citizens.
C. Equal Rights – 3. Every child should get free education.
Answer:
A. (2), B. 3, C. (1).

Question 4.
A government report on farmers* problems says that small and marginal farmers cannot get good prices from the market. It recommends that the government should intervene to ensure a better price but only for small and marginal farmers. Is this recommendation consistent with the principle of equality?
Answer:
It is definitely against the principle of equality or is not consistent with the principle of equality because there cannot be two pricing policy of agricultural products, one for small and marginal farmers and one for the big and rich farmers. If the small farmers are not getting good prices, the reasons are different. The small and marginal farmers can be helped by some affirmative actions like giving them higher subsidies and low interest loans for the sake of equality.

Question 5.
Which of the following violate the principle of equality? And why?
a. Every child in class will read the text of the play by turn.
b. The Government of Canada encouraged white Europeans to migrate to Canada from the end of the Second World War till 1960.
c. There is separate railway reservation counter for the senior citizens.
d. Access to some forests areas is reserved for certain tribal communities.
Answer:
There is violation of principle of equality in Para ‘b’ where the Government of Canada made distinction on the basis of co lour andencouraged only white Europeans to migrate to Canada from the end of the Second World War till 1960. It is clearly the violation of principle of Equality.

lnPara‘a’and Para ‘c’ there is no violationofprincipleofEquality. In Para ‘d’ also there is violation of equality because there is
discrimination in giving access to forest areas to only for certain tribal communities and not for all.

Question 6.
Here are some arguments in favour of the right to vote for women. Which of these are consistent with the idea of equality? Give reasons.
a. Women are our mothers. We shall not disrespect our mothers by denying them the right to vote.
b. Decisions of the government affect women as well as men, therefore they should also have a say in choosing the rulers.
c. Not granting women the right to vote will cause disharmoney in the family.
d. Women constitute half of humanity. You cannot subjugate . them for long by denying them the right to vote.
Answer:
Para ‘b’ and Para ‘d’ are more consistent with the idea of equality. Para ‘b’ says that since the decisions of the government affect men and women, hence both should have say in choosing the rulers. Para ‘c’ also is right that you can deny this right which constitute 50% of total population.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 4 Constitution as a Living Document Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Constitution as a Living Document NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 9

Constitution as a Living Document Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 9

Question 1.
Choose the correct statement from the following:-
A Constitution needs to be amended from time to time because
a. circumstance change and require suitable charges in the constitution.
b. a document written at one point of time becomes outdated after some time.
c. every generation should have a constitution of its own liking.
d. it must reflect the philosophy of the existing government.
Answer:
(a) Circumstance change and require suitable charges in the constitution.

Question 2.
Write True/False against the following statements :
a. The President cannot send back an amendment bill for re-consider-1 atom of the President.
b. Elected representatives alone have the power to amend the constitution
c. The Judiciary cannot initiate the process of constitutional amendment but can effectively change the Constitution by interpreting it differently.
d. The Parliament can amend any section of the constitution
Answer:
(a) True
(b) True
(c ) True
(d) False

Question 3.
Which of the following are involved in the amendment of the Indian constitution? In what way are they involved?
Followings are involved in the amendment of the Constitution
1. President of India
2. State legislative
3. Parliament.
In the amendment of the constitution basically. Parliament, state legislature and President of India are involved.
The amendment process is initiated in the Parliament when a constitutional amendment bill is introduced in the either house and when it is passed in that house, it is sent to the next house.

When it is passed by Parliament’s . both houses with required majority then it is sent to the President of India for his assent. If the amendment affects the states, then it is required to be ratified by the assemblies of 50% states.

Question 4.
You have read in this chapter that the 42nd amendment was one of the most controversial amendments so fan Which of the following were the reasons for his controversy?
a. It was made during national emergency, and the declaration of that emergency was it self controversial
h It was made without the support of special majority.
c. It was made without the ratification by state legislature.
d It contained provisions, which were controversial.
Answer:
42nd Constitutional amendment was most controversial following were the reasons for this controversy:
(a) It was made during national emergency and. the declaration of that emergency was itself controversial.
(b) It was made without the support of special majority
(c) It was made without ratification by state legislatures.
(d) It contained provisions, which were most controversial.

Question 5.
Which of the following is not a reasonable explanation of the conflict between the legislature and the judiciary over different amendments.
(a) Different interpretations of the Constitution are possible.
(b) In a democracy, debates, and differences are natural.
(c) Constitution has given higher importance to certain rules and principles and also allowed for amendment by special majority.
(d) Legislature cannot be trusted to protect the rights of the citizens.
(e) Judiciary can only decide the constitutionality of a particular law, cannot resolve political debates about its need.
Answer:
(d) Legislature cannot be trusted to protect the rights of the citizens.

Question 6.
Identify the correct statements about the theory of basic structure. Correct the incorrect statements.
(a) Constitutions specifies the basic tenets.
(b) Legislature can amend all parts of the Constitution except the basic structure.
(c) Judiciary has defined, which aspects of the Constitution can be termed as the basic structure and which cannot
(d) The theory found its first expression is the Kesavananda Bharati case and has been discussed/ in subsequent judgements.
(e) This theory has increased the power of judiciary and has come to be accepted by different political parties and the government.
Answer:
All the above statements are correct.

Question 7.
From the information that many amendments were made during 2000-2003, which of the following conclusions would you draw.
a. Judiciary did not interfere in the amendments, made during this period,
b. Our political party had a strong majority during this period.
c. There was strong pressure from the public in favour of certain amendments.
d. There were no real differences among the parties during this time.
e. The amendments were of non-controversial nature and parties had an agreement on the subject of amendments.
Answer:
We. draw the following conclusions from the information we get about the amendments between 2000-2003 (9.) Judiciary did not interfere in the amendments made during this period. The amendments were of non-controvenial nature and parties had an agreement on the subject of amendments.

Question 8.
Explain the reason for requiring special majority for amending the Constitution.
Answer:
Amendment to the Constitution requires two different kinds of special majorities. In the first place, those voting in favour of the amendment bill should constitute at least half of the total strength of that house. Secondly ’ the supporters of the amendment bill must also constitute two third of votes.

Who actually take part in the voting. Both the houses must pass the amendment bill separately in the manner. First significant reason of this requirement is that if only 300 members-are present in the house of 545, it will require the support of 273 members and otherwise also it will require the support of 273 members. It will ensure sufficient consensus over the proposed amendment bilk The basic principle behind the amending proceeding is that it should be based on broad support among the political parties and Parliamentarians.

Question 9.
Many amendments to the Constitution of India have been made due to different interpretation upheld by the judiciary and the Parliament-explain with examples.
Answer:
It is true that a number of amendments are a product of different interpretations of the Constitution by foe judiciary and the government of the day. Whenever the Parliament did not relish the decision of the judiciary on a particular issue, it resorts to amendment of the Constitution to overcome that ruling of the judiciary.

In the period of 1970 to 1975 it happend frequently and Parliament made amendments repeatdly to overcome the adverse inter pretations by the judiciary. It tiappend also in the context of that period. For example in 1967, in Golakhnath case, Supreme Court reversed its earliar decisions on the power of Parliament to amend the Fundamental rights and ruled that Parliament cannot amend the Fundamental Rights.

To overcome this ruling of Judiciary, Parliament passed 38th and 39th and 40th amendment of the constitutional which were later on challenged in Keshwananda Bharti case in’ 1973 in which the concept, of Basic strudice theory orginated. In this case it was ruled by the Supreme court that Parliament can amend any part of the Constitution but cannot change the basic structure of the constitution. Similarly to over come the ruling of Judiciary in Shahbano Case Parliament amended the Constitution. ‘

Question 10.
If admending powers is with the elected repersetatives, judiciary should not have the power to decide the validity of amendments. Do you agree? Gvie reasons in 100 words.
Answer:
The power of the constitutional amendment is with the Parliament which is constituted by the elected representatives of the people. It is thought that these selected representatives would be better judge of the need to change the Constitution as per demand of the circumstances.

But they certainly need a check of judiciary so that they would not misuse and misinterpret their power. Constitution makers have given their power to the judiciary in the name of the power of judicial review. Had the judiciary been not given this power the elected repersentative$ would have amended this Constitution more than 200 times enstructing the entire Constitution with the power of Judicial review.

The judiciary test the Constitutional validity of such amendment. The thought that it had the power and responsibility to make laws for furtherning the welfare of the poor, backward and the needy. Judiciary insists that all these amendments and changes have to take place within the framework of the Constitution and pro-people measures (populist measures) should not by pass legal procedures.

You can not make laws even with good intentions by passing the legal procedure because that, can give an excuse to the power holders to use their power arbitrarily. The democracy is as much about checks on arbitrary use of power as it is about the well being of the people. It is the main responsibilty and power of judiciary.

The decisison of the judiciary in Keshwa Nand case 1973 emphasises this point by making spirit of the Constitution more important than letters of the constitution. It is because of this that judiciary should have the power to test the validity of the constitution.

Detailed, Step-by-Step NCERT Solutions for 11 Political Science Chapter 8 Local Governments Questions and Answers were solved by Expert Teachers as per NCERT (CBSE) Book guidelines covering each topic in chapter to ensure complete preparation.

Local Governments NCERT Solutions for Class 11 Political Science Chapter 8

Local Governments Questions and Answers Class 11 Political Science Chapter 8

Question 1.
Constitution of India visualised village Panchayats as units of self¬government. Think over the situation described in the following statements and explain how do these situations strengthen or weaken the panchayats in becoming units of self governments.

(a) Government of a state has allowed a big company to establish a huge steel plant. Many villages would be adversely affected by the steel plant. Gram Sabha of one of the affected villages passed a resolution that before establishing any big industries in the region, village people must be consulted and their grievances should be red- ressed.

(b) The government has decided that 20% of all its expenditure would be done through the panchayats.

(c) A village panchayat kept on demanding funds for a building for a’. village school, the government officials turned down their proposal saying that funds are allocated for certain other schemes and cannot be spent otherwise.

(d) The government divided a village Dungarpur into two and made a part of village Jamuna and Sohana. Now village Dungarpur has ceased to exist in government’s books.

(e) A village panchayat observed that water sources of their region are depleting fast. They decided to mobilise youth to do some voluntary work and revive the old village ponds and wells.
Answer:
a) In this situation the gram Panchayats will be weakened because the government has taken the decision of setting of a huge plant without consulting the villagers and village Panchayat.

(b) Second situation will also affect adversely to Panchayat because it will cause financial burden on Panchayat.

(c) Third situation also ignore the Panchayat is demand of building for a school. Therefore this is a case of weakening village Panchayat

(d) Fourth case is also case of weakening village Panchayat.

(e) Fifth case is of strengthening the village Panchayat as it is case of co-operation among the villagers under the leadership of village Panchayat.

Question 2.
Suppose you are entrusted to evolve a local government plan of a state, what powers would you endow to the village Panchayats to function as unit of self Government? Mention any five powers and the justification in two lines for each of them for giving those powers.
Answer:
We would give powers to the village Panchayat in following five areas:
1. In the field of education.
2. In the field of health.
3. In the field of agriculture development
4. In the field of marketing the produce.
5. In the field of mobilisation of its financial resource
Village are dependent on agriculture so there needs are also agriculture based. Therefore Panchayats should be involved in agriculture development and to improve the economy of the village. Panchayats should also be involved in improving the educational and health standard of the villagers.

Question 3.
What arc the provisions for the reservation for the socially dis-advantaged groupsrtsper the 73rd Amendment? Explain how these provisions have changed the profile of the leadership at the village level.
Answer:
In 73rd Amendment of Constitution of India one third seats have been reserved for women and similarly one third seats are reserved for Scheduled castes in village Panchayats, Block Samitis and Zila Parishads.

With this reservation the participation of women and Scheduled castes has been ensured. This has brought about sea change in the confidence of these sections. They have become responsible and have got opportunity to express worth in the administration at local level.

Question 4.
What were the main difference between the local governments before 73rd amendment and after that amendment?
Answer:
1. Before 73rd amendment the local governments were organised on the basis of state’s order, but after 73rd amendment local government got the constitutional status.

2. Before 73rd amendment Scheduled castes and women were not ad-equately represented in local governments but after 73rd amendment women and scheduled castes got 33% reservation each.

3. Before 73rd amendment elections were indirect but after 73rd amend-ment elections became direct.

4. Before 73rd amendment tenure were indefinite but now tenure is fixed.

5. Before 73rd amendment they were financially weak but now they are financially sound.

Question 5.
Read the following conversation. Write in two hundred words your opinion about the issues raised in this conversation.
Alok: Our Constitution guarantees equality between men and women. Reservations iii local bodies for women ensure their equal share in power.
Neha: But it is not enough that women should be in position of power. It is necessary that the budget of local bodies should have seperate provision for women.
Jayesh: I don’t like this reservation business. A local body must take care of all people in the village and that would automatically take care of women and their interests.
Answer:
The working of local Governments in different states during last 50 years suggest that women and weaker sections of the society like Sched¬uled castes and Scheduled tribes regained unrepresented if there was some representation, it was minimum in proportion to their population.

After 73rd and 74th amendment 33% seats are reserved for women and 33% seats are reserved for scheduled castes in rural and urban local governments which definitely ensured the representations of women and scheduled castes in their proportion and made them powerful.

It is also a fact that reservation is not the ultimate answer for empowerment of the women and Scheduled castes. Socio-economic environment should be condusive for the involvement of all sections of the society in political process and decisions making process in proportion to their population.

It is also fact that local government should be allowed to mobilise their strength ‘and resources and they should be adequately financed by the state and central government. Local governments should involves all the villages so that a feeling of collectivty and co-operation is developed irrespective of caste and sex consideration.

Question 6.
Read the provisins of the 73rd Amendment Which of the following concerns does this amendment address?
a. Fear of replacement makes representative accountable to the people.
b. The dominant castes and feudal landlords dominate the local bodies.
c. Rural illiteracy is very high, illiterate people cannot take decisions about the development of the village.
d. To be effective the village Panchayats need resources and powers to make plans for the village development.
Answer:
‘D’ addresses the 73rd amendment which says that to be effective the village Panchayats need resources and powers to make plans for the village development.

Question 7.
Following are different justification given in favour of local government Give them ranking and explain why you attach greater significance to a particular rationale than the others. According to you, on which of these rationales the decision of the Gram Panchayat of Vengaivasal village was based? How?
(a) Government can complete the projects with lesser cost with the involvement of the local community
(b) The development plans made by the local people will have greater acceptability than those made by the government officers.
(c) People know their area, needs problems and priorities. By collective participation they should discuss and take decisions about their life.
(d) It is difficult for the common people to contact their representatives of the State or the national legislature.
Answer:
My ranking of the above rational will be as under
1. c.
2. a
3. b
4. d
Justification of ranking.
‘C’. This rationale says that people of the area know the problems and priorities of the area than others, so they should be allowed to take decisions about themselves.
a. If local people are involved in a project the cost will be lesser
b. The development plan prepared by the local people will be accepted by the people quickly.
d. It is difficult for the common people to have contact with MLAs and MPs
The decision of the Gram Panchayat of Vengaivasal village is based on rational ‘C’ which says that people of the area know the problems and priorities of the area. So by collective participation they should discuss and take the dicisions about their like. It shows that the decisions of the Panchayat of the village Vengaivasal resembles with our ranking of the given rationales.

Question 8.
Which of the following according to you involve decentralisation? Why are other options not sufficient for decentralisation?
a. To hold election of Gram Panchayat
b. Decision by the villagers themselves about what policies and
programmes are useful for the village.
c. Power to call meeting Gram Sabha.
d. A Gram Panchayat receving the report from the Block Development Officer about the progress of a project started by the State government.
Answer:
‘B’ statement given in B involves decentralisation because it is related with the decisions taken by the villagers about themselevs. Other statements do not involve decentralisation to the extent because in a holding of elections of gram Panchayat is given. In ‘C’ power to call a meeting of gram Sabha and statement’d’ is related with just getting the report from the Block Development Officer about the progress of a project.

Question 9.
A student of Delhi University Raghavendra Parpanna, wanted to study the role of decentralisation in decision making about primary education. He asked some questions to the villagers. There questions are given below. If you were among those villagers, what answer would you give to each of these questions?
A meeting of the Gram Sabha is to be called to discuss what steps should be taken, to enure that every child of the village goes to the school.
(a) How would you decide the suitable day for the meeting? Think who would be able to attend/not attend the meeting because of your choice.
i. A day specified by the B.D.O. or the collector
ii. Day of the village hat
iii. Sunday
iv. Naag panchmi/Sankranti
Answer:
A day specified by the BDO or the collector.

b. What is suitable venue for the meeting? Why?
(i) Venue suggested by the circular of the district collector
(ii) Religious place in the village
(iii) Dalit Mohalla
(iv) Upper Caste Tola
(v) Village School.
Answer:
Village school will be suitable venue for the meeting because that is the common place of the village where every villager would come.

‘c’ In the Gram Sabha meeting firstly a circular sent by the district collector was read. It suggested what steps should be taken to organise an education rally and what should be its route. The meeting did not discuss about the children who never come to school or about girl’s education or the condition of the school building and the timing of the school. No women teacher attended the meeting as it was held on Sunday.
What do you think about these proceedings as an instance of people’s participation?
Answer:
This is the description of real state of affairs about the local government in which no real participation and involvement of the local people do not take place. Meetings are held on inconvinent dates and times and they are just informed about the decisions. Women do not g6t adequate representation and if. at participate their voice remain unheard.

‘d’ Imagine your class as the Gram Sabha. Discuss the agenda of the meeting mid suggest some steps to realise the goal.
Answer:
It our class were be a Gram Sabha our agenda regarding the welfare, participation and involvement of the people will be discussed and Nonsenses will be achieved to take the steps for realising the goal of decentral i sal ion. For this following steps can be suggested :

• The goal will be the development of the village with the involvement of the people of the village.
• Decentralisation has to be maximum
• Our representation of women has to be ensured
• Our representation of weaker section has to be ensured
• Co-ordination with the local officers has to t|p achieved
• Governments plans and policies should reach to the villagers.