Unit 3 Ch 7 : Outcomes of Democracy — Social Studies STD 10 — Question

1. People should get a chance to choose their representatives without any fear.
2. Elections are held periodically on the basis of universal franchise.
3. Free and fair elections are conducted by an independent machinery.
4. The elected representatives are accountable to the people.
5. There is more than one political party which competes for power.
6. Pressure and Interest groups play a prominent role in the system.
7. People are guaranteed fundamental rights like right to life, liberty, equality and religion by the constitution.
8. The constitution provides for an independent and impartial judiciary, which protects the rights of the people.
9. There should be a strong opposition which should act as a watchdog on government both inside and outside the Parliament.
10. There should be an enlightened public opinion so that people can put pressure on government.
11. The constitution provides for a written set of roles, which divides power between the Centre and the state.
12. Freedom of the press should be allowed.
13. Public order and decency should be maintained.
14. The unity, integrity and sovereignty of the country should be maintained.
15. People should be vigilant and participate actively in the process of governance.

The first thing towards thinking carefully about the outcomes of democracy is to recognise that democracy is just a form of government. Democracy can only create conditions for achieving something.