The crisis of democratic order - Class 12 Political Science - Chapter 6 - Notes, NCERT Solutions & Extra Questions
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Extra Questions - The crisis of democratic order | Politics in India Since Independence | Political Science | Class 12
It is the responsibility of the police to maintain _________.
A. land records
B. land revenue
C. public services
D. law and order
The correct option is D: law and order.
It is the responsibility of the police to maintain law and order in the country. They ensure that citizens abide by the laws of the land and work diligently towards making the country a safer place to live in.
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State whether the following statements regarding the Emergency are correct or incorrect.
(a) It was declared in 1975 by Indira Gandhi.
(b) It led to the suspension of all fundamental rights.
(c) It was proclaimed due to the deteriorating economic conditions.
(d) Many Opposition leaders were arrested during the emergency.
(e) CPI supported the proclamation of the Emergency.
(a) Correct - The Emergency was declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.
(b) Correct - During the Emergency, the government had the power to curtail or restrict all or any of the Fundamental Rights.
(c) Incorrect - It was proclaimed due to political instability and the perceived threat of "internal disturbances", not primarily because of economic conditions.
(d) Correct - Many leaders and workers of the opposition parties were arrested during the Emergency.
(e) Incorrect - The information in the chapter does not specify the support of the Communist Party of India (CPI) for the proclamation of the Emergency. This needs verification from other sources.
Find the odd one out in the context of proclamation of Emergency
(a) The call for ‘Total Revolution.
(b) The Railway Strike of 1974
(c) The Naxalite Movement
(d) The Allahbad High Court verdict
(e) The findings of the Shah Commission Report
In the context of the proclamation of Emergency, the odd one out is (e) The findings of the Shah Commission Report. All other options directly contributed to or were part of the reasons leading up to the declaration of Emergency. Option (e), the findings of the Shah Commission Report, occurred after the Emergency was lifted, to investigate the excesses committed during the Emergency period, making it the odd one out.
Match the following
(a) Total Revolution i. Indira Gandhi
(b) Garibi hatao ii. Jayaprakash Narayan
(c) Students’ Protest iii. Bihar Movement
(d) Railway Strike iv. George Fernandes
Match the results:
(a) Total Revolution -> ii. Jayaprakash Narayan
(b) Garibi hatao -> i. Indira Gandhi
(c) Students’ Protest -> iii. Bihar Movement
(d) Railway Strike -> iv. George Fernandes
What were the reasons which led to the mid-term elections in 1980?
The mid-term elections in 1980 were primarily necessitated by the instability and internal strife within the Janata Party government that came to power in 1977 after the Emergency. The government, led initially by Morarji Desai and later by Charan Singh, was far from cohesive. It lacked direction, leadership, and a common programme, leading to frequent infighting among the top leaders. Ultimately, the Charan Singh government fell when Congress, which had initially supported it, decided to withdraw its backing, leading to its inability to maintain a majority in Parliament. This political instability made it necessary to dissolve the government and call for a fresh election, seeking a clear mandate from the public. Thus, the elections were conducted in January 1980.
The Shah Commission was appointed in 1977 by the Janata Party Government. Why was it appointed and what were its findings?
The Shah Commission was appointed in 1977 by the Janata Party government to investigate the excesses committed during the Emergency (1975-77) imposed by Indira Gandhi's government. The Commission was led by Justice J.C. Shah, a former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Findings of the Shah Commission:
Abuse of Power: It documented extensive abuse of executive powers. This included unauthorized detentions, abuse and torture.
Misuse of Laws and Government Machinery: It found that laws and government machinery were misused for political purposes to harass and persecinate political opponents.
Press Censorship: The commission reported on severe censorship and control of the press, limiting freedom of speech.
Forced Sterilization: There were reports of forced sterilization as part of an aggressive family planning initiative.
Demolition Drive: Unauthorized demolition of slums particularly in Delhi, displacing thousands.
The findings significantly tarnished the Congress party's public image and legitimised the Janata Party’s focus on rectifying the democratic process.
What reasons did the Government give for declaring a National Emergency in 1975?
The government declared a state of emergency on 25 June 1975, citing the threat of internal disturbances as the reason. This decision was taken under Article 352 of the Constitution, which allows the government to declare a state of emergency for issues of external threat or internal disturbance. The government contended that a grave crisis had arisen which necessitated the proclamation of a state of emergency. Technically, the declaration was presented as a constitutional measure to handle an extraordinary condition where normal democratic politics could not function effectively.
The 1977 elections for the first time saw the Opposition coming into power at the Centre. What would you consider as the reasons for this development?
The 1977 elections saw the Opposition come into power at the Centre primarily due to widespread public disapproval of the Emergency imposed by Indira Gandhi's government. Key reasons include:
Public Response to Emergency: The imposition of the Emergency resulted in severe curtailment of civil liberties, press censorship, and political repression. This led to massive discontent and protests across the country.
Formation of Janata Party: The major opposition parties unified under the Janata Party, providing a cohesive alternative to Congress. This coalition presented itself as a champion of democracy and successfully channeled public discontent against the Emergency.
Jayaprakash Narayan’s Leadership: The charismatic leadership of Jayaprakash Narayan, who became the symbol of the fight against the Emergency, galvanized support for the Janata Party.
Election Campaign Focus: The Janata Party's campaign focused on the non-democratic character of the Emergency rule and the excesses made during that period, resonating well with the electorate.
Regional Differences in Emergency Impact: The negative impacts of the Emergency—like forced sterilizations and demolitions—were felt more acutely in the northern states, leading to stronger anti-Congress sentiments there.
Thus, the combination of widespread disaffection due to the Emergency, effective opposition unity, and strategic campaigning led to the historic defeat of the Congress and the success of the Janata Party.
Discuss the effects of Emergency on the following aspects of our polity.
• Effects on civil liberties for citizens.
• Impact on relationship between the Executive and Judiciary
• Functioning of Mass Media
• Working of the Police and Bureaucracy.
Effects of Emergency on Civil Liberties for Citizens
During the Emergency, civil liberties were severely curtailed. The government suspended the freedom of the press, and Fundamental Rights, including the right to life and liberty. The use of preventive detention allowed the arrest and detention of individuals without charge, severely restricting citizens' freedom.
Impact on Relationship between the Executive and Judiciary
The Emergency period witnessed a strained relationship between the Executive and the Judiciary. Following the controversial appointment of Justice A.N. Ray as Chief Justice over more senior judges, the judiciary was perceived as being made subservient to the executive. Moreover, during the Emergency, the Supreme Court’s powers were significantly reduced, as seen in the decision that denied the hearing of habeas corpus petitions, indicating a shift towards an Executive-leaning judiciary.
Functioning of Mass Media
The functioning of mass media was heavily impacted; press censorship was imposed, requiring newspapers to get prior approval for all published material. Prominent newspapers protested by leaving blank spaces where news was censored. Many journalists were arrested for writing against the Emergency, signaling a significant clampdown on press freedom.
Working of the Police and Bureaucracy
The Police and the bureaucracy were turned into instruments of the ruling party, compromising their independence. According to the Shah Commission Report, these institutions became highly politicized and were used to suppress dissent, conduct arbitrary arrests and manage government propaganda, illustrating a departure from their conventional roles of maintaining law and order and administrative neutrality.
In what way did the imposition of Emergency affect the party system in India? Elaborate your answer with examples.
The imposition of Emergency significantly influenced the party system in India, leading to dramatic shifts and realignments. Here are key ways in which the Emergency impacted the party system:
Formation of the Janata Party: The opposition, which was fragmented before the Emergency, unified under the Janata Party to contest the 1977 elections against Congress. This unity was catalyzed by widespread disapproval of the Emergency, marking a significant reorganization in Indian party politics.
Congress's Ideological Shift: The Congress party, under Indira Gandhi, started focusing more sharply on a socialist and pro-poor ideology, narrowing its earlier broad-based umbrella nature. This ideological sharpening affected its appeal and electoral strategies.
Shift Among Backward Castes: The Emergency and its aftermath saw a shift in the political leanings of the backward castes, particularly in North India, away from Congress to the Janata Party and later to other non-Congress formations, highlighting a changing voter base which influenced party strategies and policies.
Rise of 'Non-Congressism': Post-Emergency, the concept of 'non-Congressism' gained strength, as opposition parties realized the necessity to prevent a split in the non-Congress vote, influencing strategies in subsequent elections.
End of Congress Dominance: The Emergency indirectly led to the end of Congress's long-standing dominance in Indian politics, as evidenced by its defeat in the 1977 elections, where it lost badly in northern states and saw reduced influence elsewhere.
These changes demonstrated a shift from a single dominant party system to a more competitive multi-party environment, deeply influencing the nature of political competition and cooperation in India.
Read the passage and answer the questions below:
Indian democracy was never so close to a two-party system as it was during the 1977 elections. However, the next few years saw a complete change. Soon after its defeat, the Indian National Congress split into two groups……….. … … …The Janata Party also went through major convulsions…..David Butler, Ashok Lahiri and Prannoy Roy. — Partha Chatterjee
(a) What made the party system in India look like a two-party system in 1977?
(b) Many more than two parties existed in 1977. Why then are the authors describing this period as close to a two-party system?
(c) What caused splits in Congress and the Janata parties?
(a) 1977 Lok Sabha Elections: Two-Party System Appearance
In the 1977 elections, India appeared close to a two-party system largely due to the formation of the Janata Party, a coalition of all major non-Congress opposition parties which presented a united front against the Indian National Congress. This consolidation meant that the electorate primarily chose between two large alliances, closely resembling a two-party system.
(b) Perception of Two Major Alliances
Despite the presence of multiple parties in the 1977 elections, it is described as being close to a two-party system because of the political circumstances. The Janata Party and the Indian National Congress were the two major contenders, with most other parties aligning with one of these two, resulting in a significant bipolar electoral competition.
(c) Reasons for Splits in Congress and Janata Parties
Congress: The split in Congress post-1977 can be attributed to internal disagreements and dissatisfaction with the leadership of Indira Gandhi, especially concerning the Emergency and her centralizing style of governance.
Janata Party: The Janata Party experienced divisions due to ideological differences and leadership conflicts among its constituent groups, which had come together chiefly to oppose the Emergency rather than from a cohesive shared platform. Leadership struggles, particularly between Morarji Desai, Charan Singh, and others, also fueled these splits.
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The Crisis of Democratic Order: Comprehensive Class 12 Notes
The period of Emergency in India from 1975 to 1977 marked one of the most turbulent times in the nation's democratic history. This article delves deep into this crucial phase, outlining its key events, causes, and lasting impacts.
Background to the Emergency
Political Landscape Post-1971
Post-1971, Indira Gandhi emerged not only as a towering leader of the Congress party but also as a highly polarising figure in Indian politics. Her leadership style transformed the Congress into a party centred around her personality, leading to heightened political tensions.
Judiciary vs. Government: Key Conflicts
This period witnessed significant friction between the judiciary and the executive, primarily due to constitutional amendments that sought to curtail fundamental rights and property rights. The landmark Kesavananda Bharati Case concluded that Parliament could not alter the Constitution's 'basic structure,' further straining relations between the two branches.
Economic Context Leading to the Crisis
Impact of the Bangladesh Crisis
The influx of refugees during the Bangladesh crisis, followed by a war with Pakistan, exacerbated India's economic woes. Increased oil prices and halted US aid further inflated commodity prices, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Inflation and Economic Hardship
The period from 1973-1974 saw inflation rates soar, peaking at 30%. Simultaneously, industrial growth stagnated, and unemployment rates skyrocketed, particularly in rural areas. Agricultural productivity also dipped due to poor monsoons, leading to a decline in food grain output by 8%.
Gujarat and Bihar Movements
Causes of the Student Protests
In 1974, student protests erupted in Gujarat and Bihar against skyrocketing prices and rampant corruption. These movements, initially localised, gained national traction as opposition parties rallied behind the students.
Role of Jayaprakash Narayan
Jayaprakash Narayan (JP), a revered freedom fighter, was invited to lead the Bihar movement. His call for a "total revolution" aimed at transforming the social, economic, and political fabric of India, mobilising masses across the nation.
Railway Strike of 1974
Demands and Response
Led by George Fernandes, the nationwide Railway Strike demanded better bonus and service conditions. The government’s refusal to meet these demands led to a 20-day strike, which was eventually cracked down upon through arrests and military intervention.
Conflict with the Judiciary
Kesavananda Bharati Case
The Kesavananda Bharati judgment asserted the 'basic structure' doctrine, limiting Parliament’s power to amend the Constitution. This period also saw politically controversial appointments in the judiciary, amplifying conflicts.
Declaration of Emergency
Allahabad High Court Judgment
On 12 June 1975, the Allahabad High Court found Indira Gandhi guilty of electoral malpractices, disqualifying her from holding office. This judgment set the stage for a major political showdown.
Government's Measures and Proclamation
Facing growing opposition and internal dissent, Indira Gandhi declared a state of Emergency on 25 June 1975, citing threats of internal disturbances. This proclamation granted the government sweeping powers to control civil liberties and quash dissent.
Consequences of the Emergency
Impact on Civil Liberties and Press Freedom
The Emergency period saw severe restrictions on civil liberties and press freedom. The government imposed censorship, banned protests, and used preventive detention extensively to silence dissent.
Changes to the Constitution
Constitutional amendments during the Emergency sought to protect the Prime Minister's position and extend the tenure of legislatures, altering the democratic framework significantly.
Lessons Learned from the Emergency
Resilience of Indian Democracy
One of the most significant lessons is the robustness of India’s democratic fabric. Despite severe restrictions, democratic processes resumed relatively quickly post-Emergency.
Awareness of Civil Liberties
The Emergency raised awareness about the importance of civil liberties, prompting the judiciary to adopt a more active role in safeguarding individual rights in its aftermath.
Post-Emergency Political Landscape
1977 Lok Sabha Elections
The 1977 elections served as a referendum on the Emergency, with the opposition-led Janata Party securing a historic victory. This marked the first instance of the Congress party’s defeat since Independence.
Performance and Challenges of the Janata Government
Despite its initial success, the Janata government struggled with internal cohesion and policy direction, leading to its downfall within 18 months. This period underscored the importance of stable governance in a democracy.
Constitutional and Political Reforms
Several constitutional amendments were made to prevent misuse of Emergency provisions in the future. Democratic institutions became more vigilant about protecting civil liberties and maintaining checks and balances.
Legacy of the Emergency
Changes in Party System
The Emergency period catalysed significant changes in the Indian political system, paving the way for the emergence of new political alignments and ideologies. It also highlighted the need for political parties to engage more democratically with the electorate.
Continuing Impact on Indian Democracy
The Emergency remains a critical reference point in discussions about civil liberties, judicial independence, and the balance of power within Indian democracy.
graph LR
A[Declaration of Emergency] -->|Power Centralisation| B[Restriction of Civil Liberties]
A -->|Press Censorship| C(Censorship Imposed)
A -->|Preventive Detention| D(Detention of Opponents)
B --> E[Judiciary Constrained]
C --> F[Media Silenced]
D --> G[Opposition Leaders Arrested]
This period of Emergency has left an indelible mark on India, shaping the democratic values and principles that guide the nation today. Understanding this chapter in history is crucial for comprehending the resilience and evolution of Indian democracy.
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