TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 8 Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 8th Lesson Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 8th Lesson Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Define Corruption and describe its form.
Answer:
Corruption in India is a manor issue that is constantly debated in public forms and media as it adversely effects the moral foundations administration and economy. India has the dubious distinction of unearthiny. So many corruption scandals such as 2G Spectrum Scam, Common Wealth Games Scam, Adarsh Housing Society Scam and Coal Mining Scam from 2010 onwards. Many ministers of both Union and State have been facing charges of corruption.

Form of Corruption :
The World Bank defines corruption as using “Public office for private profit”. There are different forms of corruption which include bribery, extortion, embezzlement, favortism, nepotism, undue influence etc. The Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 declares the act of bribery, misappropriation, obtaining pecuniary advantages, abasing official position, possessing assets disproportionate to known sources of income etc. are corruption practices and punishable under law. The most recent phenomenon in the forms of corruption in India is “quid pro quo corruption”.

This means political leaders and high ranking officials take decisions in favour of corporate houses and high profile business people who in turn make inflated investments into the industrial units, business undertakings and NGOs owned and managed by the family members of concerned leaders and officials. In other words, it is an exchange of benefits by both the leaders-officials combine and corporate. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating many cases of quid pro quo corruption scandals.

Corruption has become a major threat to Indian value system. It is spreading like a disease and makes mockery of administration, development, and democracy. Corruption is anti development and anti poor, in which politicians, bureaucrats, businessmen. Non-Government Organizations and criminals are the key players involved in these practices. Corruption arises due to scarcity of goods and services, delay tactics in administration (red tapisim), and lack of transparency in the system. Corruption leads to loss of trust on the system and rise of extremism and militancy in the society. Corruption leads to loss of trust on the system and rise of extremism and militancy in the society.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 8 Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Question 2.
Narrate the meaning, features, and various phases of coalition politics.
Answer:
Coalition politics in a system in which political parties join hands with each other to capture the power or put up a combined opposition to democratize the political procure. Generally, the political parties make arrangements with Common Minimum Programme (CMP) to carryout an agreed agendaas part of coalition politics.

Phases of Coalition politics :
The roots of Coalition Politics in India can be traced from the late 1960’s. Started in 1967 with signs of decline of one party, i.e., the decline of Congress Party dominance, this pattern assumed its complete vigor in the later decades. The history of the evolution of Coalition Politics can be understood under different phases of their functioning. The First Phase of Coalition Politics (between 1967-1971) marked the emergence of regional parties in various States to challenge the dominance of the congress party. The Bhartiya Jan Sangh, Lok Dal, Socialist party, Samyuktha Vidhayak Dal, and so on emerged in some Nort Indian States and made coalitions during this phase.

During the Second Phase of coalition politics (between 1977-1980). Left Front Government were formed in Kerala’, Tripura and West Bengal with various parties based on Leftist ideology. Some consider the Janata experiment at centre is also part of coalition politics.

During the Third Phase of coalition politics (between 1989 – 1991) the coalition Governments were formed at National level and at many States. However, these coalitions experienced a new pattern of relationship among the coalition partners. Some of the political parties extended ‘outside support by not joining in the government and actively involving in coalition politics.

The Fourth Phase of Coalition Politics (between 1996 – 1999) mark instabiligy, political manoeuverability and frequent fall of Governments. During this phase, political parties frequently distanced from coalitions and this resulted in fall of Central Governments and many State Governments.

The Fifth Phase of coalition Governments (between 2004 – 2020) are formed on rational basis under Common Minimum Programme (CMP) among the coalition partners. Both the NDA coalition and UPA coalitions have evolved an agreeable agenda known as ‘Common Minimum Programme’ (CMP).

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Explain the reasons for the emergance of coalition politics in India.
Answer:
Coalition Politics means a system where, political parties join together with an aim to secure the power of government or put up a combined opposition to democratize the political process. Generally, the political parties make arrangements with a Common Minimum Programme (CMP) to carryout an agreed agenda.

Reasons for Coalition Politics :
There are many factors that contribute for the formation of Coalition Governments. The decline of Congress from the position of acquiring majority to managing electoral victories only in certain pockets led to the rise of other parties. Further, the emergence of Regional Political Parties to challenge the Congress in various States and attempts to forget alliance with regional parties by other national parties led to coalition politics.

The reasons for coalition politics may be summed up as following :

  1. The decline of one party dominance.
  2. The emergence of regional political parties to satisfy the regional aspirations of the people.
  3. Spread of social and political movements as a result of assertion of rights by various groups.
  4. Political compulsions to form a national level and state level alternative to congress.
  5. Cleavages in national parties due to ideological differences.

Phases of Coalition Politics :
Coalition Politics in India can be traced from the late 1960’s through various phases. Started in 1967 with signs of decline of one party, Congress party dominance, this pattern assumed its complete vigor in the later decades. The history of the evolution of Coalition Politics can be understood under different phases of their functioning. The First Phase of Coalition Politics between 1967-1971 marked the emergence of regional parties in various States to challenge the dominance of the Congress Party. The Bharatiya Jan Sangh, Lok Dal, Socialist Party, Samyuktha Vidhayak Dal are emerged in some North Indian States and made coalitions.

During the Second Phase of coalition politics between 1977-1980 Left Front Governments were formed in Kerala, Tripura and West Bengal with various parties based on Leftist ideology. Some consider the Janata experiment at centre is also part of coalition politics.

The Third Phase of coalition politics was between 1989 -1991 at the level of National Government and at various State Governments. However, these coalitions experienced a new pattern of relationship among the coalition partners. Some of the political parties extended ‘outside support’, by not joining in the government and actively involving in coalition politics.

The Fourth Phase of Coalition Politics between 1996-1999 mark instability, political manoeuverability and frequent fall of Governments. During this phase, political parties frequently distanced from coalitions and this resulted in fall of Central Governments and many State Governments.

The Fifth Phase of coalition Governments between 2004-2014 are formed on rational basis under Common Minimum Programme among the coalition partners. Both the NDA coalition and UPA coalitions have evolved an agenda known as ‘Common Minimum Programme’.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 8 Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Question 2.
Elucidate various types of Terrorism in Indian Context.
Answer:
Terrorism is the systematic use of force or threat of use of force (Violence) to achieving political religious or ideological goals. Terrorism posed the greatest danger and threat to many countries in the world and created law and order problem. The temples, mosques, churches, markets, railway stations, multi storied buildings and other places where people densely move, are the targets of terrorism.

Types of Terrorisms :
The Second Administrative Reforms Commission in India, in its report in 2008 classified Terrorism into 5 types based on different goals and objectives of Terrorist groups. They are i) Ethno-Nationalist Terrorism ii) Religious Terrorism iii) Ideology oriented Terrorism iv) Statesponsored Terrorism v) Narco Terrorism. On the basis of the methods used by terrorists the other type also emerged such as (a)Environmental Terrorism (bio Terrorism) b) Cyber Terrorism c) Suicide Terrorism and so on.

i) Ethno – Nationalist Terrorism :
Terrorist groups resort to violence demanding secession
from Indian union or the creation of a new state in the Indian Federation. Demands for Khalistan, Jammu and Kashmir, Greater Nagaland are some of the examples. The insurgent tribal groups in North East India also indulge in this sort of terror.

ii) Religious Terrorism :
This terrorism is perpetuated in the name of religious fundamentalism. The terrorist attacks in Mumbai on 26 November 2008 and other attacks in different parts of the country by ISI of Pakistan are acts of Religious Terrorism. This is popularly known as Jehadi Terrorism.

iii) Ideology oriented Terrorism (Left wing extremism):
This form of Terrorism is also known as Left wing extremism which condemns the economically exploitative and socially suppressive nature of the society. It aims at revolutionary change through violence and terror. The ideology of Karl Marx, Mao Zedong, Lenin and others are considered as the basis for this type of extremism.

iv) State sponsored Terrorism (Cross border Terrorism):
This type of Terrorism is a type of ‘ warfare by proxy emanating from neighbouring countries. The terrorist groups are allowed to make frontal attach on nations across the border to create insecurity in neighbouring countries. India has been facing this problem from Pakistan since independence. Terrorist groups in India are supported by Pakisthan ISI and other agencies.

v) Narco Terrorism and Sandalwood Terrorism :
This form of Terrorism focuses on indulging in prohibited trade of narcotics and sandalwood. The attempts to make illegal traffic zones in North, West India and Jammu & Kashmir and ensuring Terrorism by illegal traders on officials is an example. Similarly, the sandalwood smugglers in reserve forest areas of Tamilnadu, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka resort to Terrorism against forest officials and police.

Based on means employed by terrorists, terrorism can be further classified as :

a) Environmental Terrorism (Bio-terrorism):
Environmental terrorism is a premeditated damage caused to the nature and natural resources. Using weapons of mass destruction, chemical weapons and biological weapons to create insecurity and massacre in the society. Sometimes, the deliberate use of viruses, bacteria, or other germs (agents) to kill people, animals and plants and destroy natural resources is called bioterrorism. There are instances of Terrorists using these techniques unsuccessfully.

b) Cyber Terrorism :
The criminal activities perpetuated by the use of computers and telecommunications capabilities resulting in violence, destruction and disruption of services to create fear and confusion among people. Spreading misinformation and lies, harassing women, posting sensitive comments on individuals and incidents with Facebook, Twitter e-mail and so on (social media) come under their purview.

c) Suicide Terrorism :
Terrorist groups resort to this type of Terrorism by employing suicide bombers to create large scale massacre in the society. The first suicide attack by the Fedayeen was on July 13, 1991 on Border Security Post. The attacks on Jammu and Kashmir Assembly complex in October 2001, Indian Parliament in Dec 2001 and storming of Akshardham Temple in Gujarat in 2002 are some of the examples. In fact, the former Prime Minister of India, Rajiv Gandhi along with 18 others was assassinated in May 1991 by a suicide bomber employed by LTTE.

Though, the aims and objectives, means and methods differ, all the Terrorist groups have a unanimous intention of creating fear, violence, insecurity and confusion among Indians.

d) Terrorism and Insurgency :
There is a very little thin layer of difference between Terrorism and Insurgency. While Insurgency is confined within the National boundary and directed against one’s own Government, Terrorism can transcend the National boundary and may be directed against one’s own country as well as other countries.

Question 3.
What are the antiterrorism Acts initiated in India?
Answer:
The Government is enacting stringent laws to counter the trends of Terrorism. These include preventive Detention Act, Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), Conservation of Foreign Exchange and prevention of SmugglyActivites Act (COFEPOSA). National Security Act (NSA). Precention of Black marketing and maintenance of Essential Commodities Act (PBMSECA). Terrorist and Disruptive Activites (Prevention ) Act (TADA). Promotion of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and psychotropic Substances Act (PITNDPSA), Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA), Essential services Maintenance Act (ESMA) and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and so on.

Some of these Acts are repealed and others are still in force. These Acts provide strong legal frame work to punish the terrorists. Besides these Acts, the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) and Defence of Indian rules (DIR) also suggest severe punishments to various acts of Terrosism. Some of the laws authorise the excutive to detain the persons involved in Terrorist activities without trial for several months. In all such cases, the executive can extend the period of detention of terrorists based on the suggestions made by Advisory Boards. Depending on the nature of the activity of Terrorism, the punishments vary from months long rigorous impoisonnnent to capital punishment (Death penalty).

Infact, the Indian constitution, unlike many other constitutions of the world, made provision ofr preventive detention as integral part in Article 22 of the constitution. Many civil rights groups in India criticise the provisions of Anti Terrorism Acts and term Tthem as draconian, as these Acts render excessive powers to the executive.

Question 4.
Describe various Anticorruption laws in India.
Answer:
Indian Government has taken several measures to check corruption at different levels. The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 is enacted to curb corruption in public life in India. The main thrust of this Act is to prohibit public servants from accepting or soliciting illegal Ratifications in the discharge of their official functions. In addition, bribe givers and intermediaries may also be held liable under this Act. However, filing cases of corruption against certain authorities requires prior approval of constitutional functionaries (Governor at state level and President of India at National level)

Various sections of Indian Penal Code (IPC) provide criminal punishment for public servants who indulge in corrupt practices. The prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 and the Right to Information Act 2005 help in filing cases of corruption. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) was set up in 1964 to the public servants. The citizens guide is prepared by the Central Vigilance Commission on do’s and don’ts in matters of corruption.

Whistle Blowers

The activists who expose or disclose corruption in public offices and alert people against corruptions.

Protection for Whistleblowers :
Whistleblowers who exposed corruption need protection against corrupt officials and leaders. The murder of Sri Satyendra Dubey who exposed corruption in the National Highway Authority Scam and the murder of RTI Activist Sheila Masood forced the union government to introduce “Public Interest Disclosure Resolution (PIDR)” to undertake measures to protect the lives of whistleblowers.

The Lokpal and Lokayukta Act – 2013 :
The demand for an independent body to look into the cases of corruption against bureaucrats, ministers, Governors and Prime Minister of India came in Anna Hazare Movement. This movement was undertaken against the backdrop of many corruption scandals in India. The UPA Government in 2011 brought out the Lokpal Bill to constitute an independent Lokpal to investigate the charges of corruption against officials and politicians including Parliament Members and Ministers. Anna Hazare suggested Jan Lokpal Bill to constitute an independent body like the Election Commission which would have the power to prosecute and investigate corrupt politicians and bureaucrats without government permission.

The Act provides for the establishment of a body of Lokpal for the Union and Lakayukta for States. These institutions will inquire into the allegations of corruption against certain Public functionaries. The establishment of these institutions is in consonance with
(a) The Constitution of India, which established our State as a Democratic Republic and ensured justice to all the citizens,
(b) Since India ratified the UN convention against corruption
(c) That the Govt of India is determined on its commitment to clean and responsive Governance, and provide effective bodies to contain and punish acts of corruption.

Composition : The Lokpal consists of:
(a) A Chairperson, who is or has been a Chief Justice of India, or has been a Judge of the Supreme Court.
(b) Other members not exceeding eight, out of whom 50 present shall be Judicial members. It is also provided that 50 percent of the members shall be from SC, ST, OBC, minorities and women.

The Chairperson and members are appointed by the president on the recommendations of selection committee consisting of

  1. Prime Minister – Chairperson
  2. Speaker of Loksabha-Member
  3. Leader of Opposition in Loksabha – Member
  4. The Chief Justice of India, or a Judge of Supreme Court nominated by him – Member
  5. One eminent jurist as recommended by the Chairperson and member – to be nominated by the President – Member

Powers and functions of Lokpai:
The Lokpal has the power to inquire into any matter connected with allegations of corruption against (a) Prime Minister (b) A minister of the Union (c) Any member of either house of Parliament, (d) Any group ‘A1 or group *B* Officer of the Union Government (e) Any Group ‘c’ or Group ‘D’ official of the Union (f) Any person, who is or has been a Chairperson or member, or officer or employee of any corporation, company or any other institution of the Central Government.

The Central Government constitutes special Courts on the recommendation of Lokpal, to hear and decide the cases arisingout of this Act.These special Courts shall complete the trial within a period of one year from the date of filing the case. The special Courts may make assessment of loss done to the public exchequer and make arrangements for recovery of such loss from the convicted public servant or from any other beneficiary.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Coalition politics at National Level.
Answer:
Many coalition governments were formed at the national level. The first coalition Government was formed at the Centre in 1977 with certain major political parties such as Bharatiya Lok Dal, Congress (O), Jan Sangh, Socialist Party and other smaller parties decided to form Janata Party. It is popularly known as Janata experiment. This Government was led by Morarji Desai. This is the first non Congress Government at the Centre. However, some critics did not consider this as coalition government as all parties merged into one Janata Party.

During its rule from 1977-79, government at the national level. Between 1996-98, two United Front Governments assumed office as coalition governments. Again coalition government with 13 political parties led by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) assumed office as National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government between October 1999 and May 2004. Again in May 2004 and May 2009 the United Progressive Alliance led by the Indian National Congress (INC) assumed office. Again in 2014 General election, the BJP led National Democratic Alliance assumed office at the national level.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 8 Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Question 2.
Merits and De-merits of coalition politics.
Answer:
Merits and Demerits of coalition politics: Coalition politics in India led to politics of accommodation and adjustments. Consequently, the nature of Indian federation is transformed to a cooperative federation with minimum instances of dispute between the Central Government and State Governments. Further, coalition politics in India have successfully brought an alternative to congress party at all levels. As the regional necessities and aspirations are well articulated and grievances are ventilated, Indian political system enhanced its capabilities to meet public demands.

There are also certain’demerits with the emergence of Coalition politics. Many a time, the Governments engaged the coalition partners in politics of bargain. At times, this has also resulted in manipulative politics and instability. Many of the parties have hidden agenda filled with vested interests and resulted in blackmail and mareover. Inspite of many limitations coalition politics have come to stay in India as no party enjoys the nationwide mandate for electoral victories. Due to the limitations and weakness, coalition poljtjcs are also evolving certain workable arrangement for stability. Devising the Common Minimum Programme (CMP), establishing art advisory body or co-ordination committee with all coalition partners and holding periodical consultations on important decisions and policy formulations are some of the initiatives for successful continuance of coalition politics.

Question 3.
Characteristics of Terrorism.
Answer:
Many studies on Terrorism pointed out certain similarities or patterns in the acts of terrorism.
They are:

  1. Terrorism is an organised, planned and deliberate act of violence carried out by a handful of people.
  2. Terrorism is directed against innocent civilians or a particular community, police officials, armed personnel or government employees of state or central.
  3. Terrorism is a motivated violence to challenge the social and political order of the society.
  4. Terrorism engages itself in an unofficial war with the Government and political system.
  5. Terrorism is a weapon of blackmail and coercion. It aims to highlight its demands with violence. •
  6. Terrorism is always unlawful, in human and anti-democratic.

Question 4.
Forms of corruption.
Answer:
The World Bank defines corruption as using “Public office for private profit”. There are different forms of corruption which include bribery, extortion, embezzlement, favouritism, nepotism, communalizer, undue influence etc. The Prevention of Corruption Act 1988 declares the act of bribery, misappropriation, obtaining pecuniary advantages, abasing official position, possessing assets, disproportionate to known sources of income etc., are corruption practices and punishable under law.

The most recent phenomenon in the form of corruption in India is “quid pro quo corruption”. This means political leaders and high-ranking officials take decisions in favour of corporate houses and high-profile business people who in turn make inflated investments into the industrial units, business undertaking and NGO’s owned and managed by the family members of concerned leaders and officials. In other words, it is an exchange of benefits by both the leaders officials combine and corporate. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is investigating many cases of quid pro quo corruption scandals.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 8 Contemporary Issues in Indian Politics

Question 5.
Whistle-Blowers.
Answer:
The activists who expose or disclose corruption in Public Offices and alert people against corruption.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 7th Lesson Election System in India Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 7th Lesson Election System in India

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Describe the composition, powers and Functions of Election Commission of India.
Answer:
Article 324(1) of the constitution provides the Election Commission to supervise and conduct the elections to parliament, state legislatures, the offices of the President and the Vice President of India.

Composition :
The Election Commission of India consists of the Chief Election Commissioner and two other commissioners. .
Appointment :
The Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners are Oppointed by the president of India.

Tenure :
The Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners hold office for a period of 6 years or until they attain the age of 65 years whichever is earlier.

Removal :
The Chief Election Commissioner and other commissioners can be removed by the president on the basis of a resolution passed to that effect by both the House of Parliament with special majority either on the ground of proved misbehavior or in capacity.

Salary and Allowances :
The Chief Election Commissioner and two other commissioners shall receive salary and Allowances which are similar to that of a judge of the supreme court.

Powers and Functions of Election Commission :
The constitution of India in its articles 324 – 328 enumerates the powers and functions of the Election Commission. These Can be mentioned here under.

  1. It prepares all periodically revised electoral rolls .
  2. It makes every effort to ensure that the voters list is free of errors like non-existence of names of registered voters or existence names of that non-eligible or non-existent
  3. It notifies the dates and schedules of election and scrutinizes nomination papers.
  4. During this entire process, the election Commission has the power to take decisions to ensure a free and fair poll.
  5. It Gan postpone or cancel the election in the entire country or a specific state or constituency on the grounds that the atmosphere is vitiated and therefore, a free and fair election may not be possible.
  6. The Commission also implements a model code of contact for parties and candidates. It can order a re-poll in a specific constituency.
  7. It can also order a recount of notes when it feels that the counting process has not been fully
    fair and just.
  8. The Election Commission accords recognition to political parties and allots symbols to each of them.
  9. It advises the President whether elections can be held in a state under president’s rule in order to extend the period of emergency after one year.
  10. It advises the Governor on matters relating to the disqualifications of the members of state legislature.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 2.
Explain the features of Indian Political Party System.
Answer:
Political parties in India can be broadly classified into national political parties and regional political parties. The Indian National Congress (INC), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Communist Party of India (CPI), Communist Party of India (Marxist) also known as CPM and National Congress Party are recognized National Parties in India. Likewise, India also has regional political parties like DMK and AIADMK, Akali Dal, National Conference, Telugu Desam Party, YSRCR TRS and money others.

There are no permanent cadre for many of these parties. However, there are certain political parties like CPI, CPM, BJP TDP and others who have a strong cadre base and constantly engage their workers in normal times also.

1. Multiparty System :
For many decades after independence, India became a one party dominant system with Indian National Congress dominating the political system both at the union level and states. However, the political dynamics from 1990s onwards resulted in the emergence of a multiparty system with over 6 strong national political parties and 53 regional political parties.

2. Ideological spectrum :
Indian political parties can be classified into rightist, leftist and centrist based on their ideological position. The Bharatiya Janata party, Shiva Sena and others claim themselves as rightist as these parties bestow importance to culture, traditional symbols, glorified past, Hindustan etc., in their ideology. The communist parties, Forward Bloc and others consider themselves as proper with socialist orientation and hence are known as left parties. All other parties are a combination of all ideologies and are known as centrist parties.

3. Non cadre based and cadre based parties :
Many political parties in India recruit their political workers and other functionaries only during the times of Elections.

4. No internal democracy :
Indian political parties mostly lack internal democracy in their respective political organizations. Barring a few, all the functionaries from the level of grassroots to national level are nominated by the high command.

5. Constant splits and Factionalism:
Indian political parties constantly suffer from splits among leaders. These conflicts and differences of opinion among the leaders also result in the formation of others political parties. Major parties suffer from factionalism and groupism both at national and regional level.

6. Political coalitions :
Many political parties in India prefer to form coalitions with other parties. These coalition energe as pre poll allinaces and post poll alliances.

7. Charismatic leadership :
Many political parties in India depend on the personality factor of their leaders. This is called charismatic leadership. Leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi and others gave strong leadership to the congress Party. Likewise Atal Behari Vajpayee L.K. Advani, Narendra Modi and others provided vibrant leadership to BJR IN the same manner, Kanshiram (BSP), Mulayan Singh Yadav (SP) Lalu Prasad Yadav (RJD), NT Rama Rao (TDP) K. Chandrasekhar Rao (TRS) and others have millions of followers and led their parties to victories.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 3.
Examine the characteristics of Anti defection law.
Answer:
The 52nd Amendment Act (1985) provides for disqualification of public representatives (members of Parliament and state Legislatures) on the grounds of defection from one political party to another. This amendment Act is referred to and popularly known as Anti Defection Law. The Act is further strengthened by 91st Amendment Act of 2003. The constitution that explains the grounds and procedures for disqualification.

1. Disqualification of members belonging to political parties :
An elected member of any political party faces disqualification, if he joins in any other political party. Further, an elected member of parliament or state legislature belonging to any political party becomes disqualified.
a) If the member resigns from the political party; or
b) If the member either votes or abstains from voting on any matter in the house against the directions issued by political party through a whip.

2. Disqualification of Independent Members and Nominated members:
A member elected as independent to the House of Parliament or state Legislature becomes disqualified if he joins any political party after the election.

Likewise a nominated member to Parliament or State Legislature becomes disqualified if he joins any political party after six months of his nomination.

3. Anti defection Law – Exceptions :
If the members elected from a particular political party split from the party or prefer merger with other party, with 2/3 of the strength, provisions of anti defection law cannot be applied. Likewise, if any member is elected as presiding officer of the house (speaker or deputy speaker etc.) the member can voluntarily gives up the membership of the party to protect the dignity and impartiality of the office. In such cases, the law gives an exception to the member and it cannot be a ground for disqualification.

4. Anti defection Law-Not Applicable to Expulsions :
If any political party expels its elected member from the membership of the party, this Act does not disqualify the member for his term.

5. Anti defection law – Authorised Deciding Authority :
The presiding officer of the House (Speaker) becomes the deciding authority with regard to the matters of disqualification based on Anti defection law.

There are various advantages and short comings in Anti defection law. It was aimed to prevent political defections and corruption that lure the members with offices, material benefits and other considerations. It provides stability to the political system and prevents corrupt practices. This Act guards the policy against unprinciple and unethical political defections and strengthens the fabric of parliamentary democracy.

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Explain about Central Election Commission.
Answer:
In India, all elections are conducted under the control and supervision of an Election Commission According to Article 324 of the constitution, The Election Commission shall consist of the Chief Election commissioner and such number of other Election commissioners, if any, as the president may from time to time fix and the appointment of Chief election commissioner and other Election commissioners shall, subject to the provisions, if arty, be made in that behalf by the President’.

Thus, the Election Commission of India is an independent body. The constitution vested the Election Commission the powers to supervise, control and direct all elections in India. Presently, the Central Election Commission consists of a chief Election commissioner and two other Election Commissioners. The chief Election commissioner is the chairman of the Election commission.

He is appointed by the president of India and emainin office during his pleasure. Normally, he is appointed for a period of 6 years. He can resign on his own or can be removed from his position on grounds of misbehaver or incapacity to discharge his constitutional obligations. However, the removal process involves passing of a resolution in each house of Parliament by an absolute majority of not less than two-third members present and voting.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 2.
Briefly write about Electoral Reforms in India.
Answer:
The Electoral Reforms will ensure the free and fair elections in the country. The successful functioning of Indian democracy depends on the electorial reforms.

Some Electoral Reform proposed :

  1. The donation of companies to the political parties should be strtctiy banned.
  2. The accounts of the political parties are to be audited by the Election Commission periodically.
  3. The number of members of the Election Commission shall be raised.
  4. The limit on election expenditure of the candidates must be proper, practical and realistic.
  5. The announcement of new policies, projects and programmes by the party in power during elections should be banned.
  6. The members of the election commission should be appointed by the president president on the advice of the prime minister, leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha and the chief justice of India.
  7. The government should meet the election expenditure of the candidates.
  8. The Election Commission should be authorised to invalidate the election of a candidate, if it was proved that he had used government machinery during elections.
  9. Notification should be issued to the voters and electronic voting machines should be introduced after fool proof arrangements.
  10. The candidate who secure 51 percent of the polled votes shall be declared as winner.

Question 3.
Narrate about Indian National Congress (INC).
Answer:
The INC was formed in the year 1885 and played a significant ro|e in Indian National Movement. Some historians have a equated the history of Indian National Movement with the history of Indian National Congress. In the post independence period, the congress party emerged as the single dominent party till 1980’s. It was in power at the center for over three decades and was led by charismatic leaders like Jawaharlal Nehru, Lai Bahadur Sastry and Indira Gandhi as Prime Ministers. The Congress party was also in power in most Indian states in India. During the general elections in 1977, the congress was defeated at the center.

But bounded back to power at the centre and in many of the states in 1980 elections. In the year 1984, the leader of Congress Party and the then Prime Minister SMT. Indira Gandhi was assassinated. In the general elections of 1984 the congress won with a huge majority and Rajiv Gandhi became the Prime Minister. However, during the 1991 election campaign trial Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated. Later a coalition government under the leadership of RV. Narasimha Rao as the strength of the Congress slowly declined coalitions were formed with many parties under united progressive Alliance (UPA). The congress at the center in 2004 and 2009. Election symbol of the congress Party is the hand. The Indian National Congress allowed itself to the ideals of socialism democracy, secularism and unity and integrity of India.

Question 4.
Discuss about Bharatiya Janata party.
Answer:
BJP was formally launched in February 1980 under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The election symbol of BJP is lotus. The party has strong links with the Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh (RSS), a socio-cultural organisation that stands for Hindu Iva ideology. Since, the fomation of the BJFJ it has considerably increased its strength in Lok Sabha and captured power at the central level in 1998, 2014 and 2019 under the leadership of Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Narendra Modi. It has been forming the Government with its coalition, arrangement known as National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

These include SUraksha (security), shchita (clean and transparency), Swadeshi (Encouragement to domestic goods) and Samraksha (welfarism). The BJP believes in cultural nationalism of India. Construction of Ram Temple at Ayodhya, barring of foreign born persons to assume high offices in India. Reservation of 1/3 seats to women in Parliament and many others are part of its manifesto.

Question 5.
What is Model Code of Conduct (MCC)?
Answer:
Model code of conduct: The Election Commission of India Formulated certain guidelines to be followed by political parties and candidates during the electoral process. These guidlines are known as model code of conduct (MCC). These include, restrictions on the Government laying new projects or welfare programmes, prevention on government bodies undertaking recruitment, resonable restrictions on election campaign, so as to ensure normal public life without any disturbance, refrain from distribution of liquor, prevention of ruling party form using its seat of power for the campaign purposes and so on.

On the polling day all the parties and candidates should co-operate with poll duty officials. Candidates should not display their election symbols near and around the poll booths on the polling day. For the purpose of strict implementation of the model code of conduct, the Election Commission appoints Observers to whom any complaints can be reported or submitted.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
What are Electronic Voting machines?
Answer:
An Electronic voting machine is a simple electronic device used to record votes in place of ballot papers and boxes which were used earlier in conventional voting system. The advantage of the EVM over the traditional ballot paper system are given below.
a) It eliminates the possibility of invalid and doubtful votes.
b) It makes the process of counting of votes much faster that the conventional system.
c) It reduces to a great extent the quantity of paper used, thus saving a large number of trees.
d) It reduces cost printing as only one sheet of ballot papers required for each polling station.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 2.
When is National voters Day observed?
Answer:
The Election Commission of India is established on January 25, 1950. To mark the commissions foundation day, every year January 25 is celebrated as National voters day. The Government decided to celebrate this day to encourage more young voters to enroll and take part in the political process.

Question 3.
Explain the Growing Money Power in Elections.
Answer:
It is found that money has an increasingly important role in elections. Unaccounted black money is used by some candidates leading to corrupt practices during elections. Large amounts of money spent on campaigning by some candidates deprive other genuine candidates from winning in elections. Infact money is used by some leaders to buy votes, present gifts such as cricket bits, bribe leaders of caste associations and other groups and donate for community assets in particular area.

The Election Commission of India has taken various steps to curl the menace fo money power in elections. It appoints Election Observers and expenditure observers to each parliamentary or assembly constituency to supervise and prevent these malpractices. It is mandatory for all candidates to declare their assets and liabilities before the filling of nomination papers.

Question 4.
Write about Electoral Photo Identity Card (EPIC).
Answer:
Electoral Photo Identity cards :
The Election Commission of India issues electoral photo identity cards to the voters. The voters must bring this card or any other proof of identity at the time of voting to cast the vote. This system was introduced as a reform measure to prevent bogus voting.

Question 5.
Explain about Communist Party of India (Marxist).
Answer:
Communist party of India-Marxist (CPM) :
The split in Communist Party of India in 1964 resulted in the formation of Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPM). Within few years of its emergence, the CPM became stronger and important than the CPI. As a predominant party, of the coalition, the CPM established left front governments in Kerala, West Bengal and Tripura. The ideological stand of CPM include the establishment of people’s democracy in India, inclusion of Right to work in the Fundamental rights, Nationalisation of multinational companies protection of trade union rights, land reforms and so on.

Question 6.
Write a brief note on Shiva Sena.
Answer:
Shiva Sena :
This party was formed by Bal Thackeray in Maharashtra in 1964. Its aim was to preserve and promote Maratha pride. This party also adheres the Hindu Iva ideology and opposed to the appearement policy towards minorities. Presently the leader of shiva sena, Udhav Thackery is conducting the Government in Maharashtra a chief minister. It is also a coalition partner in NDA.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 7.
What is psephology?
Answer:
Different research organisations and Media units conduct opinion surveys during the election process to guage the attitudes of voters on contesting candidates. The study of voting behaviour of voters is called psephology. There are broadly three types of surveys to study the voting behavior of voters-(a) prepoll survey (b) Exit poll survey and (c) Post poll survey. The Election Commission prohibits the publication of results of exit polls till the date of counting of votes.

Question 8.
Write any two committees and commissions on Electoral reforms.
Answer:
The following important committees and commissions have made note worthy recommendations on electrol reforms in India in the post independence period.

  1. Joint Parliamentary committee (1972).
  2. Tarkemunde committee (1975).
  3. Dinesh Goswarni committee )1990).
  4. Vohra committee (1993).
  5. Indrajit Gupta Committtee (1998).
  6. Law comission Report (1999).
  7. National commission to review the working of the constitution (2001).
  8. Election Commission of India (2004).
  9. Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2008).
  10. Association for Democracy report on reforms (2013).

Question 9.
What are poll surveys?
Answer:
Different Research Organisations and print and Electronic Media units conduct opinion surveys during the election process to assets the pulse of voters on contesting candidates especially on the performance of ruling and opposition parties. There are broadly three types of surveys to study the voting behaviour of voters.

  1. Pre poll survey
  2. Exit poll survey, and
  3. Post poll survey

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 7 Election System in India

Question 10.
Write a note on Bahujan Samaj Party.
Answer:
Bahujan Samaj Party :
The Bahujan Samaj Party champions the cause of Backward classes. Scheduled castes, scheduled Tribes, and minorities. The party aims at uplifting the Dalits and downtrodden sections of society. The BSP was formed in 1985 by Kanshi Ram, later, the leadership changed into the hands of another leader Mayavati. The party has significant influence in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Delhi. The BSP has also formed a government in Uttar Pradesh and was a coalition partner in the central government many times. The election symbol of BSP is an elephant.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 6th Lesson Local Government Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 6th Lesson Local Government

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Write about a brief historical background of local governments in India.
Answer:
Historical Background :
Local governments in India have a long historical background. The Rigveda the oldest of four Vedas, mentioned two institutions namenly. Sabha and Samithi which performed several administrative and political functions at community level. They were the effective administrative state structures at local levels in ancient period. They relate to village panchayats and caste panchayats. Which managed the administrative and judicial affairs of a village community. These institutions continued for several years even without the effective support of the ruling classes of the time. Many eminent writers like Megasthanes Kautilya and Fahieh have cited the existence of these bodies in their writings.

In medieval period, village panchayats flourished during the Chola Dynasty in South India. The Cholas were renowed for their patronage of the local bodies. However, the local governments of the present form is attributes to the efforts of some British Officers at higher levels. They developed these bodies to promote the colonial interests. Lord Mayo’s Resolution (1870) and Lord Rippon’s Resolution (1882) paved the way for the progress of these institutions in India; Earlier the East India Company established the Municipal Corporation of Madras in 1688 with the consent of Emperor George II. Some Mayor courts were setup in Madras in 1726 for collecting taxes and administering justice.

The Regulating Act of 1773 paved the way for the establishment of local governments, at Calcutta (Kolkota), Madras and Bombay (Mumbai). Lord Rippon, the Governor General of India moved the famous resolution for devolving financial and administrative powers to the local governments. His resolution is known as the Magna Carta of Local Governments in India. He was described as the father of local self-governments in India. Later on the successive British rulers in India have intiated many steps for providing more authority to the local bodies. Some of the notable legal enactments are Bengal Municipalities Act, 1884.

Bengal Local Governments Act 1885, Bengal village self-government Act, 1919 etc. The Royal Commission on Decentralizatin headed by Sir Charles Hobhouse up of village panchayats, constitution of district boards, entrusting primary obligations to municipalities etc. The Government of India Act 1919 introduced diarchy at state level. It gave impetus to the local governments. It empowered the Indian ministers to take decisions in regard to the maintenance of local bodies.

The Government of India Act 1935 assigned the provincial governments with the obligation of making the local bodies energetic and efficient. It placed the subject of Local Self Government under Entry 12 of the provincial governments. Consequently many provincial governments paused Acts delegating the local governments the powers of administration including criminal justice to the panchayats. Prominent leaders of national movements live Mahatma Gandhi suggested the cause of local governments. Gandhi supported the cause of local governemnts.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 2.
Describe the main provisions of the 73rd Constitution Amendment Act, 1992.
Answer:
The Union Government headed by the Prime Minister RV. Narasimha Rao strongly felt the need for immediate grant of constitutional status to the Panchayat Raj Institutions. It introduced a Bill to that effect in the Parliament in September 1991. Later, the bill was referred to a joint select committee which studied the former and submitted its report in July 1992. The; bill was accepted by the Parliament and the same was referred to the state legislatures for their approval. As majority state legislative assemblies accepted the Bill, it became an Act in the name of the constitution (Seventy-Third Amendment) Act, 1992. The Act came into force April 24, 1993.

The Act reinserted Part IX which was deleted by the constitution (Seventh Amendment) Act, 1956 and added a new schedule, namely 11th Schedule. The Act deals with Articles 243 to 243(0) of the Indian Constitution.

Main provision of the act :
1. Gram Sabha :
Article 243 (A) deals with the Gram Sabha. Every village has to have a Gram Sabha consisting of all registered voters of a village. It shall meet atleast twice a year.

2. Constitution of Panchayat :
The Act envisages a uniform three tier system of Panchayats at Rural level throughout the Country.
They are : Gram panchayat at village level 2) Mandal Parishad or Pahchayat Samithi at Mjandal level and 3) Zilla Parishad at District level.

3. Reservation of Seats :
The Act provides reservations in Panchayat Raj institutions for SCs, STs and BCs proportion to thjeir population. It also provides 1/3 of seats reserved for women.

4. Duration of Panchayat :
The Duration of Panchayat is five years at every level. Incase of dissolution, election should be conducted within six months.

5. Composition of Panchayat:
Every Gram Panchayat comprises four organs, namely,
i) Panchayat
ii) Sarpanch,
iii) Panchayat Secretary and
iv) Gram Sabha.

6. Qualifications and Disqualifications :
The Act specified qualifications and disqualifications of the candidate to contest the Panchayats. i) He should be of 21 years of age ii) He should be voter in that area iii) He shall not hold any office of profit, iv) He should pay an amount as deposit specified by the State Legislature.

7) Powers and Functions :
Article 243 (G) explains the powers and functions of the Panchayats. It has powers on 29 items listed in the XIth schedule of the constitution. They are Agriculture,

Health and Sanitation, Drinking water, Fisheries, Social Foresty, Rural housing, Roads etc.

8) State Finance Commission :
Article 243(1) provides for the state finance commission. The governor of the state shall constitute a finance commission for every five years. It shall make the following recommendations to the Governor i) To review the financial position of the Panchayats ii) The distributioin of Funds between the state and Panchayats iii) The grants-in-aid to the Panchayats from the consolidated fund of the state. It consists of a chairman and four other members.

9) State Election Commission :
Article 243(K) explains how the state Election Commission is to ensure free and fair elections to the Panchayats. The State Election Commissioner is appointed by the governor to perform the following functions.

  1. To prepare and update the electoral rolls of the voters for Panchayat elections.
  2. To conduct free and fair elections to the Panchayats
  3. To allot symbols to the contesting candidate during the elections.

Question 3.
Mention the main provisions of the 74th Constitution Amendment Act, 1992.
Answer:
The constitution seventy-fourth Amendment Act, 1992 was approved by the parliament in December, 1992. It was regarded as a progressive step in strengthening the urban local bodies in India. It provided a common frame work for the effective functioning of these bodies. The Act came into force on June 1, 1993.

Main Provisions :
The main provisions of the Act are as follows :
1) Constitution of Municipalities :
The Act provides three kinds of urban local governments in every state. They are : i) Nagar Panchayat ii) Municipality and iii) Municipal Corporation.

2) Composition of Municipalities :
All members of urban local bodies shall be elected directly or indirectly by the people respective areas. They are councillors to Nagar Panchayat and municipalities and corporators to municipal corporations. Chairpersons, Vice-chairpersons, and Mayors and Deputy mayors should be elected by the members of the urban local bodies. MLAs, MPs, and MLCs are also exofficio members of their respective urban local bodies.

3) Reservation of Seats :
The Act provides reservations in urban local bodies for SCs, STs and BCs in proportion to their population. It provides 1/3 of seats reserved for women.

4) Duration of Municipality :
The duration of urban local bodies is five years at every level. In case of dissolution, election should be conducted within six months.

5) Qualifications and Disqualifications :
The Act specified qualifications and disqualifications of the candidate to contest in urban local bodies, i) He should have completed 21 years of age ii) He should be a voter in the area iii) He should not hold any office of profit iv) He should pay an amount as deposit specified by the state legislature.

6) Powers and Functions :
Article 243(W) explains the powers and functions of the urban local bodies. It has powers on 18 items listed in XIIth schedule of the constitution. They are urban planning, public health, sanitation, fire services, burial grounds, roads and bridges etc.

7) State Finance Commission :
State Finance Commission, which is constituted for the Panchayats under Article 243(l), shall also review the financial position of the urban local bodies and forward necessary recommendations to the governor.

8) State Election Commission :
State Election commission, which is constituted for the Panchayats under Article 243(K) is entitled to conduct elections to urban local bodies.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 4.
Write a brief note on Telangana Panchayat Raj Act of 2018.
Answer:
On the basis of 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, erst while Andhra Pradesh Government enacted the Andhra Pradesh Panchayat Raj Act 1994 that came into existence on 30th May 1994. After the formation of Telangana as a separate State on 2nd June 2014 the old Act was continued in the State. Subsequently, the Telangana Government led by K. Chandra Shekar Rao, enacted a new law namely the Telangana Panchayat Raj Act 2018. This new Act was came into existence on 18th April 2018. The main objectives of the new Act are to strengthening the local governments in Telangana and fulfill the ambitions and aspirations of the new state. It consists of 297 sections, VIII schedules, and 9 parts.

Main Features of the Telangana Panchayat Raj Act :
1) Three-Tier System :
Provides for a three-tier Panchayat Raj system i.e., Grama Panchayat at village level. Mandal Praja Parishad at Mandal level and Zilla Praja Parishad at District level.

2) Qualifications and Disqualifications :
The Act specified grounds for qualifications and disqualifications of my candidate contesting for any Panchayat post
a) He/she should be completed the age of 21 years.
b) He/she shold be voter in the area.
c) He/she should not possess any profitable income post of the Government.
d) He/she should pay an amount as deposit specified by the state legislature.
e) He/she is not elibigle for having more than two children after 30 may, 1999.

Explanation :
A person having more than two children before 31st may, 1995 shall not be disqualified so long as the number of children does not increase.

3) Reservations :
This Act provides reservations in all tiers to SCs & STs on the basis of proportion their population 34% seats are reserved for BCs and 50% seats reserve for women. The reservations shall be rotated every two consecutive terms.

4) Duration of Panchayat :
The duration of Panchayat is five years at every level. Incase of dissolution, election should be conducted within six months. But, where the remaining of the period is less than six months for any vacancy, it shall not be necessary to hold any election fo rremaining period.

5) Powers and Functions :
This Act provides powers and functions of the Panchayats. It has power on 29 items listed in XIth schedule of the constitution. They are agriculture, health and sanitation, drinking water, social welfare etc.

6) State Election Commission :
The act provides for the constitution of the State Election Commission for preparation of eletoral rolls and conduct of elections to all Panchayat Raj Institutions. The Election Commission shall consist of a State Election Commissioner. The Governor on the recommendatin of the Government shall appoint the State Election Commissioner. The conditions of service and tenure of office of the State Election Commissioner shall be decided by the Governor V. Nagi Reddy is the present Telangana State Election Commissioner.

7) State Finance Commission :
A Finance Commission should be constituted once in every five years by the Governor on the recommendation of the Government. The Finance Commission shall consist of a chairman and four other members of whom one shall be the Member-Secretary. The Governor shall by order appoint on the recommendation of the government of the Chairman and other members of the commission. The Finance Commission shall review the financial position of the Gram Panhcayats, Mandal Praja Parishads and Zilla Praja Parishads and make recommendations to the Government. The State Finance Commission suggests ways to improve the Financial position of the local governments. G. Rajesham Goud is the present Chairperson of Telangana State Finance Commission.

8) Village Panchayat Tribunal :
Village Panchayat Tribunal should be established by the State Government. It consists of three members, that will enquire the appellate reagrding removal of Sarpanch and others matters.

Question 5.
Describe the composition and powers of Zilla Parishads in Telangana.
Answer:
The Zilla Praja Parishad is at the apex of the Panchayat Raj institution. It covers the entire rural area of the district and is the deliberative body. Each district shall have a Zilla Praja Parishad by its name. Except Hyderabad, each district have a Zilla Praja Parishad with the name of such district. Presently there are 32 Zilla Praja Parishads in Telangana.

Composition :
Zilla Praja Parishad comprises six organs, namely :

  1. Zilla Parishad
  2. Zilla Parishad Chairman
  3. Zilla Mahasabha
  4. Chief Executive Officer
  5. Standing Committees and
  6. District Collector.

1) Zilla Parishad :
It consists of three categories of members namely :
i) Elected members from Territorial constituencies in the district directly by the people.
ii) Ex-officio members :
Members of Rajya Sabha, members of Loksabha, members of State Legislative Council and numbers of State Legislative Assembly are the Ex-officio members of the Zilla Praja Parishad.

iii) Co-opt members :
Two persons belonging to Minority Communities to be co-opted in the prescribed manner by the members from among persons who are registered voters in the district.

2) Zilla Praja Parishad Chairperson :
Zilla Praja Parishad Chairperson is the political head and first person of the Zilla Praja Parishad. He is eiected by the elected members i.e., Z.RT.C. He presides over and conducts the meetings of the Zilla Praja Parishad. The progress of the rural areas of the district depends on the active initiative and role of te chairperson.

3) Chief Executive Officer(CEO) :
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the Chief Executive Authority of the Zilla Praja Parishad. He is appointed by the state government. He shall be responsible for implementing the resolutions of the Zilla Praja Parishad. All employees of Zilla Praja Parishad shall be under the responsibility, administrative and supervision of the CEO.

4) Zilla Maha Sabha :
There will be a Zilla Mahasabha in every Zilla Praja Parishad. It comprises a chairman and some other members of Zilla Praja Parishad. It serves as an advisory body to the Zilla Parishad.

5) Standing Committees :
There are seven standing committees in Zilla Praja Parishad. They render advice to the Zilla Praja Parishad on several matters like planning, finance, agriculture, rural development, women, social welfare, education, health etc.

6) District Collector :
The District Collector participates in Zilla Praja Parishad and standing committee meetings as a permanent invitee powers and functions of the Zilla Praja Parishad.

The main powers and functions of the Zilla Praja Parishad are to took after various uses of mandal parishads and act as the co-ordination agency at various programme of Mandal Praja Parishads. The Zilla Praja Parishad shall also have the power to,

  • Examine and approve the budgets of Mandal Praja Parishads in the district.
  • Distribute the funds allotted to the district by the Central or State Government among the Mandal Praja Parishads and Mandals in the district.
  • Co-ordinate and consolidate the plans prepared with respect to the mandals in the district and prepare plans in for the entire district.
  • Supervise the activities of the Mandal Praja Parishads and Gram Panchayats in the district.
  • Exercise and perform such other powers and functions of the District Board including the powers to levy any tax or fees, as may be transferred to it under this Act.
  • Perform the responsibilities, functions and exercise such other powers in relation to any development programmes as the Government may be notification confer on or entrust to it.
  • Advise Government on all matters relating to development activities and service utilities in the district, whether undertaken by local authorities or Government.
  • Publish statistics or other information relating to the activities of the local authorities.
  • Establish, maintain’or expand secondary, vocational and industrial schools.
  • Supervision of adult education activities.
  • Supervision of self employment and livelihood schemes and bank linkages for self help groups.
  • Establishments and maintenance of parks, playgrounds and stadiums.
    Every Zilla Praja Parishad comprises Zilla Parishad territorial constituency member (ZPTC) Zilla Parishad President (ZPP), Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Balwant Rai Mehta Committee.
Answer:
The government of India had constituted Balwant Rai mehta Committee in 1957. The committee made several recommendations such s three tier structure of Panchayats and provision of adequate financial resources to rural local governments. The Recommendations of Balwant Rai Mehta Committee were accepted by the government of India. Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh were the first states to implement the Panchayat Raj System.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 2.
Ashok Mehta Committee.
Answer:
The Janata Government led by Morarji Desai appointed 13 members committee under the chairperson of Ashok Mehta in 1977 to give suggestions for strengthening of the Panchayat Raj institutions in India. This committee submitted its report in 1978 with 132 suggestions some of them as follows.

  1. The three-tier system of the Panchayat Raj should be replaced by the two-tier system, i.e., Zilla Parishad at District level and below it, the Mandal Parishad consisting of a group of villages.
  2. The Zilla Parishad should be the executive body and be made responsible for planning at the district level.
  3. Seats for SCs and STs should be reserved on the basis of this population.

Question 3.
L.M. Singhvi Committee.
Answer:
L.M. Singhvi Committee was constituted by the government of India in 1986. This committee recommended for the “Constitutional Recognition of Panchayats for strengthening their identify and integrity. It gave certain suggestions for the recognition of Local Self Governments. The Recommendations of L.M. Singhvi Committee were accepted by the government of India. It was during the Prime Ministership of RV. Narasimha Rao, the Constitutional Amendment Bills were passed by the Union Parliament and were ratified by the State legislatures. They received the assent of the President. Finally, the bills emerged as Amendment Act, 1992 and the constitution 73rd Amendment Act, 1992 and the constitution 74th Amendment Act, 1993.

Question 4.
State Election Commission.
Answer:
Article 243(K) explains how the State Election Commission is to ensure free and fair elections to the Panchayats. It calls for the appointment of a State Election Commissioner to be appointed by the State Governor. His conditions of service and tenure of office shall also be determined by the Governor. Powers and functions fo the Election Commission is as follows.

  1. To prepare and update the electoral rolls of the voters to Panchayat elections.
  2. To conduct free and fair elections to the Panchayats.
  3. To allot symbols to the contesting candidates during the elections.

Question 5.
State Finance Commission.
Answer:
Article 243(l) provides for the State Finance Commission. The Governor of the state shall constitute a finance commission for every five years. It shall make the following recommendations to the Governors.

  1. To review the financial position of the panchayats.
  2. The distribution of funds between the state and Panchayats.
  3. The Grants-in-aid to the Panchayats from the consolidated fund of the state. It consists of a Chairperson and four other members.

Question 6.
District Planning Committee.
Answer:
According to article 243(ZD), every state shall constitute a District Planning Committee at district level to consolidate the plans prepared by Panchayats and urban local bodies in the district. The Chairman of the Zilla Parishad also acts as the Chairman and District Collector acts as the convenor of the District Planning Committee in the Telangana State.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 7.
Gram Panchayat.
Answer:
The base of the structure of the Panchayat Raj institutions is the Gram panchayat. It covers a village or a group of villages. Gram Panchayat is a legislative or deliberative body. Meetings of the Gram Panchayats shall be held atleast once in a month. Every meeting of a Gram Panchayat shall be presided by the Sarpanch & in his absence by the Upa-Sarpanch. All decisions and resolutions of the Gram panchayat shall be taken by majority of the members including Sarpanch. At present there are 12,751 Gram Panchayats in Telangana.

Question 8.
Gram Sabha.
Answer:
Every village shall have a Gram Sabha. The Gram Sabha consists of all registered voters in the village, It shall meet atleast twice a year. Every meeting of the Gram Sabha shall be presided over by the Sarpanch. It discusses and approves the administrative and audit reports. It identifies the beneficiaries of development schemes. It takes steps for mobilizing voluntary labour for community welfare and development programmes.

Question 9.
Sarpanch.
Answer:
Sarpanch is the first person of the village and political head of the Gram Panchayat. He is directly elected by registered votes of the village. He should also preside over meetings of the Gram Panchayat and Gram Sabha. He is held responsible for the implementation of the resolutions of Gram Panchayat and Gram Sabha.

Question 10.
Panchayat Secretary.
Answer:
Panchayat Secretary is a government employee apppointed by the State Government. He is subordinate to the Sarpanch and assist; the Gram Panchayat in Administrative affairs. He shall attend the meetings of he Gram Sabha and Gratti Panchayat and shall be entitled to take part in the discussions but shall not be entitled to vote or moves any resolution.

Question 11.
Mandal Parishad Teritorial Constituency Member (MPTC).
Answer:
Mandal Parishad Tentorial Constituency Member (MPTC) members are directly elected by the voters, whereas the mandal president is elected by the MPTC members. The members are elected for a term of five years. The election to MPTGs is done on a party basis. The elections are conducted by the state election commission.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 12.
Mandal Praja Parishad President (MPP).
Answer:
Mandal Praja Parishad President acts as the political head of the mandal Parishad. He Presides over the meetings of the Mandal Parishad. hie determines the date and agenda of the said meeting in consultation with the Mandal Parishad Development Officer. He will have control over the Mandal Parishad Development Officer in the implementation of various resolutions of the Mandal Parishad. He takes suggestions from non-political/eminent/experienced persons for the effective functioning of the Mandal Parishad.

Question 13.
Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDD).
Answer:
Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDD) is the administrative head of Mandal Parishad the plays a crucial role in the administrative affairs of the Mandal Parishad. He prepares the agenda of the Parishad meetings and participates in the meeting and renders advice to the members on several matters of the Mandal Parishad. He prepares the annual budget of the Mandal Parishad. He takes steps for the effective working of the Mandal Parishad.

Question 14.
Zilla Parishad Territorial Constituency Member (ZPTC).
Answer:
Each Zilla Praja Parishad area is divided into as many mandals. Every mandal in the district shall be a territorial constituency, represented by one member known as ZPTC. He shall be elected by the method of secret ballot, by persons who are registered voters in the Zilla Praja Parishad concerned.

Question 15.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Answer:
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) is the Chief Executive Authority of the Ziila Praja Parishad and appointed by the State Government He shall be responsible for implementing the resolutions of the Ziila Praja Parishad and shall also perform such responsibilities and functions and exercise such powers as may be entrusted to him by the Government.

Question 16.
Mayor.
Answer:
The Mayor is the political head and first person of the Municipal Corporation. For every Municipal Corporation there shall be one ‘Mayor who shall be elected by and from among the elected councilors. The Mayor Presides over and convenues the meetings of the Municipal Corporation once in a month. He/she sets the agenda for the council meeting. He has fpil access to all records of the Municipal Corporation. He exercises administrative control over the Municipal Commissioner for the purposes of implementation of the resolution of the Municipal Corporation. The progress of the town of the Municipal Corporation area depends on the active initiative and role of die Mayor.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 6 Local Government

Question 17.
Name of the Municipal Corporation in Telangana.
Answer:
The Municipal Corporation is at the apex of the urban local self-government instituted for a large urban area. At present, there are 13 Municipal Corporations in Telangana. They are 1. Hyderabad, 2. Warangal, 3. Karimnagar, 4. Khammam, 5. Nizamabad, 6. Ramagundam, 7. Boduppal, 8. Bandlaguda, 9. Badangpet, 10. Jawahar Nagar, 11. Meerpet, 12. Nizbmpet, 13. Peer Zadiguda.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 5 Centre-State Relations

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 5th Lesson Centre-State Relations Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 5th Lesson Centre-State Relations

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Describe the Legislative Relations between union and states.
Answer:
Our constitution prescribed the legislative and administrative relations between the union and die states in a clear cut manner in Part XI, Articles 245 to 255. Both the union and state Governments formulate jaws for die peace, pleasure and progress of Indian citizens. While the Union Parliament can make laws in matters inducted in the union and concurrent list the state Legislatures were empowered to pass legislation on matters in the state list and concurrent list.

The makers of our constitution classified legislative powers of the Union and die states under three lists.

Union List:
The untonCovemmenthas exclusive powers to make laws with respect to any matter enumerated in the Union List Initially there were 97 subjects. At present there are 98 items in this list. Some of them are defence, citizenship, foreign affairs, railway, post and telegraphs telephones, currency coinage, banking, insurance, atomic energy and mineral, resources, income, tax, customs, taxes on stock exchange transactions etc.

State List:
There are 59 subjects in the state list of them, the more important are : police, local governments; public health, sanitation^ hospitals and dispensaries, land revenue, agriculture, state public services etc.

Concurrent List:
The union Parliament as well as the state legislatures have the power to make legislation dri the subjects listed in the concurrent list The main subjects Included in this list are criminal fdw, marriagaand divorce, transfer of property other than agriculture land, contracts, bankruptcy and insolvency, forests, education, iabouf welfare, trade union, stamp duties etc. Atpresentthereare

The peculiarity of this list is that both the union and the state legislatures can make legation OYef jtfe« items of this list- in an incident of conflict between the union parliament and state legislature on a par^arjim of this (ist, the jaw enacted by the Union Partiament prevails over that of the State legislature.

Residuary Items:
Accordingto 248 Article of Indian Constitution residuary powers are vested in Union Government. The Parliament has power to make legislation on residuary items. These Items are not mentioned in the above three lists.

Question 2.
Point out the administrative relations between Union and states.
Answer:
Articles 2S6 and 263 deal with the administrative relationship between the centre and the states. In normal conditions, the administrative authority of the states applies to all the subjects included in the state list. Under certain circumstances, the Central Government exercises control over the administrative affairs of the state. The following points show the administrative relations between the centre and the states.

  1. The state Governments shall exercise their executive authority without impeding the Union Governments executive power.
  2. The executive powers of every state should be exercised in such a way as to comply with the laws made by Parliament The Central Government is empowered to give such directions whenever necessary.
  3. The Union Government may also give directions to the states for the maintenance and construction of means of communication declared to be of national or military importance.
  4. The Union Government is empowered to give directions to the states regarding the steps to be taken for tire protection of railways in the state.
  5. The Union Government is also empowered to construct and maintain means of communication and information required for Army, Navy and Air Force.
  6. The Governors of the states are appointed and removed by the President on the advice of the union cabinet. They are supposed to act as the representatives of the Union Government in the exercise of their functions.
  7. The Union Government has the duty to protect every state from external aggression and internal disturbances.
  8. The Union Government by constituting an Inter-state Council can settle the disputes between the states etc.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 5 Centre-State Relations

Question 3.
Mention the Financial relations between Union and States.
Answer:
Our constitution has clearly provided for the ways to impose, collect and distribute tax proceeds between Union and the states in order to avoid disputes between them in financial matters. These matters are indicated in Articles from 264 to 30oA of part XII of our constitution.

1. Taxes and Duties levied by the centre :
Certain revenue items are exclusively assigned to the Central Government These indude customs and export duties. Income tax, excise duty on tobacco, jute etc., corporate tax, taxes on the capital value of the assets, estate duty with respect to property other than agricultural land, railways, post and telegraphs, telephone, wireless sets, foreign exchange, coinage etc.

2. Taxes and Duties levied and used by the states :
Certain items of revenue fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the states. There are land revenue, stamp duty except on documents included in the Union list, succession duty, estate duty, income tax on agricultural land, taxes on transport vehicles; taxes on advertisement; taxes on consumption of electricity etc.

3. Taxes levied by the union but collected and appropriated by the states :
Revenue from certain items is levied by the union, but collected and appropriated by the states. These include stamp duties, excise duty on medicinal and toilet materials; opium, stamp duties on bills of exchange, cheques, promissory notes, bills of lending, transfer of shares etc.

4. Taxes levied and collected by the union but assigned to the states :
These includes taxes on railway freight and fares; terminal taxes on goods or passengers carried by rail, sea or air; estate duty with respect to prosperity other than agricultural land.

5. Taxes levied and collected by the union and distributed among the union and the states. These are certain items o which taxes are levied and collected by the union. But they are given to the states. Such items.are tax on income other than agriculture, medicinal, and toilet preparations and soon.

6. Union Grants in-aid to the states :
The constitution makes special provisions for giving grants-in-aid to sphemes for prompting the welfare of Scheduled Tribes and Backward classes. The states of Assam, Bihar, Odissa and West Bengal receive grants in aid in lieve of export duty on jute and jute products.

7. Union’s power to borrow and raise loans :
The Union Government can borrow money on the security of the consolidated fund of India. States can borrow finances within the territory of India on the security of their consolidated funds.

During the proclamation of financial emergency the president can suspend the provisions relating to the division of revenue between the union and states and grants-in-aid to the states.

Question 4.
Examine the recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission.
Answer:
The Union Government set up a high level commission headed by Justice Ranjit Singh Sarkaria on June 9, 1983. The Sarkaria Commission was asked to examine and review the working of the existing arrangements between the union and the states with regard to powers, functions, and responsibility in all spheres and recommend necessary changes.

The commission prepared a report and submitted it to the union Government on October 27, 1987. The union Government, initiated measures on 179 recommendations out of 247 recommendations of the commission.’

Recommendations :
Some of the main recommendations of the Sarkaria Commission are explained as below’.
1. Strong Centre :
The commission favoured the retention of powers for a strong centre. It firmly rejected the1 demand for certaining the powers of the Centre in the larger interests of national unity and integrity.

2. Consultations :
The commission rejected the demand for the transfer of certain state subjects to the concurrent list. However, it has recommended that the union should invariable consult the states in all matters of enactments on concurrent list.

3. Co-operative Federalism:
The commission favoured greater co-operation between the centre and the states in the matter of formulation and implementation of plans.

4. Appointment of Governors :
The commission rejected the demand for the abolition of the office of the Governor. It opposed the idea of appointing active politicians as Governors. Instead, it suggested appointment of non-political, non-controversial and eminent persons as Governors, preferably from minority sections. Further, it suggested that the Governor on retirement should not be permitted to hold any office of profit.

5. Appointment of Chief Minister:
The commission suggested that the leader of the majority party in the state Legislative Assembly should be appointed as he Chief Minister. If no single party enjoys a clear-cut majority in the Assembly, the person who can Command majority in the Assembly should be appointed as chief minister by the governor.

6. Presidents Rule :
The Commission suggested that President’s Rule should be imposed on rare occasions only as a last resort.

7. Three-language formula :
The commission favoured the implementation of three-language formula throughout the country.

8. Allocation of Finances :
The commission did not agree with the demand for major changes in the scheme of distribution of financial resources as provided by the constitution. It agreed that more funds should be allotted to the state Governments.

9. Retention of All India Services :
The commission rejected the demand for disbanding All India Services on the ground that they would greatly undermine the unity and integrity of the country. On the contrary, it recommended a wide extension of these services.

10. Autonomy of Mass Media :
The Commission favoured relaxation of Union’s control over Radio & TV. It favoured greater decentralization of authority in routine matters. It suggested broadcast and telecast of national programs in regional languages for preserving India’s composite culture.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 5 Centre-State Relations

Question 5.
Explain the main Recommendations of M.M. Punchhi Commission.
Answer:
The Second Commission on Centre-State Relations under the chairmanship of Justice Madan Mohan Punchhi was set up by UPA Government in 2007. The Commission submitted its report to the Government of India on 31st March 2010. The commission opined that “co-operative Federalism and integrity as well as for social and economic development” in future. The main recommendations of the commission are as follows.

1. Appointment of Governors :
While appointing the Governors, the Central Government should adopt strict guidelines as recommended in the Sarkaria Commission report. He should be an eminent person and also from outside of the state. He should not be an active politician. Governor should be given a fixed tenure of five years.

2. President’s Rule:
It sought to protect the interests of the states by trying to curb their misuse of provisions relating to presidents rule by the center. It recommended that the centre localize the emergency provisions under article 356 to only the specific troubled areas.

3. Appointment of Chief Ministers :
The commission suggested that the leader of the majority party in the state Legislative Assembly be appointed as the Chief Minister. In the case of hung Assembly, it is necessary to lay down certain clear guidelines to be followed as constitutional conventions.

4. All India Services :
The commission recommended that proper integration of All India Services with in the three tiers of government in necessary as the officers of these services can play a lead role.

5. Fiscal Relations :
The commission emphasized the importance of strengthening the fiscal transfers through finance commission to the states and also higher transfers to backward states to enable them to improve their fiscal positions.

6. Cooperative Federalism :
The commission favoured greater co-operative between the centre and the states in the matter of development and welfare of the people. Greater co-ordination and co-operation needed for implementation of plans effectively.

7. Inter-State Council:
The commission suggested that suitable amendments were required to make inter-state council a credible and fair mechanism for effective management of inter-state and centre state relations.

8. Constitutional Governance :
The commission recommended consultation with states while legislating on matters in concurrent list on which the union and states both can legislate. It is pointed out the necessity of some broad agreement is reached between the union and states before introducing bills in Parliament on matters in the concurrent list.

9. Local self Governments and decentralized Governance :
To assess the progress and devolution of powers the commission suggested that another commission be constituted to report on the status of local Government and Devolution of powers.

10. Socio-Economic Development and Local Governance :
It suggested that Civil society involvement in public polity and administration is the best strategy for good Governance and that social audit of the major policy initiatives of government at periodic intervals be made mandatory.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
What are the two elements that determine the union-state legislative relations?
Answer:
The Legislative sphere between the union and the states are determined on the basis of two Jurisdictions.

1) Territorial Jurisdiction

2) Subject-wise Jurisdiction. As regards the territorial jurisdiction our constitution clearly specifies the geographical boundaries of Legislation between the union and state governments. It enables every state legislature to formulate laws applicable to the while area of state or part there of. As regards the subject-wise Jurisdiction, our constitution has retained the three fold distribution of legislative powers. The three Legislative lists enumerated in the constitution relate to

  1. Union list
  2. state list
  3. The concurrent list.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 5 Centre-State Relations

Question 2.
How are the Legislative matters divided between the union and the states?
Answer:
The constitution of India provides three lists in order to distribute the Legislative powers between the centre and the states. The three lists are

  1. union list
  2. state list
  3. concurrent list.

Question 3.
Write a note on the union list.
Answer:
The union list consists of 97 subjects. The union Parliament is empowered to make laws over the subjects included in the list. The subjects included in the list are of National Importance.
Example : Defence, Foreign Affairs, Railway, Banking, Currency and coinage, posts and telegraph, Insurance etc.

Question 4.
Write about the composition of Finance Commission.
Answer:
Articles 280 and 281 deal with the composition powers and functions of the Finance Commission for every 5 years. It consists of a chairman and four other members.’The chairman as well as the members are appointed by the president.

Question 5.
Write a brief note on the SarkariaCommission.
Answer:
In view of the growing demand from the various States, for the review of the centre-state relations then the Prime Minister Mrs. Indira Gandhi appointed a commission on 24rh March 1983 under the chairmanship of Ranjit singh Sarkaria, a retired Judge of Supreme Court. The commission consisted of R.S. Sarkaria (chairman), B. Siva Raman and S. Sen as its members. Mr. Subrahmanyam was its secretary.

This commission submitted its final report to the Prime Minister Mr. Rajiv Gandhi on 27th October, 1987.

Question 6.
NITI Aayog.
Answer:
The NITI Aayog (The National Institution of Transforming India Aayog) came into force on January 1, 2015. It has strengthened the centre. State relations by ensuring partnership of states in the vision of National Development priorities of fostering co-operative federalism, so that the state could become stronger and build a Nation.

The main objectives of NITI Aayog are :

  1. Elimination of poverty
  2. Redressal of inequality
  3. Integrate villages, institutionally development process ; and
  4. Safeguarding environmental and ecological areas.

The Prime Minister of India is the Chairperson of the NITI Aayog. It has a governing council comprising the Chief Minister of all the states and Lt. Governor of Union Territories. It has some Regional councils also.

With the establishment of the NITI Aayog the earlier Planning commission was abolished. It may be said that the NITI Aayog is the Institution which needs demands of the present globalization.

Question 7.
Concurrent List.
Answer:
This list contains 52 subject Both the Union Parliament and the state legislature can make laws on these subjects. However, incase of conflict between the laws of the central government and the state government the laws of the former will prevail. Criminal law and procedure, Civil law and procedure, preventive detention, ManrSage and Divorce, Population control, Forests etc., are included in the concurrent list.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 5 Centre-State Relations

Question 8.
Inter-state council.
Answer:
The commission suggested that suitable amendments were required to make the interstate council a credible and fair mechanism for the effective management of inter-state and center-state relations.

Question 9.
Residuary Powers.
Answer:
The powers which are not included in any of the above lists are called residuary powers. They are assigned to the union government.
Ex: The powers of the Parliament to impose taxes on the services sector of the Economy.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 4th Lesson State Government Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 4th Lesson State Government

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Write about the powers and functions of the State Governor.
Answer:
The Governor is the head of the State. The executive powers of a State are vested in the Governor. They are exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with the constitution. Like the President of India, the Governor is only a constitutional head and the real powers are exercised by the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister. He is also called ‘Rajpal’.

Qualifications:
Article 157 of our constitution lays down the following qualifications for the appointment of a person as a Governor.

  1. He shall be a citizen of India.
  2. He should have completed the age of 35 years.
  3. He should not be a member of either House of Parliament or State Legislature.
  4. He should not hold any office of profit in Union or State or Local goverment

Appointment:
Article 155 lays down that Governor of a State shall be appointed by the president. The President appoints the Governor on the advice of the Prime Minister.

Salary and Allowances:
The salary and allowances of Governor are determined by an Act of Parliament. At present the Governor receives a monthly salary of Rs. 1,10,000/-. He resides in the official building “Rajbhavan”. Besides he is entitled to many other allowances and privileges. His pay and allowances shall not be reduced during his tenure. His pay and allowances are charged on the Consolidated Fund of the State.

Tenure :
The Governor continues in office for a period of five years. However, he holds office during the pleasure of the President. The President can remove or transfer him to any time. Further, even after the expiry of five years, the Governor may remain in office till the assumption of office by the new incumbent.

Powers and Functions of the Governor :
The Governor exercises important powers and functions. They are mentioned as follows:

  1. Executive Powers and Functions.
  2. Legislative Powers and Functions.
  3. Financial Powers and Functions.
  4. Judicial Powers and Functions.
  5. Miscellaneous Powers and Functions.
  6. Discretionary Powers and Functions.

1. Executive Powers :
The Governor is vested with the executive powers of the State Government as per Articlel 54 of our constitution. The Governor exercises these powers either directly or through officers subordinate to him.

  1. The Governor appoints the Chief Minister.
  2. He appoints the ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister. ‘
  3. He allocates portfolios among the ministers, reshuffles their portfolios.
  4. He removes the ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister.
  5. He also appoints the Vice-Chancellors of the universities in the state.
  6. He appoints the Chairman and Members of the :
    a. State Public Service Commission.
    b. Official Language Commission.
    c. Minorities Commission.
    d. Commission for Women and.
    e. State Government Undertakings.
  7. He regulates the postings and transfer of the All India Services Personnel working in the state.
  8. He formulates the rules and regulation for the smooth transaction of the business of the State Government.
  9. He promulgates ordinances during the recess of the State Legislature.
  10. He appoints the Chief Secretary and Advocate General of the State Government.
  11. The Governors of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odissa, and Assam have a special responsibility of promoting the welfare of the tribal people.

2. Legislative Powers :
The Governor is an integral part of the State Legislature.

  1. The Governor convenes and prorogues the two Houses of the State Legislature. He dissolves the lower House of the State Legislature.
  2. He addresses the State Legislative Assembly in person or through messages.
  3. He nominates 1/6th of the members to the State Legislative Council.
  4. He nominates and Anglo-Indian member to the State Legislative Assembly if no one is elected to that House.
  5. He inaugurates the first session of the State Legislative Assembly every year or after the general elections are over.
  6. He accords permission to the bills sent by the State legislature or returns them suggesting alterations or modifications.
  7. He appoints the Pro-term Speaker of the State legislative Assembly,

3. Financial Powers :
The Governor accords permission to the members for moving money bills in the State legislature. He causes the annual budget of the state government to be placed before the state legislature. He maintains the contingency Fund of the State, He sees that the various financial reports are laid before the State legislative Assembly.

4. Judicial Powers:
The Governor has some judicial powers and functions. He can influence the appointments, postings and promotions of the district judges and other judicial officials. He can pant pardon, reprieve or remission of punishment or suspend, remit or cancel the sentence of a person convicted of any offence against law. He makes suggestions to the President in the matters concerning the appointment of High Court Judges. He appoints the judicial personnel of the subordinate courts in the state on the recommendations of the High Court.

5. Miscellaneous Powers :
The Governor receives the annual report of the State Public Service Commission and passes it on to the Council of Ministers for comments. Thereafter, he sends the report and comments to the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly for placing it before State Legislature.

6. Discretionary Powers :
The Governor exercises these powers without the aid and advice of the State Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister. The discretionary powers are listed as follows:

  1. Selection of the Chief Minister.
  2. Dismissal of the Ministry.
  3. Seeking information on the legislative and administrative matters from the Chief Minister.
  4. Dissolution of the Legislative Assembly.
  5. Asking the Chief Minister to place before him the matter on which a decision has been taken by a minister but which has not been considered by the State Council of Ministers.
  6. Advising the President to impose President’s Rule in the State.
  7. Refusing to give assent to a bill passed by the Legislative Assembly and sending it back for its reconsideration, and
  8. Seeking instructions from the President before promulgating Ordinances on some matters.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Question 2.
Explain Powers and Functions of the Chief Minister.
Answer:
Articles 163 and 164 of our constitution deals with the office of the Chief Minister. Article 163 states that the Chief Minister, along with other Ministers, renders advice to the Governor in the exercise of his functions.

The Chief Minister plays a prominent role and occupies a key position in the State Government He acts as the head of the (a) State Council of Ministers, (b) Party in power, and (c) the leader of the Assembly, (d) the people. He will have a decisive influence on political arena of the state. He influences the public opinion in the State.

Qualifications :
Usually, the qualifications prescribed for the members of the State Legislative Assembly are applicable to the Chief Minister. The only difference is that a person who is not a member of the State Legislative Assembly may also become the Chief Minister. In such a case, he should be get elected to the State Legislative Assembly within a period of six months from the date of assuming the office.

Appointment :
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor (Article 164). Normally the Governor appoints the majority party leader in the State Legislative Assembly as the Chief Minister after the general elections.

Tenure :
There is no fixed tenure for the Chief Minister, The Chief Minister and other Ministers shall hold office and exercise powers during the pleasure of the Governor. The Chief Minister and the Ministers are collectively responsible to the State Legislative Assembly, It implies that the Chief Minister holds his office during the (i) pleasure of Governor and (ii) confidence of the majority members in the State Legislative Assembly. So, the Chief Minister takes all measures to gain the pleasure of the Governor and the confidence of the majority members of the State Legislative Assembly. Normally the Chief Minister holds office for a period of five years.

Salaries & Allowances:
State legislature decides the salaries and allowences of various officer such as office of the chief minister’s council of minister and members of legislative assembly. Telangana Chief Minister recieves a monthly salary Rs. 51,000, constituent allowences of Rs. 2,30,000/- and office expenditure 1,40,000/-, Total Rs. 4,21,000/- Powers and Functions.

The Chief Minister exercises vast powers and carries out varied functions. They are explained as follows.

1. Formation of the Ministry :
Formation of the Ministry is the choice and responsibility of the Chief Minister. He chooses some members of his party or constituent parties in the case of a coalition and recommends their names to the Governor to be appointed as Ministers. He renders advice to the Governor in the matters of allocation of portfolios to the Ministers. He also renders advice to the Governor in dropping a Minister from the ministry.

2. Presides over the Cabinet Meetings :
The Chief Minister is the chairman of the State Cabinet. He presides over it meetings. He decides the agenda, initiates discussions and influences the policies of the Cabinet.

3. Link between the Governor and the Council of Ministers :
The Chief Minister is the main link between the Governor and the Council of Ministers. It is his duty to communicate to the Governor all the decisions of the Council of Ministers, relating to the administration of the state and proposals for legislation. He is the chief advisor of the Governor.

4. Leader of the Legislative Assembly :
The Chief Minister is the leader not only of his party, but also of the Legislative Assembly. He acts as a leader of the majority party in the State Legislative Assembly. He informs the party members about the programmes implemented by the State Government. He seeks the co-operation and support of the legislators for the successful and effective Implementation of the government policies. He brings co-ordination between the members of Assembly and the Government. It is his duty to help the Ministers on the floor of the House in case they are cornered by the opposition. He is the chief defender of the policies of the State Government.

5. Chief Spokesman :
The Chief Minister is the chief spokesman of the State Government. He makes important announcement on behalf of the State Government, His statement in and outside the State Legislature carry much legitimacy and influence in the State.

6. Leader of the Party in Power:
The Chief Minister is the leader of the party in power at the state level, He participates in the party meetings, He informs the various policies and programmes of the State Government in the party meetings. He seeks the cooperation of the party members for effective implementation of the State Government programmes. He brings coordination between the party in power and the government.

7. Leader of the people :
The Chief Minister acts as the prominent leader of the people in the state, He maintains rapport with the people by visiting frequently different places in the state. He consoles the affected people during natural calamities. He draws the attention of the people towards the developmental programmes taken up by the government by making them involved in such activities.

8. Chief Advisor to the Governor :
The Chief Minister renders advice on the matters of placements and promotions in public services. He also renders advice to the Governor in accepting the resignation of some Ministers. The Chief Minister acts as the Chief advisor to the Governor in the matter of composition of the Ministry, allotment of portpolios to the Ministers, reshuffling the Ministry, disolution of the Assembly, Appointment of Chairman and Members of State Government Undertakings, issue of ordinances etc.

9. Power of getting the State Legislative Assembly dissolved :
The Chief Minister has the privilege to advise the Governor to dissolve the State Legislative Assembly in case he finds that the Government cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the constitution or in case he is likely to lose the majority in the Assembly. Such advice is given by the ChiefMinister alone on the basis of political considerations.

1o. Role in Union – State Relations :
As the real head of the state administration, it is the main responsibility of the Chief Minister to maintain good relations with the Union government. He has to use his position for securing financial grants and help required for carrying out the development works In the state. In case, he belongs to a party other than the one which is in power at the Union Government, he has to act as a good negotiator.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Question 3.
Point out powers of the State Council of Ministers.
Answer:
The constitution of the India provides for a parliamentary system of government at the state level. It lays down that the Governor of the state shall act as the constitutional and normal head of the state executive, The real executive powers shall be exercised by the State Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister as Its head. The State Council of Ministers is an important constituent of the state executive. lt consists of members belonging to one or more parties. It works as a team under the leadership of the Chief Minister,

Composition :
The State Council of Ministers includes (i) the Chief Minister, (ii)Ministers of cabinet rank, (iii)Ministers of state rank and some times deputy ministers.

Appointment :
All the ministers including the Chief Minister are appointed by the Governor. The Chief Minister enjoys the privilege to select a few legislators of his party and recommend their names to the Governor for appointment as ministers.

Powers and Functions :
The powers and functions of the State Council of Ministers are discussed as under,
1. Formation of State Government policies :
The State Council of Ministers has the responsibility of formulating and determining the policies of the state government it makes discussion and takes decisions on various matters of the State Government. In this regard, all matters are thoroughly discussed by the Cabinet Ministers by meeting frequently and in the name of the Council of Ministers.

2. Maintainence of administration :
The State Council of Ministers maintains the state administration, The ministers are held responsible for running the administration of the state in accordance with the policies of the government and the laws passed by the State Legislature. Each Minister has one or more departments under his control and is responsible for the administration of such departments.

3. Co-ordination function :
The State Council of Ministers is responsible for securing coordination in the functioning of the various governmental departments. Without coordination among the departments, the smooth sailing of the State Government cannot be ensured. All the ministers unanimously support decisions of the statecabinet.

4. Powers of Appointment :
The State Council of Ministers plays a key role in all important appointments to the various offices in the state. The appointment of the Advocate General, Vice Chancellors of the Universities in the state, Chairman and Members of the State Public Service Commission, etc., are all done by the Governor on the advice of the State Council of Ministers.

5. Role in Law-making :
The State Council of Ministers plays a key role in the legislative sphere. It is the Ministry which really decides the legislative programme. The cabinet plays a significant role in law making in the state. It carries out this role so long as it enjoys the support of majority members in the state Legislative Assembly. The Governor summons, prorogues and dissolves the State Legislative Assembly upon the advice of the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister.

6. Financial Functions :
The State Council of Ministers yields control over the finances of the state. It determines the fiscal policy of the state. The Cabinet formulates and implements all development policies and plans. It manages the finances of the state in accordance with the policy and budget as passed by the State Legislature.

Question 4.
Explain the structure of the State Legislative Council.
Answer:
Composition of Legislative Council (Vidhana Parishad):
The Upper House of the State Legislature is known as Legislative Council. The Constitution lays down that a Legislative Council shall have not less than 40 members and not more than 1/3rd of the total membership of the State Assembly. The Legislative Council consists of both nominated arid elected members.

The election is conducted through indirect method by means of proportional representation with a single transferable vote.

Distribution of Seats:

  1. 1/3rd are elected by the members of the State Assembly.
  2. 1/3rd are elected by the members of local bodies.
  3. 1/12th are elected by teachers.
  4. 1/12th are elected by graduates.
  5. The remaining 1/6th members are nominated by the Governor from among persons who have distinguished themselves in the fields of Literature, Science, Arts, Social Services, etc.

Qualifications:
The members of the Council 1) must be citizens of India, 2) must have completed 30 years of age and 3) must possess such other qualifications as may be prescribed by the Legislature.

Term :
The members are elected for a period of 6 years. But 1 /3rd of them retire for every 2 years. The Council is a permanent body. It cannot be dissolved by the Governor.

Chairman and Deputy Chairman :
The Council has Chairman and a Deputy Chairman who are elected by the members of the Council from among themselves. The Chairman presides over the meetings of the Council.

Question 5.
Write a note on the State Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
Legislative Assembly is the popular, democratic, powerful and directly elected House of the State Legislature.

Composition :
There will be a Legislative Assembly for every state. The Legislative Assembly represents the people of the state. Its membership varies between 60 and 500. The members are directly elected by the voters of various constituencies in the state. The membership of the House is proportionate to the population of the state. Some of the seats are reserved for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes. The Governor has the power to nominate a member of the Anglo-Indian community in case he finds that the community has inadequate representation in the Legislative Assembly.

Qualifications :
A person who wishes to contest for the membership of the State Legislative Assembly must possess the following qualifications.

  1. He must be a citizen of India
  2. He must have completed the age of 25 years
  3. He must not hold any office of profit
  4. He must possess such other qualifications as prescribed by an Act of the Parliament.

Tenure:
The Normal tenure of Legislative Assembly is 5 years. It can be dissolved by the Governor at any time. It can be suspended or dissolved by the President under Article 356. The tenure of the Legislative Assembly may be extended for a period not exceeding six months by an Act of Parliament during the emergency. Later elections must be held without delay within six months duration.

Presiding Officers :
The Presiding Officer of Assembly is known as Speaker. He is elected by the members of the Assembly. The Assembly also elects a Deputy Speaker to conduct the business of the House in the absence of the Speaker.

Quorum :
According to Article 188, The quorum for conducting the State. Legislative Assembly meeting was fixed at 1/10th of the total membership.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Question 6.
Describe the powers and functions of the High Court.
Answer:
The high court has the following powers and functions :

Original Jurisdiction :

  1. The High Court original jurisdictions incases related to the laws and orders of state administration, marriage, divorce, succesion and contempt of court:
  2. Under Article 226, the High Court is empowered to issue writes like Habeas Corpos, Mondamus prohibition, certiorari, Quo-warranto and injuction for the protection of fundamental right of citizen.
  3. Settle election disputes of parliamentary members and state legislative members.

Appellate Jurisdiction :
1) Civil Cases :
An appeal to the High Court can be made on a decision of a District Court or subordinate courts, provided that the dispute involves a value of more than Rs. 5000/- or a question of fact or law.

2) Criminal Cases :
Cases of punishment for four years or more and all cases involving capital punishment awarded by the session court are appealled in the High Court. A death sentence by session’s court shall be approved by the High Court.

Court of Record :
High court’s decisions and judgements are recorded and taken as judicial precedence.

Judicial Review :
The High Court has the power to review and declare any law or ordinance ultravires if, it is in contradition with the Constitution. ’

Administrative Function :
Under Article 227 every high court has power to supervise its subordinate courts.

  1. It can issue general rules regulating the practices and proceedings of subordinate courts.
  2. It can ask for the details of the proceedings of the subordinate courts.
  3. It can transfer any case from one court to another (Article 228) and can even transfer the case to itself and decide on the same.
  4. It has the power to investigate or enquire into the records or other connected documents of any court subordinate to it.
  5. The High Court has the power to appoint its administrative staff and determine the salaries allowances and other conditions of the personnel working in subordinate courts.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
State Executive.
Answer:
Article 153 to 167 of Indian Constitution deal with the matters relating to the State Executive-The State Executive consists of the Governor and the Council of Ministers headed by a Chief Minister. Besides, there are some administrative personnel who assist the ministers in the functioning of state government.

The Governor is the constitutional head of the State Government where as the council of ministers is the real executive. The Council of Ministers is collectively responsible to the State Legislature.

Question 2.
Any two legislative powers of the Governor.
Answer:
i) The Governor convenes and prorogues the two Houses of the State Legislature. He dissolves the Lower House of the State Legislature, ii) He addresses the State Legislative Assembly in person or through messages.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Question 3.
Composition of State Council of Ministers.
Answer:
The State Council of Ministers include :

  1. The Chief Minister.
  2. Ministers of Cabinet rank.
  3. Ministers of State rank and some times deputy ministers. All the ministers including the Chief Minister are appointed by the Governor. The Chief Minister enjoys the privilege to select a few Legislators of his party and recommend their names to the Governor for appointment as ministers.

Question 4.
Discretionary powers of the Governor.
Answer:
The Governor exercises these powers without the aid and advice of the State Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister. The discretion any powers are listed as follows:

  1. Selection of the Chief Minister.
  2. Dismissal of the Ministry.
  3. Dissolution of the Legislative Assembly.
  4. Advising the President to impose President’s Rule in the State.
  5. Seeking instructions from the President before promulgating ordinances on some matters.

Question 5.
Appointment of the Chief Minister.
Answer:
The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor. Normally, the Governor appoints the majority party leader in the Legislative Assembly as the Chief Minister, after every General election. When no single party is able to secure majority in the Legislative Assembly, the Governor explores all possibilities of installing a stable government. He invites such a leader, who is capable of earning the confidence and support of the majority Legislators of other parties in forming the Government.

Question 6.
Legislative Assembly.
Answer:
Legislative Assembly or Vidhana Sabha is the first house or popular chamber in state legislature. It consists of members directly elected by the registered voters of different constituencies in the state. All adult citizens cast their votes in the Assembly elections. The membership of the Legislative Assembly varies between 60 and 500. Some seats in the House are reserved for Scheduled castes and Scheduled tribes.

The Governor nominates an Anglo Indian member if no candidate of that community is elected to the House.

Question 7.
Legislative Council.
Answer:
Legislative Council or Vidhana Sabha is the upper house or second chamber of the State Legislature. At present 6 states – Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jammu-Kashmir, Karnataka, Maharastra and Uttar Pradesh have Legislative Councils. The total membership of the Legislative Council cannot be normally less than 40 and not more than 1/3rd of the total membership of the Legislative Assembly of that State.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 4 State Government

Question 8.
Assembly Speaker.
Answer:
The Legislative Assembly will have an elected officer i.e., the Speaker for conducting its business. The position, powers and functions of the speaker In the conduct of the business of the House are respectively the same as those of the speaker of the Lok Sabha.

Question 9.
Composition of High Court.
Answer:
The High Court comprises of a chief Justice and such other judges as the President may prescribe and appoint from time to time. The constitution provides for the appointment of adhoc judge for a period not exceeding two years. Such judges are appointed to meet the urgency of work in a High Court.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 3rd Lesson Union Government Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 3rd Lesson Union Government

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Describe the powers and functions of President of India.
Answer:
The President of India is the Constitutional Head of the State. He preserves the Nation’s identity and upholds the Constitution and its values. He is the caretaker of the Nation as a whole and even a citizen in particular.

Qualifications :
To become eligible for the office of the President of India a person must possess the following qualifications.

  • He shall be a citizen of India.
  • He shall have completed 35. years of age.
  • He shall be qualified for election as a member of the House of the people i.e. Lok Sabha.
  • He shall not hold any office of profit under union, State and local governments.

Election :
The President of India is elected by an Electoral college which consists of elected members of

  • Both Houses of Parliament.
  • State Legislative Assemblies.
  • The Elected members of Legislative Assemblies of Delhi and Pondicheri.

The Election is conducted in the system of proportional representation by Single Transferable Vote.

Term of office :
The President holds the office for a term of Five years from the date of assumption of office. He is eligible for Re – election to the office.

Salary and Allowances :
The President receives ₹ 1,50,000 as monthly salary. He gets ₹ 9,00,000 per anqm as pension after retirement. He is provided accommodation at Rashtrapathi Bhavan at Delhi. He has two other accommodations i.e., Rashtrapathi Nilayam at Secunderabad and at Simla.

Removal or Impeachment:
The President may be removed from the office for violation of the constitution by a process of impeachment adopted by the Parliament.

Powers and Funtions :
The powers and functions of the President are studied under two heads – Ordinary powers and Emergency powers.

Ordinary Powers :
1. Legislative powers :
The President is an integral part of the Indian Parliament. In that capacity he performs the following legislative funtions.

  1. He summons and prorogues the meetings of the Parliament.
    He dissolves the Lok Sabha.
  2. He inaugurates the first session and annual session of the Parliament.
  3. He nominates two (2) Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha and twelve (12) members to the Rajya Sabha.
  4. He convenes of joint sitting of the two houses in case of a disagreement on a bill.
  5. He proclaims ordinances during the interval of Parliament.

2. Executive powers :
The President enjoys all executive powers of the Union Government. He appoints.

  1. The Prime Minister.
  2. Members of the Union Council of Ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister.
  3. State governors, Leiutenant governors and Administrators of Union Territories.
  4. Chief Election Commissioner and other Election Commissioners.
  5. Chairman and Members of Union Public Service Commission etc.

The President can also remove them.

3. Financial powers :
The President ensures that the budget of the union’GoVernment is laid before the Parliament. He accords permission to the members for introducing money bills in Parliament. He appoints Chairman and Members of Finance Commission for every five years. He appoints the comptroller and Auditor General of India. He receives the reports from finance commission and comptroller and auditor general. He operates the contingency fund of India.

4. Judicial powers :

  1. The President appoints the Attorney General of India.
  2. He appoints the Chief justice and other Judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts.
  3. He is empowered to grant pardon, reprieves, respites or remission of punishments.
  4. The President can seek Judicial Advice on National importance according to article 143.

5. Military powers :
The President is the Supreme Commander of the armed forces in India. He apprints the chief of the staff and other officers of armed forces. He can declare war and conclude peace.

6. Diplomatic powers :
The President appoints the Ambassadors and other” diplomatic personnel abroad. He receives the credentials of Ambassadors of other countries appointed in India. He represents the Nation in International Forums. He concludes trades and agreements with the nations of the world.

Emergency Powers :
The Constitution of India empowers the President to prbdaim three kinds of emergencies.

  1. National Emergency, Article 352
  2. Constitutional Emergency, Article 356
  3. Financial Emergency, Article 360

1. National Emergency :
If the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists in the country or any part of its territory and threatened by war or external aggressions or armed rebellion, he may impose National Emergency on the written advice of the Union Council of Ministers. Such proclamation has to be approved by the Parliament with a majority of not less than 2/3rd members present and voting in each House within a month.

Then the Proclamation shall be in force for six months, it can be extended with approval of Parliament for another six months. During this emergency Union Government can issue any direction to the states and the Parliament can make Legislation on any matters included in state list Except Article 20, 21 all or any of the fundamental rights can be suspended. This type of emergency was imposed in 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1975.

2. Constitutional Emergency (President Rule):
On the receipt of a report from the Governor of a State that a situation has arrived in which the Government of that State cannot function according to the Constitutional provisions, the President may proclaim emergency in that State. It is also called as President Rule or Constitutional emergency. The effects of such a proclamation may be as follows.

a. The President may assume to himself all or any of the function of the State Government.
b. The powers of State Legislature may be exercised by the Parliament.

This emergency proclamation shall be approved by the Parliament within two months. It will be in force for a period of six months. It can be extended for another six months by the approval of the Parliament so far, Presidents Rule has been imposed more than 100 times in different states in India.

3. Financial Emergency :
Article 360, deals with Financial emergency. The President can proclaim a such emergency if he is satisfied that a situation has arisen whereby the financial stability or credit of India is threateneded.

The effects of this emergency are :

  1. The President can reduce the salaries and allowances of all.
  2. All money bills passed by any State Legislature can be reserved for the consideration of the President So far this kind of emergency has not been proclaimed in our country.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 2.
Describe the powers of Prime Minister of India.
Answer:
Introduction :
The Prime Minister is the real executive Head of the Union Government. He occupies an important position in the administration of our country. Since India has a Parliamentary form of Government the real powers rests with him. He is the ‘Uncrowned King’ and ‘The Keystone of the cabinet arch in the Union Government.

Qualifications :

  1. He should be citizen of India.
  2. He should have completed the age of 25 years.
  3. He should be qualified for election as a member of the Lok Sabha.
  4. He should not hold any office of Profit under the Union or State or Local Governments.

Appointment :
The President appoints the Prime Minister. Generally the President has to summon the Leader of the Majority party in the Lok Sabha to form the ministry. If no party gets an absolute majority the President can use his discretion and summon the leader of the party, who in his opinion can manage to form a ministry. After wards the Prime Minister will be asked to prove his majority in the Lok Sabha.

Oath of Office :
The President of India will administers the oath of office of the Prime Minister.

Term of Office :
The Prime Minister shall remain in office during the pleasure of the President. But actually he assumes his powers as long as he retains the confidence of the majority members In the Lok Sabha. He resigns when the Lok Sabha. Accepts a No. confidence motion against his ministry.

Salary and Allowances :
The salary and allowances of Prime Minister and decided by the Parliamet from time to time. He gets his salary and allowances that are payable to a member of Parliament. At present the Prime Minister gets a salary and allowances of ₹ 1,60,000/- per month.

Powers and Functions :
The Prime Minister is the head of the Union Government. He is the real executive. The council of ministers cannot exist without the Prime Minister. His powers are explained here under.

1. Leader of the Union Cabinet :
The Prime Minister is the leader of the union council of ministers. He selects some eminent members of his party in Parliament and sees that they are appointed as ministers by the President. He has a free choice of both allocating Portfolios and reshuffling the ministry. All the ministers are personally and politically loyal to the Prime Minister. He decides the agenda of the cabinet meetings. Further, he presides over the cabinet meetings.

2. Leader of the Union Government :
The Prime Minister acts as the Leader of the Union Government. The union executive (union council of ministers) initiates its business after the swearing in ceremony of the Prime Minister. All the ministers in the union ministry assume their office, owe their position and exercise their powers along with the Prime Minister. Infact, the Prime Minister influences the nature and working of the Union Government. He not only has a clear understanding but holds complete control over the affairs of the Union Government. All the high-level officers and the entire ministry in the Union Government behave and act according to the wishes of the Prime Minister.

3. Leader of the Parliament:
As the leader of the majority party in the house of people of Parliament and the head of the Government, the Prime Minister is treated as the leader of the Parliament. He informs the cabinet decisions to the Parliament. He communicates the major domestic and foreign policies of the Union Government to the members of the Parliament.

4. Link between the President and the Council of Minister :
The Prime Minister acts as the link between the President and the union council of ministers. It is his duty to communicate to the President about the decisions of the union council of Ministers. He furnishes every information required by the President concerning the affairs of the Union Government.

5. Leader of the Union Government:
The Prime Minister is the head of the Union Government. He along with his council of ministers formulates Policies and programmes and overseas planning and implementations of various projects of Government for the upliftment and development of the people and country. All the Govenment Machinery acts according to the wishes of the Prime Minister.

6. Leader of the Nation :
The Prime Minister dcts as the leader of the nation. Being the leader of Parliament and Head of the Government his statements in and outside of the Parliament are treated as important matters of the union. While touring foreign countries of the Prime Ministers represents the nation and his treatments are treated as the opionipn of the nation as a whole.

7. Maker of Foreign policy :
The Prirpe Miniser plays a dominant role in shaping the foreign policy of the nation. He keeps in touch withythe developments in all countries. He meets heads of the various countries and maintains friendly relations with them.

8. Chairman of NITI Aayog :
The Prime Miniser heads the NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) NITI Aayog means policy commssion. It is a policy think tank of Government of India that replaces planning commission which aims to involve the states in economic policy making in India. It will provide strategic and technical advice tc the Central and State Governments. It will have a governing council comprising chief ministers of all the states, and it governors of union territories. Union Government set up the NITI Aayog on January 1st 2015.

Question 3.
Explain the composition and functions of Union Council of Ministers.
Answer:
Article 74 (1) of the constitution provides for k Council of Ministers at the centre. Its main function is to aid and advice the President in the performance of his duties. It consists of Prime Minister and other minister. It is this body which runs the entire administration of our Country. It is the real executive authority of the country.

Formation of Council of Ministers :
The formation of Council of Ministers starts with appointment of the Prime Minister. The President appoints the^Prime Minister and on the advice of the Prime Minister, the other ministers and appointed by the President.

Composition of Council of Ministers :
Our constitutions did not mention the exact size of the Union Council of Ministers. But there are three kindsyaf ministers.
1. Cabinet Ministers
2. Ministers of State
3. Deputy Ministers

  1. The cabinet ministers are entrusted with the maintenance of some important ministries. They enjoy independence and decision making powers.
  2. The ministers of State act as the heads of sompjmoprtant sections in the ministry. They are directly responsible to the Prime Minister for tfUm activities.
  3. The Deputy ministers have no independent and tljflcretionary powers. They assist the cabinet ministers and perform the functions assigned to them.

Powers and Funtions :
1. Executive powers :
The union cabinet is deliberative and policy formulating body. It discusses and decides all National and International policies of the country. The policies decided by the cabinet are carried out by the ministers. It directs and leads the Parliament for action and gets its approval for all its policies.

2. Legislative powers :
The cabinet plans the legislatives programme of the Government at the beginnig of each session of Parliament. It drafts bills on all important matters and introduces them in the Parliament It also decides the time of summoning and propogation of Parliament

3. Financial powers :
It prepares the unton budgets It decides what taxes are to be imposed and how must of expenditure is to be incurred. Money bills are always introduced in the Lok Sabha by the finance minister.

4. Foreign Relation :
In the feild of forelfi relations also the cabinet palys an important role. It determines and formulates the foreign policy of the country and decides. India’s relations with other countries.

5. Collective Responsibility :
Article 75 (3) of Indian Constitution stated. That the union council of ministers shall be collectively responsible toj the L,ok sabha, for all their acts of ommisslons and commissions. They act as a team under the Leadership/ of the Prime Minister. They sail together, they swim together and they sink, together.

Conclusion :
It is thus clear than the council of; ministers (or) cabinet enjoys far reaching powers both with regard to the internal and external prides of the country. Internally it maintains law and order within the country and externally protect. The county from foreign aggression the progress of the country largely depends upon the ability of lit/cabinet.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 4.
Explain the powers and functions of Indian Parliament.
Answer:
Indain Parliament is bicameral. It consists of two Houses – Rajy Sabha and Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha or “The Council of States’ is the Upper House. It contains the representatives of the States. The Lok Sabha or ‘The House of the People’ Is the Lower House. It is a popular House and contains representatives of the people. It is the pivot of all political activity. The Parliament is the highest law-making body in our country. It has extensive povvers and performs a variety of functions which are listed below.

1. Legislative Power :
The main function of the Indian Parliament is law making. It makes laws on all the subjects mentioned in the Union List and Concurrent List. Under, certain circumstances, it also makes laws on the subjects mentioned in the State List. Further it also makes laws on the matters that are not included in any of the three lists i.e., on residuary matters.

2. Executive Powers :
Another important function of the Indian Parliament is controlling the Executive (Union Council of Ministers). Parliament controls the Executive through various ways, such as by asking questions, supplementary quetions and by introducing adjournment motions and no confidence resolutions against the Ministry. Hence the survival of the Government depends upon the will of the members in the Lower House. The executive remains in office so long as it enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha.

3. Financial Powers :
The Parliament controls the financial resources of the nation. It accepts the budget and other money bills required by the Government. Its permission is needed for the Goveminent for imposing and collecting tax and for revising the existing tax rates. In this regard the Lok Sabha has more financial powers than the Rajya Sabha. All money, bills shall at first be introduced in the Lok Sabha. The Rajya Sabha has to accept all money bills sent by the Lok Sabha within 14 days. It approves the railway budget, appropriation bill and other money bills.

4. Constitutional Powers :
The Parliament takes initiative for changing the provisions of the Constitution according to the changing times. Bills relating to the Constitution amendments may be introduced in either House. There are three methods of amending the Constitution.

5. Judicial Powers :
The Parliament has certain judicial powers and functions. It has the power to remove the President and Vice President. The procedure is called impeachment. It has also the power to recommend to the President the removal of the higher officials of the country such as the Chief justice and judges of Supreme Court, High Court and the Chairman and other members of UPS C., Chief Election Commissioner etc., for violation certain principles.

6. Electoral Powers :
The Parliament also serves as an electoral college. It participates in the election of the President and Vice President. The Speaker and Deputy Speaker who act as the presiding officers are elected by the members of Lok Sabha. The Deputy Chairman is elected by the members of the Rajya Sabha.

7. Deliberative Powers :
The Parliament acts as the highest forum and direct agency of public opinion. Its members discuss various issues of national and international significance. They demand the Government to solve the people’s problems.

8. Miscellaneous Powers :
In addition to the above, the Indian Parliament has also the power to a) Create of abolish Legislative Councils b) Change the names and boundaries of the States etc.

Conclusion :
A look at the powers and functions of the Indian Parliament shows that it is the centre of legislative activity and political activity of our country.

Question 5.
Write about the functions of Supreme Court of India.
Answer:
Functions:
Jurisdiction of the Supreme Court may be categorized as original, appellate and advisory.

i. Original Jurisdiction :
Under the jurisdiction the Supreme Court can settle disputes a) between the Centre and one or more states, b) between the centre and any state or states on the one side and one or other states on the other or c) between two or more states.

ii. Appellate Jurisdiction :
Under the appellate jurisdiction the Supreme Court can hear appeals on the following cases:
a) Constitutional cases :
An appeal can be made to the Supreme Court in cases which relate to the interpretation of the Constitution.

b) Civil Cases :
In a civil case also, an appeal can be made to the Supreme Court against a decision of a High Court. In these cases, the High Court must certify that the case involves a substantial question of law as to the interpretatin of the Constitution.

c) Criminal Cases:
An appeal can be made in the Supreme Court against any Judgement. Final order to sentence is given by a high court. In criminal matters ordinarily, the high courts are the final courts of appeal. But, the supreme court has been given the special power by the constitution to hear appeal against the decisions of high courts in criminal matters.

iii) Advisory Juridiction :
The Supreme Court has some advisory powers also. The President of India can seek the opinion of the court, if there is a question of law or fact where the interpretation of the constitution is involved. The Supreme Court may give its opinion on the President’s reference with regard to any matter.

iv. Miscellaneous Functions :
a) Court of Record:
The Supreme Court also acts as the Court of records. The judgements of the Supreme Court are recorded and considered as authoritative and serves as case laws and proceedings. These records have great evidence value for future cases.

b) Directions, Orders or Writs:
The Supreme Court is regarded as the protector of the fundamental rights of the citizens. For this purpose, it has been given the power of issuing certain writs like that of habeas corpus, mandamus, prohibition, quo warranto and certiorari. It can also issue orders and directions.

c) Contempt of Court:
The Supreme Court can punish any one who is found to be indulged in contempt of the court. Contempt of court includes criticism of a judgement of the court Criticism of judges and the court, passing derogatory remarks against the court, refusing to abide by the decisions of the court etc.

d) Review of Judgement and Order:
The Supreme Court is empowered to review any judgement given by it earlier. It can do this if a) some new facts or evidences appear, b) a fault is found according to its own record and c) there are sufficient reasons for re-review.

e) Guardian of the Constitution :
The Supreme Court of India is regarded as the guardian of the Constitution. It is the supreme or final interpreter of the Constitution. The interpretation of the Constitution given by the Supreme Court is to be respected.

f) Judicial Review :
The Supreme Court has been given the power to decide whether a law passed by the Parliament or the State Legislatures and the executive decisions take by the central or state governments is constitutional or not If such a law or executive decision in found unconstitutional, then it can be declared as invalid. The Judiciary in India is armed with the power of judicial review not only to safeguard the provisions of constitution, but also ensures that all the organs of the government function within their jurisdiction as per the spirit of the Constitution. Further, it also upholds the fundamental rights in general and right to property in particular. The Supreme Court protected the property rights from violation in the context of Golaknath and Kesavananda Bharati cases. These two cases are extremely important from the point of view of Judicial Review.

g) Public Interest Litigation:
Even, if the victim or affected parties do not file cases any one from the general public, not involved in the case may file litigation (law suit), it is in the general public interest. It is the privilege of the court to entertain or not to entertain the application for public Interest litigation.

h) Independence of Judiciary :
The Constitution of India seeks out to guarante the independence of Supreme Court of India had High Court in various ways. The conditions of services and salaries of the judges of the High Court and Supreme Court cannot be altered to effect adversely during the tenure. A judge of the Indian Supreme Court cannot be removed from office until an order is passed by the Indian President following the due process in both Houses of the Parliament of India. The resolution of Parliament has to be passed by 2/3rd majority of members present and voting in both House of Parliament

Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
What are the emergency powers of the President of India?
Answer:
Emergency Powers :
The Constitution of India empowers the President to proclaim three kinds of emergencies.

  1. National Emergency, Article 352.
  2. Constitutional Emergency, Article 356.
  3. Financial Emergency, Article 360.

1. National Emergency :
If the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists in the country or any part of its territory and threatened by war or external aggressions or armed rebelltion he may impose National Emergency on the written advice of the Union Council of Ministers. Such proclamation has to be approved by the Parliament with a majority of not less than 2/3rd members present and voting in each House within a month. Then the proclamation shall be in force for six months.

It can be extended with approval of Parliament for another six months. During this emergency Union Government can issue any direction to the states and the Parliament can make legislation on any matters included in State list. Except Article 20,21 all or any of the fundamental Rights can be suspended. This type of emergency was imposed in 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1975.

2. Constitutional Emergency (President Rule) :
On the, receipt of a report from the Governor of a State that a situation has arrived in which the Government of that State cannot function according to the Constitutional provisions, the President may proclaim emergency in that State. It is also called as President Rule or Constitutional Emergency.

The effects of such a proclamation may be as follows.
a) The President may assume to himself all or any of the function of the State Government.
b) The powers of State Legislature may be exercised by the Parliament.

This emergency proclamation shall be approved by the Parliament within two months. It will be in force for a period of six months. It can be extended for another six months by the approval of the Parliament. So far, Presidents Rule has been imposed more than 100 times in different states in India.

3. Financial Emergency :
Article 360, deals with Financial Emergency. The President can proclaim such emergency if he is satisfied that a situation has arisen whereby the financial stability or credit of India is threateneded.

The effect of this emergency are :
1)The President can reduce the salaries and allowances of all 2) All money bills passed by any State legislature can be reserved for the consideration of the President. So far this kind of emergency has not been proclaimed in our country.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 2.
What is impeachment procedure of Indian President?
Answer:
The President may be removed from the office by following a procedure called Impeachment. The Impeachment procedure is exercised in ParliamentThe Impeachment of President has the following procedure.

The impeachment resolution has to be moved in with 14 days prior notice in writing signed by not less than 1/4th of the total members of that House. Such resolution has to be passed by not less than 2/3rd of the total members of the House.

The resolution is then sent to the other House for the consideration and approval. The second house investigates the allegations and constitutes a committee to enquire into the charges. At this stage the President has the right to present his views on the charges directly or through his representative.

If the charges are established and adopted by the second house with 2/3rd majority of the total members, from that moment the President stands removed from the office.

Question 3.
Write about election of Vice – President and his Functions.
Answer:
Introduction :
The Vice-President of India occupies the second highest position in the Union Government. Article 63 to 71 import five of the Indian Constitution deal with the provisions relating to the Vice – President.

Qualifications :

  1. He should be a citizen of India.
  2. He should have completed 35 years of age.
  3. He should be qualified for election as a member of the Rajya Sabha.
  4. He should not hold any office of profit under the Union, State, or Local Government.

Election :
The Vice President of India is eledW by the members of electoral college consisting of the members of both the houses of Parliamen. In accordance with the system of proportional representation by means of the single transferrable/iote system.

Term of office :
The Vice President holds office for a term of 5 years.

Removal:
The Vice President may be remoed from his office by a resolution of the counil of states. Passed by a majority of all the then membenof the council and agreed to by the house of the people, A resolution for this purpose may be moved only after a notice of atleast at minimum of 14 days has been given of such an intention.

Salary and Allowances :
The Vice President of India recevies a monthly salary of ₹ 1,25,000/ – in addition he is entitled, to daily allowance, fret furnished residence, medical, travel and other facilities.

Powers and functions of the Vice Presiden :
The powers and functions of Vice President are two fold. They are :

  1. Ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha.
  2. Acting as the President.

1. Ex – Officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha:
The Vice President is the Ex-officio chairman of the Rajya Sabha. He presides over the meeting of the Rajy Sabha. He conducts the meetings of the Rajya Sabha. He conduct the meetings of the Rajya Sabha with dignity decency and decotum. He gives rulings in the meetings and allows the members to express their views on the bill and announces the results. He sends all those bills accepted by the Rajya Sabha to the Lok Sabha with his Signature. He Safeguards the privileges and amenities of the memb rs of Rajya Sabha.

2. Acting as the President :
The Vice President ats as the President in the event of a vacancy by reason of death, resignation, removal or otherwise the Vice-President act as the President for a period of not exceeding six months.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 4.
What is collective responsibility? Explain.
Answer:
Collective Responsibility:
Article 75 (3) of Indin Constitution stated that the union council of ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha, Ur all their acts of ommissions and commissions.

They act as a team under the leadership of the Prime Minister. They Sail together, they swim together and they sink together.

Question 5.
Explain the functions of speaker of Lok Sabha.
Answer:
The office of the Speaker in India has been borrowed from the British Parliament. Articles 93 to 97 of the Constitution deal with the office of the Speaker o Lok Sabha. The Speaker acts as head of the Lok Sabha.

1. Qualification :
A person elected as the Speaker must be a member of the Lok Sabha.

2. Election :
The members of the Lok Sabha elected the Speaker from among themselves. No-mally there is a convention that the speakership is left to the party in power.

3. Term of office :
Speaker of the Lok Sabha normally hold his office for the term of 5 years. The Speaker continues in his office even, after the disolution of the House. He holds his office until the new Speaker is elected.

4. Salary and Allowances :
The Speakereceives a monthly salary of ₹ 1,25,000. Besides, he is provided with rent free residence, medical, traveling and communication facilities.

5. Removal:
The Speaker may be removd from office by a resolution of the House supported by the majority of members present and voting. Fourteen clear days notice must be given. During debate on a motion for the removal of the Speaker, he does not preside over the session of house. But, he may take part in its proceedings. No Speakerin India has ever been removed till now.

6. Powers and functions of the Speaker :
The constitution of India provided considerable powers to the Speaker in discharging functions properly and efficiently.
The Speaker performs various functions aid enjoys wide powers drawn partly form the Constitution, and partly from the rules, procedure and induct of bussiness Parliament -1950 functions are as follows.

  • The Speaker presides over the meetings of the Lok Sabha.
  • He allows members to ask questions, le has also the power to disallow in the case they are not in conformity with the rules of the house.
  • Adjournment motions are moved with his consent. He also prescribes the time limit for speeches on the motion.
  • The Speaker may allow the publicatioi of a bill in the gazette of India up on a request from a member initiating the bill even before the motion for leave to introduce the bill has been mode. In such a case it does not remin necessary to ask for leave of the house to introduce the bill.
  • He appoints the chairman of selectiol committee. He himself is Ex-officio chairman of some vital committees, such as rules comnittee the bussiness advisory committe and the general purpose committee.
  • He decides about the admissibility of a motion in this House.
  • No member can address the house without his permission. He also to see that the no mem ber makes an irrelevant speech and there by wastes the time of the House.
  • He preserves the order in the house. If the situation goes out of control he can adjournment and suspend the meeting of his house.
  • If a member disregards his authority in spite of warning he can name him for suspension in case a member does not leave the House on the order of the Speakers, the Speaker can ask the ward staff to him bodily and remove him from the House.
  • He exercise his vote in case of ape over a bill.
  • He presides over the joint session of the Parliament.
  • He has a privilege of determining whether a bill is money bill or not.

Question 6.
Write about judicial Review of Supreme Court.
Answer:
The Supreme Court has been given the power to decide whether a law passed by the Parliament or the State Legislatures and executive decisions taken by the Central or State Governments is constitutional or not. If such a Law or Executive decision is found unconstitutional, then it can be declared as invalid. The Judiciary in India is armed with the power of Judicial Review not only to safeguard the provisions of Constitution but also ensures that all the organs of the Government function within their Jurisdiction as per the spirit of the Constitution. Further it also upholds the Fundamental Rights in general and Right to property in particular. The Supreme Court protected the property Rights from violation in the Context of Golaknath and Kesavananda Bharathi cases. These two cases are extremely important from the point of View of Judicial Review.

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Composition of Electoral College.
Answer:
Electoral College is a body that elects the Indian President.
The Following are the members of Electoral College:
a) Elected members of both Houses of Parliament i.e., 238 from Rajya Sabha and 543 from Lok Sabha 781.
b) Elected members of State Legislative Assemblies and
c) Elected members of Legislative Assemblies of Delhi and Pondicheri.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 2.
Difference between ordinary bill and money bill?
Answer:

Ordinary Bills Money Bills
1. Ordinary bills pertain to non economic and administrative affairs of the Government. 1. Money bills pertain to Financial affairs of the Government.
2. President’s prior permission is not required for introducing these bills in parliament. 2. President prior permission is required to present the bills in Parliament.
3. Speakers certification is not required. 3. Speaker certifies that the bill is a money bill before sending to the President.
4. These bills can be introduced in either house of the Parliament. 4. These bills shall be introduced only in Lok Sabha.
5. If there is no unanimity between two houses in passing the bill, joint sitting of both houses will be summoned by the President of India. 5. There will be no joint sitting of both houses. If die bill Is not passed by Rajya Sabha, the Lok Sabha has to pass it second time.

Question 3.
The composition of Union Council of Ministers.
Answer:
India has the three tier ministry consisting of

i) Cabinet Ministers,
ii) Ministers of State
iii) The Deputy Ministers.

  1. The cabinet ministers entrusted the maintenance of some important ministries. They enjoy independence and decision making power.
  2. The ministers of State acts as Heads of Some important Sections in the ministry. They are directly responsible to the Prime Minister for their activities.
  3. The Deputy ministers have no independent and discretionary powers. They assist the cabinet ministers and perform the functions assigned to them.

Question 4.
Legislative powers of President.
Answer:
The President of India performs the following Legislative powers.

  1. He summons and prorogues the meetings of the Parliament.
  2. He dissolves the Lok Sabha.
  3. He inaugurates the first session and annual session of the Parliament
  4. He nominates two (2) Anglo-Indian members to the Lok Sabha and twelve (12) members to the Rajya Sabha.
  5. He convenes of joint sitting of the two houses incase of a disagreement on a bill.
  6. He proclaims ordinances during the interval of Parliament

Question 5.
National Emergency.
Answer:
If the President is satisfied that a grave emergency exists in the country or any part of its territory and threatened by war or external aggression or armed rebillion, he may impose National Emergency as per Article 352 of the constitution on the written advice of the Union Council of Ministers. This type of emergency was imposed in 1962,1965,1971 and 1975.

Question 6.
Constitutional Emergency in a State.
Answer:
According to Article 356, the President can declare a Constitutional emergency in a State. This is known as “President’s Rule”. The President declares this type of emergency on the receipt of a report from the Governor or otherwise that a situation has arisen in which the Government of the State cannot be carried on in accordance with the Constitution. During the ‘President’s Rule, Parliament will make laws for the State and the Government in the State will be dismissed.

Question 7.
Powers of Lok Sabha Speaker
Answer:

  1. The Speaker presides over the meetings of the Lok Sabha.
  2. He exercises his vote in case of a tie over a bill.
  3. He presides over the joint session of the Parliament.
  4. He has a privilege of determining whether a bill is Money Bill or Not.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 3 Union Government

Question 8.
Composition of Rajya Sabha.
Answer:
Article 80 of the Constitution lays down the maximum strength of Rajya Sabha as 250 out of which 12 members are nominated by the President and 238 are Representatives of the states and the Union Territories of Delhi and Pondicheri.

Question 9.
Composition of Lok Sabha.
Answer:
Lok Sabha is the Lower House or popular chamber in Indian Parliament. Its maximum strength is 550. It comprises members belonging to the i) states and ii) Union territories. At present there are 543 members. 524 represents the states and 19 members hail from the union territories. Nomination of two Anglo Indian members to the Lok Sabha done away through 104th Constitutional Amendment.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Telangana TSBIE TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 2nd Lesson Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy Textbook Questions and Answers.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material 2nd Lesson Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Long Answer Questions

Question 1.
Explain the Fundamental Rights as incorporated in the Indian constitution.
Answer:
Fundamental Rights are one of the salient features of the Indian Constitution. They were borrowed from American Constitution. They are incorporated in our constitution under Part-IIl Articles from 12 to 35. They are six in number, which can be explained as follows.

  1. Right to Equality (Articles 14-18)
  2. Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22)
  3. Right to Against Exploitation (Articles 23 and 24)
  4. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25 and 28)
  5. Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29 and 30)
  6. Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)

The 44th Constitutional Amendment passed by the Parliament in 1978, has excluded the Right to Property from the list of Fundamental Rights. Hence, we have at present, only six Fundamental Rights. They are:

1) Right to Equality (Articles 14-18) :
Article 14 guarantees equality before law to all persons. There can be no special privilege to any individual. All those who violate laws are given the same punishment. Article 15prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them. Article 16 provides equality of opportunity in the matter of public employment. Articlel 7 abolishes untouchability and makes its practice in any form an offence. Article 18 prohibits the State from conferring any title except a military or academic distinction.

2) Right to Freedom (Articles 19-22):
Article 19 is the most important part of the Constitution. It guarantees 6 freedoms to the citizens. They are :

  • Freedom of speech and expression.
  • Freedom to assemble peacefully and without arms.
  • Freedom to form associations or unions.
  • Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India.
  • Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.
  • Freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any occupation.

Article 20 says that a person shall be convicted only for violating an existing law.

Article 21 says that no person shall be deprived of his life and liberty except according to the procedure established by law.

Article 22 provides that every person should be informed the cause of his arrest.

3) Right to Against Exploitation (Articles 23 and 24):
Article 23 prohibits traffic in human beings and forced labour. Article 24 says that no child below the age of 14 years, shall be employed in any factory, mine or engaged in any other dangerous work.

4) Right to Freedom of Religion :
Article 25 gives all people freedom of conscience, and right to profess, practise and propagate any religion.

Article 26 permits religious denominations or organisations to manage their own affairs in matters of religion.

Article 27 lays down that no person shall be compelled to pay any tax for promotion or maintenance of any religion.

Article 28 says that no religious instruction shall be provided in any educational institution wholly maintained out of State funds.

5) Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29 and 30) :
Article 29 guarantees to every citizen to conserve his own language, script or culture. Article 30 provides that all minorities whether based on religion or language shall have the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

6) Right to Constitutional Remedies(Article 32):
Article 32 deals with the right to Constitutional remedies. The citizens of India can protect their Fundamental Rights through this right only. This right enables the individuals to approach a High Court under Article 226 or the Supreme Court under Article 32 to get any of the Fundamental Rights Restored in case of their violation. The Supreme Court and the State High Courts issue various writs for the implementation of Fundamental Rights. Dr.Ambedkar described this right as the Heart and Soul of the Constitution.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Question 2.
Explain the Directive Principles of State Policy.
Answer:
Directive Principles of State Policy are enumerated in Articles from 36 to 51 in Part – IV of the Indian Constitution. They are borrowed from the Irish Constitution. They help in realizing the objectives mentioned in the preamble.

Types of Directive Principles of State Policy :
Directive principles can be classified into three broad categories namely., Socialistic, Liberal-intellectual and Gandhian principles.

Article 36 defines the term “State”.

Article 37 declares that the Directive principles shall not be enforceable by any court.

I. Socialist Principles :
Articles 38, 39, 41, 42, 43, and 47 explains about the socialistic ideology of the Directive Principles of State Policy.
1) Article 38 prescribes that the state shall strive to provide Justice and promote welfare of the people by veeating a proper economic, social and political atmosphere.

2) Article 39 directs the state to secure its citizens.

  • Adequate means of livelihood for all citizens.
  • Equitable distribution of wealth for subserving the common good.
  • Equal pay for equal work for all.
  • Protection of adult and child labour.
  • Decentralization of nation’s wealth.
  • Preserving the health and strength of workers, men and women.
  • Protecting childhood and youth against exploitation.

3) To secure right to work and education for all people, relief in the case of unemployment; old age, sickness and disablement and in other cases of underserved want(Article 41);

4) To make provision for just and human conditions of work and maternity relief (Article 42);

5) To secure living wage and decent standard of life so as to ensure to the workers sufficient leisure and enjoyment of social and cultural opportunities(Article 43).

6) Raising the level of.nutrition and standard of living of the people and the improvement of public health(Article 47).

2. Liberal-intellectual principles :
The principles represent the ideology of liberalism and certain objectives like provision of basic education, uniform civil code, independent judiciary and international peace. They are incorporated in Articles 44, 45, 50 and 51 of the Constitution.

  1. The State shall secure for the citizens uniform civil code throughout the country(Article 44).
  2. The State shall provide free and compulsory education for all the children below 14 years of age. The Constitution (Eighty Sixth Amendment) Act,2002 substituted the following words in Article 45. “The State shall endeavor to provide early childhood care and education for all children until they complete the age of six years”(Article 45).
  3. The State organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern and scientific lines (Article 48).
  4. The State protect monuments which are declared to be of national importance (Article 49).
  5. The State protect and improve the environment and to safeguard forests and wild life (Article 48A).
  6. The State shall take steps to separate judiciary from executive in public services of the State (Article50).
  7. The State shall
    (a) Promote international peace, justice and security.
    (b) Maintain just and honorable relations with other nations.
    (c) Protection of monuments and place of historical and cultural interest.
    (d) Respect for international laws and treaty obligations; and
    (e) Encourage settlement of international dispute by arbitration (Article 51).

3. Gandhian Principles :
These Principles are based on gandhian ideology. They represent the programme of reconstruction enunciated by Mahatma Gandhi during the national movement. These principles provide ideal rule in India. They are reflected in Articles 40, 43, 46 and 47. They . may be enumerated as under.

  1. The State shall organize village Panchayats and endow them with adequate powers and authority so as to enable them to function as the units of self-government (Article 40).
  2. The State shall strive for the promotion of cottage industries on individual or cooperative basis in rural areas (Article 43).
  3. The State shall promote the educational and economic interests of the SCs, STs and BCs of society with special care (Article 46).
  4. The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health (Article 47).

Other Principles :
The Constitution (Forty Second and Forty Fourth Amendment) Acts of 1976 and 1978 added a few more subjects to the list of Directive Principles. While the Constitution (FortySecond Amendment) Act inserted Articles 39A, 43A and 48A, the Constitution (Forty Fourth Amendment) Act included Article 39 Clause (2). They comprise the following provisions.

  1. Providing opportunities for healthy development of children.
  2. Promotion of equal justice and legal aid to the poor.
  3. Securing participation of workers in the management of industries.
  4. Protecting the environment, forests and wild animals.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Question 3.
What are the differences between Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy?
Answer:
Fundamental rights and Directive principles of State Policy are two important features of the Indian constitution, both are important from the social perspective. They differ from one another as under.

Fundamental Rights Directive Principles of State Policy
1. Fundamental Rights are negative in nature. The State restrained from doing something detrimental to the individual. DPSP are positive in nature. The State’s activity to transform the socially and Economically.
2. These are Justifiable in courts. Courts issue writ orders for implementation of these FRs under Article 32. DPSP are not justifiable. Courts cannot compel the government of implement them.
3. Article 13 states that any law or order made violating the provisions of FRs become void. No law will be declared void on the ground that, it violated DPSR
4. FRs concerned about the citizens and protects the individual liberty and life. DPSP are aimed at development and welfare of the nation in social, political and economic aspects.
5. Whenever a conflict aris between FRs and DPSp, FRs override DPSP. DPSP cannot override Fundamental Rights of an individual.
6. These are enumerated in Part III of constitution Articles from 12 to 35. These are enumerated in Part IV of Constitution Articles from 36 to 51.
7. No Separate Legislation is required to enact or implement the Fundamental Rights. To implement the DPSP, separate Legislation is to be passed.
8. These are orders to the state and successive governments from the constitution. These are the advises for successive governments for implementation of the special and ideals of constitution makers.
9. Whoever be in the, government, FRs shall be implemented. DPSP can be implemented according to the will and wish of the persons in government Because there may be constraints in implementation like lack of resources, opposition from various groups etc.
10. The concept of Fundamental Rights was borrowed from the American Constitution. The concept of Directive principles of State Policy was borrowed from the Irish Constitution.

 

Very Short Answer Questions

Question 1.
Right to Equality.
Answer:
Articles 14 to 18 deals with this Right Article 14 guarantees equality before law to all persons. These can be no special privillege to any individual. All those who violate laws are given the same punishment. Article 15 prohibits discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them. Article 16 provides equality of opportunity in the matter of public employment Article 17 abolishes untouchability and makes its practice in any form an offence. Article 18 prohibits the State from conferring any title except a military or academic distinction.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Question 2.
Right to Freedom.
Answer:
Right to freedom (Articles 19 – 22): Articles 19 to 22 deals with this Right. Article 19 is the most important part of the Constitution. It guarantees 6 freedoms to the citizens. They are :

  1. Freedom of speech and expression.
  2. Freedom to assemble peacefully and without arms.
  3. Freedom to form associations or unions.
  4. Freedom to move freely throughout the territory of India.
  5. Freedom to reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.
  6. Freedom to practice any profession or to carry on any occupation.

Article 20 says that a person shall be convicted only for violating an existing law.

Article 21 says that no person shall be deprived of his life and liberty except according to the procedure established by law.

Article 22 provides that every person should be informed the cause of his arrest.

Question 3.
Right to Religion.
Answer:
This Rights denotes the Secular Nature of Indian Political System. It aims at transforming India into a secular state. Both the citizens and Aliens of India enjoy this Rights. Articles from 25 to 28 in Part – III of Indian constitution deals with Right to freedom of Religion. This Right enables the individuals to profess, practice and propagate any religion according to their conscience.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Question 4.
Gandhian ideas in Directive principles.
Answer:

  1. The State shall organize village panchayats and endow them with adequate powers and au thority so as to enable them to function as the units of self-government (Article 40).
  2. The State shall strive for the promotion of cottage industries on individuals or cooperative basis in Rural areas (Article 45).
  3. The State shall promote the Educational and Economic interests of the SCs, STs and BCs of society with special care (Article 46).
  4. The State shall endeavour to bring about prohibition of intoxicating drinks and of drugs which are injurious to health (Article 47).

Question 5.
Socialistic Principles in directive principles.
Answer:
These are added in the Directive Principles for achieving the objective of establishing a welfare State in India. Articles38, 39, 41, 42, 43, 46 and 47 explains about the socialist ideology of the Directive Principles.
Ex: i) State shall strive; to promote the welfare of the people by protecting social order.
ii) State shall provide provisions of adequate means of. livelihood.
iii) Distribution of material resources for subserving the common good.

Question 6.
Any four Fundamental Duties.
Answer:

  1. To Abide by the Constitution, Respect its ideals and Institutions, the National Flag, and the National Anthem.
  2. To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national movement.
  3. To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India.
  4. To defend the country and render National Service when called upon to do so.

TS Inter 2nd Year Political Science Study Material Chapter 2 Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy

Question 7.
Right to constitutional remedies.
Answer:
Article -32 states thievery citizen has the right to move the supreme court by appropriate proceedings for the enforcement of the rights conferred by this part is guaranteed.

The Supreme Court shall have the power to issue directions or orders or writs in the nature of Habeas Corpus. Mandamus, Prohibition, Quo Warranto, and Certiorari whichever may be appropriate for the enforcement of any of the rights conferred by this part.