Question

Different arguments are usually put forth in favour of and against power sharing. Identify those which are in favour of power sharing and select the answer using the codes given below. Power sharing:
I. reduces conflict among different communities.
II. decreases the possibility of arbitrariness.
III. delays decision-making process.
IV. accommodates diversities.
V. increases instability and divisiveness.
VI. promotes people's participation in government.
VII. undermines the unity of a country.

• A. I, II, IV, VI
• B. I, III, V, VI
• C. I, II, IV, VII
• D. II, III, IV, VII

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

I, II, IV, VI

Arguments in favor of power sharing:

I) reduces conflict among different communities - power sharing ensures that every member of every community gets a voice in the affairs of the country.

II) decreases possibility of arbitrariness - power sharing ensures that decisions are not taken in favor of a majority community by sacrificing or ignoring the needs of other communities.

IV) accommodates diversities - power sharing brings about cultural richness to the country, for example, India.

VI) promotes people's participation in government - power sharing encourages participation of the common people in decision-making processes, for example, the Right to Information Act of 2005 in India which aims to make government functioning more transparent by eliciting participation of the people.