Question

Explain the following with regard to democracy:

• Three merits and demerits of democracy.
• Two essential conditions for the success of democracy.
• Four challenges to democracy in India.

Answer 1

Merits of democracy

• Responsible and accountable government
• Sense of responsibility among common people
• Promotes values like equality and fraternity

Demerits of democracy

• Lack of interest in the democratic process, and hence lower turnout in elections
• Instability in governance due to fractured mandate
• Delay in decision-making process

Conditions for the success of democracy in India

• Empowerment of the poor and illiterates to enjoy the goodness of democracy
• Willingness among the elected leaders to not misuse their powerful position and public wealth

Challenges to democracy in India

• Casteism and communalism
• Criminalisation of politics
• Illiteracy
• Poverty