Question

Write a short note on power-sharing

Answer 1

Power-sharing is a vital ingredient of any constitution. Power-sharing makes sure that there is an optimum balance between different sections in the society. Each and every state should have some forms of power-sharing. The chances of controversies and opportunity to every citizen increases. Power-sharing has its own value in democracy. This ensures the stability of political order.

Forms of power sharing

There are different forms of power-sharing in modern democracies which are listed below

• Horizontal distribution of power – Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and judiciary. Example – India This distribution ensures that none of the organs can exercise and utilise unlimited power. Each and every organ keeps an eye on the others. This system of arrangement is called a system of checks and balances.
• The federal division of power – Power can be shared among governments at different levels. A general central government for the entire country and governments at the provincial or state and regional level. Example – India Union Government that is central government & State Government.
• Community government – Power can also be shared among different socially active groups such as the religious and linguistic groups. Example – Belgium
• Power-sharing between political parties, pressure groups and movements – This kind of power-sharing competition ensures that power does not remain in one single hand. For longer duration, power is shared among different political parties that represent different ideologies and social groups.