CBSE Class 10 Social Science Democratic Politics – II: Power Sharing NCERT Solutions

In modern democracies, power is shared in several ways to ensure representation and prevent the concentration of authority. The main forms are:

1. Horizontal division of power: This involves sharing power among different organs of the government that are placed at the same level. These organs are typically the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. Each organ exercises different powers, and importantly, each organ can check the powers of the others. This system creates a balance and prevents any single organ from becoming too powerful. Example: In India, the Parliament (legislature), the Prime Minister and the Cabinet (executive), and the Supreme Court (judiciary) operate under this principle, with each having distinct roles and the ability to oversee the others.
2. Vertical division of power: This form of power sharing occurs among governments at different levels. Typically, there is a general government for the entire country (often called the central or federal government) and governments at provincial or regional levels (like state governments). Power is divided between these levels, with each level having its own specific areas of authority. Example: The Indian Constitution clearly delineates powers between the Union Government and the State Governments. For instance, defence and foreign affairs are handled by the Union Government, while law and order and agriculture are primarily state subjects.
3. Power sharing among social groups: Power can be shared among different social groups, particularly those based on language, religion, or caste. This ensures that minority groups also have a voice and representation in governance. Example: Belgium's system of 'community government', where people belonging to one language community elect their representatives and have power over cultural, educational, and language issues, is a key example. In India, the system of reserved constituencies in legislatures for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes is another illustration.
4. Power sharing between political parties, pressure groups, and movements: In a multi-party democracy, power is shared through competition among various political parties. Citizens choose their representatives from different parties, ensuring that power is not monopolized. Pressure groups and social movements also influence government decisions by lobbying, campaigning, or participating in policy-making committees. Example: The existence of multiple political parties like the BJP and Congress in India, and the influence of groups like trade unions or business associations on government policies, demonstrate this form of power sharing.

Power sharing is crucial for both practical and ethical reasons. Here are examples from the Indian context:

Prudential Reason: A key prudential reason for power sharing is that it helps to prevent conflict between different social groups and ensures political stability. When various groups feel represented and have a stake in governance, the likelihood of social unrest, violence, and political instability decreases significantly.

Example in India: The Indian Constitution provides for reserved constituencies in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). This measure ensures that these historically marginalized communities have political representation and their concerns are addressed, thereby contributing to social harmony and stability.

Moral Reason: A moral reason for power sharing is that it is the very essence of democracy. In a true democracy, citizens have the right to participate in the decision-making process, and power sharing upholds this fundamental principle. It acknowledges that all citizens, regardless of their background, have a legitimate claim to be involved in shaping the policies that affect their lives.

Example in India: India's vibrant political landscape, with regular elections, freedom of speech, and the right to form political parties and movements, allows citizens to actively participate in governance. People can debate government policies, criticize decisions, and organize to influence the government, embodying the moral imperative of democratic participation and power sharing.