CBSE Class 9 Social Science Electoral Politics NCERT Solutions

Solution: The false sentiment among the given options is (c) Elections enable people to evaluate the performance of the judiciary. Elections are primarily designed to allow citizens to choose their representatives and hold the government accountable for its actions and policies, not to assess the performance of the judicial system.

Solution: The statement that does not necessarily indicate that Indian elections are democratic is (a) India has the largest numbers of voters in the world. While a large electorate is a feature of India, the democratic nature of elections is more accurately reflected by principles like universal adult suffrage (everyone above 18 can vote), the authority and impartiality of the Election Commission, and the acceptance of election results by all political parties, including those who lose.

Solution: Here is the correct matching of the statements:

1. a. It is necessary to keep the voters list up to date because iv. some people may have moved away from the area where they voted last. (This ensures the list is accurate and only eligible, current residents vote.)
2. b. Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that i. there is a fair representation of all sections of our society. (Reservations aim to ensure marginalized communities have a voice.)
3. c. Everyone has one and only one vote so that ii. everyone has equal opportunity to elect their representative. (This upholds the principle of equality in voting.)
4. d. Party in power is not allowed to use government vehicles because iii. all candidates must have a fair chance of competing in elections. (This prevents the ruling party from gaining an unfair advantage using state resources.)

Solution: The election-related activities, arranged in chronological order, are as follows:

1. Making of voters' list (Preparation of the electoral roll)
2. Announcing election schedule (Notification of election dates)
3. Filing nomination (Candidates submit their applications)
4. Election campaign (Parties and candidates promote their platforms)
5. Releasing election manifestos (Parties outline their promises)
6. Casting of votes (The actual polling day)
7. Counting of votes (Tabulation of votes cast)
8. Declaration of election results (Announcement of winners)
9. Ordering of re-poll (If necessary, due to irregularities)

Solution: As the officer-in-charge, Surekha must ensure that all electoral processes are conducted fairly and transparently. Her focus for each stage would be:

a. Election campaign: Surekha should monitor that all political parties and candidates adhere strictly to the Election Commission's code of conduct. This includes ensuring that campaigns are conducted within the permitted times, that no hate speech or personal attacks are made against opponents, that government resources are not misused for campaigning, and that rules regarding public meetings, rallies, and the use of loudspeakers are followed. She must also ensure that no form of intimidation or bribery is used to influence voters.

b. Polling day: On polling day, Surekha's primary focus is to facilitate a smooth and secure voting process. She needs to ensure that polling stations are set up correctly, that security personnel are deployed effectively to maintain order, and that the voting equipment functions properly. It is crucial to prevent any form of malpractice, such as impersonation, booth capturing, or voter intimidation. She must ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to cast their vote without fear or hindrance and that the secrecy of the ballot is maintained.

c. Counting day: During the counting of votes, Surekha's responsibility is to oversee a meticulous and impartial counting process. She must ensure that the counting agents of all candidates are present and that the counting is done according to the established procedures. Any discrepancies or disputes that arise must be handled fairly and promptly. The final results must accurately reflect the votes cast, and the declaration of results should be done only after all counting is completed and verified, maintaining the integrity of the electoral outcome.