Political Parties · Class 10 Political Science: 225 MCQs with answers

Showing 200 of 225 multiple-choice questions from this kit.

Warm-up · 7 questions

Q1. Which of these describes the ruling party?

Beginner
A the political party that runs the government B the party with the most registered members C the party recognised by the Election Commission D the oldest party in the legislature
Show answer & explanation

the political party that runs the government

It is the party in government. Its programme is expected to guide the policies pursued while it holds office.

Q2. What is a political party, and what are its three components?

Beginner
Show answer & explanation

—

Q3. Which country is given as the example of a one-party system?

Beginner
A China B the United Kingdom C India D the United States of America
Show answer & explanation

China

Only the Communist Party is allowed to rule there.

Q4. Which two countries are given as examples of a two-party system?

Beginner
A India and China B Canada and Japan C the USA and the UK D Spain and South Korea
Show answer & explanation

the USA and the UK

In both, power usually changes between two main parties.

Q5. What percentage of total votes is required for recognition as a State party?

Beginner
A two per cent B ten per cent C six per cent D fifteen per cent
Show answer & explanation

six per cent

Along with at least two seats in that State's Legislative Assembly.

Q6. What is a national party, and how many are recognised in India?

Beginner
Show answer & explanation

—

Q7. Name the four challenges faced by political parties.

Beginner
Show answer & explanation

—

Building up · 52 questions

Q8. A debating team must define a political party in one sentence. Which definition is correct?

Intermediate
A Any organised group holding political opinions B A group that pressures the government from outside C People organise a political party to win elected office and use government power to carry out a shared programme. D A body recognised by the legislature to debate laws
Show answer & explanation

People organise a political party to win elected office and use government power to carry out a shared programme.

Party members support a set of public policies, argue that these serve society, and ask voters for the authority to implement them.

Q9. Which country illustrates member-and-supporter involvement in candidate selection in NCERT's comparison?

Intermediate
A India B the USA C China D the United Kingdom
Show answer & explanation

the USA

NCERT describes US selection as involving party members and supporters; in India, senior party leaders choose candidates. Member-based selection has spread to additional countries.

Q10. Which body actually takes the big policy decisions of a government?

Intermediate
A the legislature as a whole B the political executive, which comes from the political parties C the Election Commission D the pressure groups
Show answer & explanation

the political executive, which comes from the political parties

Parties recruit and prepare leaders for ministerial responsibility. The political executive drawn from them makes major policy decisions.

Q11. A party that has just lost a general election organises protests and questions the government's spending. Which function is it performing?

Intermediate
A forming the government B contesting elections C They scrutinise rulers, offer competing views and organise criticism of failures or unsuitable policies. D providing access to welfare schemes
Show answer & explanation

They scrutinise rulers, offer competing views and organise criticism of failures or unsuitable policies.

Losing an election gives a party a different function, not none.

Q12. What keeps parties responsive to people's needs and demands?

Intermediate
A A law requiring them to hold public hearings B Supervision by the courts C Their own internal constitutions D Voters can withdraw electoral support when a party ignores their demands.
Show answer & explanation

Voters can withdraw electoral support when a party ignores their demands.

The seventh function comes with this discipline attached.

Q13. What change over the last hundred years does the chapter record about parties worldwide?

Intermediate
A That most countries have abolished them B That their number has stayed the same C That they exist only in developed countries D NCERT contrasts a period when parties existed in relatively few countries with their later spread across countries of different sizes, histories and development levels.
Show answer & explanation

NCERT contrasts a period when parties existed in relatively few countries with their later spread across countries of different sizes, histories and development levels.

NCERT contrasts a period when parties existed in relatively few countries with their later spread across countries of different sizes, histories and development levels.

Q14. Which statement about how parties select candidates is correct?

Intermediate
A Every democracy uses the same method B In some countries members and supporters choose, while in others the top party leaders do C Candidates are chosen by the Election Commission D Candidates are chosen by the outgoing legislature
Show answer & explanation

In some countries members and supporters choose, while in others the top party leaders do

The USA follows the first method and more countries are adopting it; India follows the second.

Q15. State any three functions performed by political parties.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q16. Describe what would happen in a democracy without political parties.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q17. State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — parties contest elections; candidates chosen by members in the USA and by top leaders in India. 1 mark — parties put forward policies and programmes, reducing many opinions into a few basic positions. 1 mark — parties play a decisive role in making laws, members following the party leadership.…

Q18. Why are political parties described as a necessary condition for a democracy? Support your answer with reasons and evidence.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — without parties every candidate would be independent. 1 mark — no one could make promises about major policy changes; the government's utility would remain uncertain. 1 mark — accountability would be local only, with no one responsible for how the country is run. 1 mark — the panchayat evidenc…

Q19. 'Political parties are the most visible institution in a democracy and also among the most criticised.' Examine this statement and explain how the chapter answers the criticism.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — parties are the most visible institution; for ordinary citizens democracy equals political parties. 1 mark — visibility does not mean popularity; people blame parties for what is wrong with democracy. 1 mark — parties have become identified with social and political divisions. 1 mark — partisa…

Q20. In India's multiparty system, how is the government usually formed?

Intermediate
A by various parties coming together in a coalition B by the single largest party alone C by the Election Commission nominating a party D by rotation among the recognised parties
Show answer & explanation

by various parties coming together in a coalition

This follows from more than two parties having a reasonable chance of power.

Q21. Which set correctly names the three major alliances of the 2004 parliamentary elections?

Intermediate
A the NDA, the UPA and the Janata Front B the Congress Front, the Janata Dal and the Left Front C the NDA, the Third Front and the Popular Front D three groupings — the National Democratic Alliance, the United Progressive Alliance, the Left Front
Show answer & explanation

three groupings — the National Democratic Alliance, the United Progressive Alliance, the Left Front

Three alliances contested that election, which is itself a mark of a multiparty system.

Q22. What is the advantage the chapter credits the multiparty system with?

Intermediate
A allowing a variety of interests and opinions to enjoy political representation B stable single-party governments C lower election expenditure D faster passage of laws
Show answer & explanation

allowing a variety of interests and opinions to enjoy political representation

The chapter gives the disadvantage and this advantage in the same breath, and a complete answer needs both.

Q23. Which set correctly names what a party system depends on?

Intermediate
A the size of the population, the currency, the language and the climate B social conditions, regional divisions, the course of political history and electoral arrangements C the Constitution, the courts, the press and the army D the number of registered parties and the election budget
Show answer & explanation

social conditions, regional divisions, the course of political history and electoral arrangements

Each country develops a party system conditioned by its special circumstances.

Q24. In which respect does India stand higher than Canada, Japan, Spain and South Korea?

Intermediate
A in trust in political parties B in the number of registered parties per voter C in voter turnout at every election D in the proportion of people saying they are members of some political party
Show answer & explanation

in the proportion of people saying they are members of some political party

The level of participation in party activities was found to be fairly high, against low trust.

Q25. What is the purpose for which parties join hands in an alliance?

Intermediate
A to merge into a single party B to contest elections and win power C to obtain recognition from the Election Commission D to share a common election symbol permanently
Show answer & explanation

to contest elections and win power

Both purposes are named together, which is what distinguishes an alliance from a merger.

Q26. Why does the number of registered parties tell us little about a country's party system?

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q27. What is a one-party system, and why is it not considered a good option?

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q28. Explain the two-party system with examples.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q29. Describe the three kinds of party systems with examples, and state the merits and demerits of each.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — the classification turns on how many parties can take power, not how many exist. 1 mark — one-party system defined, with China as the example. 1 mark — one-party system is not a democratic option; a democracy must allow at least two parties to compete with a fair chance of power. 1 mark — two-…

Q30. 'Which party system is best?' Explain why the chapter treats this as the wrong question.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — the chapter's own answer: this is not a very good question. 1 mark — a country cannot simply pick a party system; it grows up over many years. 1 mark — any two of: nature of society, social and regional divisions, history of politics, system of elections. 1 mark — these cannot be changed quick…

Q31. Examine the claim that political parties are in crisis because citizens have become indifferent to them.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — the claim stated: parties are said to be in crisis through unpopularity and indifference. 1 mark — the evidence comes from large sample surveys over several decades, and the belief is only partly true for India. 1 mark — trust is low in South Asia: more say 'not much' or 'not at all' than 'som…

Q32. Which party was founded to advance political representation for the bahujan samaj?

Intermediate
A the Bahujan Samaj Party B the Indian National Congress C the Bharatiya Janata Party D the Aam Aadmi Party
Show answer & explanation

the Bahujan Samaj Party

The bahujan samaj includes the dalits, adivasis, OBCs and religious minorities.

Q33. The BJP was founded in 1980 by reviving which earlier party, and who had formed it?

Intermediate
A the Swatantra Party, formed by C. Rajagopalachari B the Janata Party, formed in 1977 C the Praja Socialist Party, formed in 1952 D the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, formed by Syama Prasad Mukherjee in 1951
Show answer & explanation

the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, formed by Syama Prasad Mukherjee in 1951

The BJP came to power in 1998 as leader of the National Democratic Alliance.

Q34. Which term names the guiding philosophy the BJP draws from Deendayal Upadhyaya?

Intermediate
A bahujan samaj B integral humanism C revolutionary democracy D Marxism-Leninism
Show answer & explanation

integral humanism

Along with Antyodaya, and with cultural nationalism or Hindutva as an important element in its conception of Indian nationhood.

Q35. Where does the CPI-M enjoy strong support, and among whom?

Intermediate
A Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, among traders B Punjab and Haryana, among landowners C Gujarat and Maharashtra, among industrialists D West Bengal, Kerala and Tripura; its supporters include workers, farmers, agricultural labourers, poorer people and intellectuals
Show answer & explanation

West Bengal, Kerala and Tripura; its supporters include workers, farmers, agricultural labourers, poorer people and intellectuals

Its continuous period governing West Bengal lasted 34 years.

Q36. A party supports economic reforms while also stressing minority welfare and secularism. Which party profile in NCERT best fits this combination?

Intermediate
A the Bharatiya Janata Party B the Communist Party of India (Marxist) C the Bahujan Samaj Party D the Indian National Congress
Show answer & explanation

the Indian National Congress

It espouses secularism and the welfare of weaker sections and minorities.

Q37. Which organisation became the first nationally recognised party originating in North East India?

Intermediate
A the Mizo National Front B the Sikkim Democratic Front C the Aam Aadmi Party D the National People's Party
Show answer & explanation

the National People's Party

Formed in July 2013 under P.A. Sangma, it formed government in Meghalaya.

Q38. Which set names parties that are conscious about their State identity?

Intermediate
A Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal B AAP, BSP and NPP C INC, BJP and CPI-M D Four of them — the Biju Janata Dal, the Sikkim Democratic Front, the Mizo National Front, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi
Show answer & explanation

Four of them — the Biju Janata Dal, the Sikkim Democratic Front, the Mizo National Front, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi

These sit alongside the all-India parties that have succeeded only in some states, both kinds being classified as State parties.

Q39. How did the expansion of state parties over three decades change Parliament?

Intermediate
A It reduced the number of parties in the Lok Sabha B It made the Parliament of India politically more and more diverse C It gave national parties larger majorities D It ended the practice of coalition government
Show answer & explanation

It made the Parliament of India politically more and more diverse

The consequence was that national parties were compelled to form alliances with state parties.

Q40. Distinguish between the registration and the recognition of a political party.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q41. State the criteria for recognition as a State party and as a national party.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q42. Explain how the Election Commission classifies political parties in India, and what recognition brings.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — every party must register; the Commission treats all parties equally in registration. 1 mark — special facilities are offered to large and established parties, which are called recognised parties. 1 mark — the unique symbol, usable only by that party's official candidates. 1 mark — State party…

Q43. Write short notes on any three of the six recognised national parties.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any three parties, with any five points across them. BJP — 1 mark each for: founded 1980 reviving the Jana Sangh formed by Syama Prasad Mukherjee in 1951; integral humanism and Antyodaya, cultural nationalism or Hindutva; integration of Jammu and Kashmir, uniform civil code, ban on conversions; expansion of its base in…

Q44. 'The rise of State parties has strengthened federalism and democracy in India.' Examine this statement.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — most major parties are classified as State parties, commonly called regional parties. 1 mark — they need not be regional in ideology; some are all-India parties succeeding only in some states, others conscious of State identity. 1 mark — their number and strength expanded over three decades, m…

Q45. What is the worldwide tendency that produces the first challenge?

Intermediate
A the multiplication of small parties B Decision-making becomes concentrated among a small leadership group instead of being shared with ordinary members. C the decline in party membership D the rise of independent candidates
Show answer & explanation

Decision-making becomes concentrated among a small leadership group instead of being shared with ordinary members.

It is a tendency in political parties all over the world, not a feature of any one country.

Q46. What replaces loyalty to party principles and policies where power is concentrated?

Intermediate
A loyalty to the constituency B loyalty to the alliance C loyalty to the Election Commission D personal loyalty to the leader
Show answer & explanation

personal loyalty to the leader

A party is supposed to stand for policies; when it stands for a person, disagreement becomes disloyalty.

Q47. Why do parties resort to short-cuts during elections?

Intermediate
A Because election law is too complex B Because the Election Commission requires speed C Because voters demand it D Because they are focussed only on winning elections
Show answer & explanation

Because they are focussed only on winning elections

The single-mindedness is the cause from which the nomination of wealthy candidates follows.

Q48. What form does the third challenge take at its most serious?

Intermediate
A parties spending more than the legal limit B parties advertising on television C parties refusing corporate donations D parties supporting criminals who can win elections
Show answer & explanation

parties supporting criminals who can win elections

This is the muscle power half, and democrats all over the world are worried about the growing role of the rich and of big companies in democratic politics.

Q49. What does NCERT's historical comparison of Labour and the Conservatives illustrate about voters' policy choices?

Intermediate
A It is fundamental and growing B In the textbook comparison, Labour and the Conservatives share basic positions and differ more over policy details and implementation. C They differ on everything but economics D They have merged into one party
Show answer & explanation

In the textbook comparison, Labour and the Conservatives share basic positions and differ more over policy details and implementation.

This is offered as an example of a worldwide decline in ideological differences among parties.

Q50. In which area have the differences among India's major parties reduced?

Intermediate
A economic policies B foreign policy C defence D language policy
Show answer & explanation

economic policies

Those who want really different policies therefore have no option available to them.

Q51. Why must parties face and overcome these four challenges?

Intermediate
A To satisfy the Election Commission B To qualify for recognition C To avoid prosecution D To remain effective instruments of democracy
Show answer & explanation

To remain effective instruments of democracy

The criticism is directed at the failure of parties to perform their functions well.

Q52. What does the lack of internal democracy within parties consist of?

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q53. Describe the growing role of money and muscle power in parties.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Q54. What are the various challenges faced by political parties?

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — parties are the most visible face of democracy, so blame settles on them; criticism focusses on four problem areas. 1 mark — lack of internal democracy: concentration of power in one or few leaders at the top. 1 mark — no membership registers, no organisational meetings, no regular internal el…

Q55. Explain how wealthy donors and candidates with criminal connections can influence electoral politics.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — parties are focussed only on winning elections and therefore use short-cuts. 1 mark — they nominate candidates who have or can raise lots of money. 1 mark — money enters at the stage of selection, before the campaign. 1 mark — rich people and companies who fund parties influence their policies…

Q56. 'Political parties often fail to offer a meaningful choice to voters.' Examine this statement.

Intermediate
Show answer & explanation

—

Any five points. 1 mark — parties must be significantly different in order to offer a meaningful choice. 1 mark — the number of parties on the ballot is not the same as the distance between them. 1 mark — a decline in ideological differences among parties in most parts of the world. 1 mark — the British example: Labour…

Q57. Which body ordered that candidates must declare their property and pending criminal cases?

Intermediate
A Parliament B the Election Commission C the President D the Supreme Court
Show answer & explanation

the Supreme Court

Disclosure was intended to curb financial and criminal influence by informing voters.

Q58. What did the Election Commission require political parties to do?

Intermediate
A hold their organisational elections and file their income tax returns B publish their manifestos in advance C limit their candidates to one per constituency D accept state funding
Show answer & explanation

hold their organisational elections and file their income tax returns

The Election Commission required organisational elections and tax-return filing; NCERT warns that formal compliance need not give members a stronger voice.

Q59. Which three methods are named by which people can put pressure on political parties?

Intermediate
A Litigation, boycott and strikes B Petitions, publicity and agitations C Referendums, recalls and initiatives D Letters, donations and memberships
Show answer & explanation

Petitions, publicity and agitations

Citizens, campaign groups and journalists can press for reform through petitions, public discussion and collective action.

Topper level · 141 questions

Q60. A villager who has never heard of the Constitution can name four political parties and say what each stands for. Which observation of the chapter does this illustrate?

Advanced
A That the Constitution is poorly drafted B That parties are the most trusted institution in India C That political education is compulsory in villages D Parties are familiar through elections and local activity, so many citizens identify democratic politics with them
Show answer & explanation

Parties are familiar through elections and local activity, so many citizens identify democratic politics with them

People can readily recognise parties while remaining dissatisfied with their performance.

Q61. Two groups both campaign on farm prices, but only one puts up candidates and hopes to form a government. What distinguishes it?

Advanced
A It has more members B It is registered with a court C It has a written ideology D It contests elections and seeks to hold power, which is what makes it a political party
Show answer & explanation

It contests elections and seeks to hold power, which is what makes it a political party

Many groups hold political views; a party exists to take office, and that is the half of the definition students most often drop.

Q62. A speaker complains that parties are 'partial, partisan and lead to partitions'. What is the chapter's reply?

Advanced
A That parties are in fact neutral between all sections B That partisanship exists only in multiparty systems C That partisanship was abolished by the anti-defection law D Parties represent particular political interests and therefore take sides in public disputes
Show answer & explanation

Parties represent particular political interests and therefore take sides in public disputes

To understand a party, examine its supporters, its policy commitments and the interests it defends.

Q63. A newspaper columnist who has defended the same party through three governments is described as partisan. What does the label mean?

Advanced
A That he is paid by the party B That he holds office in the party C His strong loyalty to a group makes it difficult for him to assess competing views fairly D That he refuses to write about politics at all
Show answer & explanation

His strong loyalty to a group makes it difficult for him to assess competing views fairly

Parties themselves involve partisanship because a party is about a part of the society, so the word describes a position rather than an accusation.

Q64. A party's internal report lists its office-bearers, its trained workers who run the campaigns, and the voters who reliably support it. Which three components has it named?

Advanced
A The founders, the donors and the candidates B The ministers, the legislators and the voters C The leaders, the active members and the followers D The president, the treasurer and the secretary
Show answer & explanation

The leaders, the active members and the followers

A question asking for the components of a political party is asking for exactly these three.

Q65. A voter complains that his party's manifesto ignores the particular reform he wants. What does the chapter say in explanation?

Advanced
A A government needs a workable direction. Parties combine related demands into a programme instead of trying to act on every individual preference at once. B That manifestos are legally restricted in length C That parties must copy one another's manifestos D That voters are not consulted about policies at all
Show answer & explanation

A government needs a workable direction. Parties combine related demands into a programme instead of trying to act on every individual preference at once.

A government needs a workable direction. Parties combine related demands into a programme instead of trying to act on every individual preference at once.

Q66. Why is the reduction of many opinions into a few basic positions described as necessary rather than as a loss?

Advanced
A Because without it there would be no direction in which a government could formulate policy B Because it saves campaign expenditure C Because the Constitution requires it D Because voters cannot read long manifestos
Show answer & explanation

Because without it there would be no direction in which a government could formulate policy

It is the party in government. Its programme is expected to guide the policies pursued while it holds office.

Q67. An MP votes for a bill she has privately criticised. Which function of parties does this illustrate?

Advanced
A Legislatures formally pass laws, but party leaders strongly influence voting because their legislators generally follow party directions. B Parties forming and running governments C Parties shaping public opinion D Parties providing access to welfare schemes
Show answer & explanation

Legislatures formally pass laws, but party leaders strongly influence voting because their legislators generally follow party directions.

Party influence works through legislators; the formal decision belongs to the legislature.

Q68. A social organisation working among factory workers turns out to have been set up by a political party. What does the chapter say about such bodies?

Advanced
A That they are prohibited by the Election Commission B That they must register as parties themselves C Parties sometimes reach social groups through associated pressure organisations D That they cannot take part in movements
Show answer & explanation

Parties sometimes reach social groups through associated pressure organisations

Campaigns, activists and associated pressure groups draw attention to issues. Parties may also organise movements, helping shape the terms of public debate.

Q69. A woman needing help with a welfare scheme goes to a local party worker rather than to the block office. Which function is at work, and what does it explain?

Advanced
A Contesting elections; it explains high turnout B Making laws; it explains party discipline C Helping citizens reach public services; practical contact can persist despite distrust D Shaping public opinion; it explains the rise of pressure groups
Show answer & explanation

Helping citizens reach public services; practical contact can persist despite distrust

A local worker may be easier to reach than an official and can help a resident find the relevant public office or welfare scheme.

Q70. Consider the following as functions of political parties. I. Contesting elections and putting forward policies II. Forming and running governments III. Acting as the opposition when defeated IV. Conducting elections and declaring the results Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, II and III D I, III and IV
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. Conducting elections and declaring results is the work of the Election Commission, not of parties.

Q71. In an imagined election with no parties at all, why could no candidate promise a major policy change?

Advanced
A Because promises would be illegal B Because every candidate would be independent, and an independent cannot commit anyone else to a policy C Because voters would not believe any promise D Because the Election Commission would forbid manifestos
Show answer & explanation

Because every candidate would be independent, and an independent cannot commit anyone else to a policy

An independent cannot bind other representatives to a national programme. Major policy promises would therefore lack collective backing, and the direction of government would be uncertain.

Q72. What exactly would be missing from a democracy without political parties?

Advanced
A Elections themselves B Any form of local accountability C The legislature D Each representative might answer for local work, but no organised group would accept responsibility for national government as a whole.
Show answer & explanation

Each representative might answer for local work, but no organised group would accept responsibility for national government as a whole.

This is the heart of the chapter's argument for the necessity of parties.

Q73. In a state where panchayat elections are held on a non-party basis, the village still divides into factions each putting up a panel of candidates. What conclusion does the chapter draw?

Advanced
A That the rule against parties is being broken B That panchayats should be abolished C That this is exactly what a party does, so the need parties meet is real D That factions are unique to villages
Show answer & explanation

That this is exactly what a party does, so the need parties meet is real

Remove parties by rule and something party-shaped grows back, which is evidence rather than argument.

Q74. Which set correctly names the needs that large, complex societies developed and that parties came to fulfil?

Advanced
A Revenue collection, defence and policing B Education, employment and welfare C They convey public demands, organise representatives into a governing group, and provide organised support for or criticism of government decisions. D A free press, an independent judiciary and a written constitution
Show answer & explanation

They convey public demands, organise representatives into a governing group, and provide organised support for or criticism of government decisions.

As representative government developed, parties supplied the organisation needed to connect public demands, elected representatives and government decisions.

Q75. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): Political parties are necessary for representative democracy. Reason (R): They organise public demands, coordinate elected representatives and provide collective responsibility for government.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

Large societies need representative democracy, and representative democracy generates precisely the needs parties meet.

Q76. A student writes that parties are needed because they are popular institutions. What is wrong with this?

Advanced
A Nothing; parties are the most trusted institution in India B Familiarity does not establish popularity; parties are needed to organise government and national responsibility C Parties are neither visible nor popular D Popularity is the only measure the chapter uses
Show answer & explanation

Familiarity does not establish popularity; parties are needed to organise government and national responsibility

Citizens may associate parties with government failures despite knowing them well.

Q77. A commentator says that because parties are blamed for everything wrong with democracy, they should be replaced with independent candidates. Which reply follows the chapter's reasoning?

Advanced
A That independents are legally barred from contesting B That an assembly of independents would have local accountability but no one responsible for the country as a whole C That independents cannot form a majority D That independents are more partisan than parties
Show answer & explanation

That an assembly of independents would have local accountability but no one responsible for the country as a whole

An independent cannot bind other representatives to a national programme. Major policy promises would therefore lack collective backing, and the direction of government would be uncertain.

Q78. Which pairing of a function with its illustration is correct?

Advanced
A Making laws — a party worker helping a citizen obtain a ration card B Shaping public opinion — a party launching a movement on an issue faced by people C Forming governments — a defeated party criticising the budget D Contesting elections — a minister being trained by the party
Show answer & explanation

Shaping public opinion — a party launching a movement on an issue faced by people

Each of the other three attaches an illustration to the wrong function; matching them correctly is the point of the exercise.

Q79. Why does the chapter call the grouping of similar opinions the work of parties rather than of governments?

Advanced
A Because governments are forbidden to consult the public B Because governments have no policies of their own C Because opinions cannot be grouped by any official body D Because a government must act on a direction already given, and parties are what supply that direction by reducing many views to a few positions
Show answer & explanation

Because a government must act on a direction already given, and parties are what supply that direction by reducing many views to a few positions

It is the party in government. Its programme is expected to guide the policies pursued while it holds office.

Q80. A party in opposition is often said to be doing nothing. Which two activities does the chapter credit it with?

Advanced
A Conducting elections and counting votes B Appointing ministers and framing budgets C Registering voters and issuing symbols D They scrutinise rulers, offer competing views and organise criticism of failures or unsuitable policies.
Show answer & explanation

They scrutinise rulers, offer competing views and organise criticism of failures or unsuitable policies.

They scrutinise rulers, offer competing views and organise criticism of failures or unsuitable policies.

Q81. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): A citizen may distrust a party yet regularly seek help from its workers. Reason (R): Local workers can be easier to reach than officials when someone needs access to a welfare scheme.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

A local worker may be easier to reach than an official and can help a resident find the relevant public office or welfare scheme.

Q82. A student argues that since laws are passed in the legislature, parties have no role in law-making. Why is this wrong?

Advanced
A Legislatures formally pass laws, but party leaders strongly influence voting because their legislators generally follow party directions. B Because parties draft every bill themselves C Because the legislature cannot reject a bill D Because laws are made by the Election Commission
Show answer & explanation

Legislatures formally pass laws, but party leaders strongly influence voting because their legislators generally follow party directions.

Legislatures make the formal decision, while party directions influence how their members vote.

Q83. Which conclusion best follows from the fact that parties exist in countries big or small, old or new, developed or developing?

Advanced
A That they meet a need which every representative government has, rather than reflecting any one country's fashion B That parties are imposed by international agreement C That every country has the same party system D That party systems can be freely chosen
Show answer & explanation

That they meet a need which every representative government has, rather than reflecting any one country's fashion

As representative government developed, parties supplied the organisation needed to connect public demands, elected representatives and government decisions.

Q84. Consider the following statements about the components of a political party. I. The leaders take the decisions and become ministers. II. The active members do the party's organisational work. III. The followers support the party at the polls. IV. The Election Commission is a fourth component. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, III and IV D I, II and III
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. The Election Commission registers and recognises parties but is no part of one.

Q85. Why does the chapter present the objection to parties before making the case for them?

Advanced
A Because the objection is unanswerable B Because the case has to be made against a real and widely held criticism rather than in a vacuum C Because the chapter recommends abolishing parties D Because the objection comes from the Constitution
Show answer & explanation

Because the case has to be made against a real and widely held criticism rather than in a vacuum

People blame parties for all that is wrong with democracy, and the chapter answers by removing parties in thought and seeing what breaks.

Q86. A party's activists take up an issue, and within months public discussion has settled into the terms that party used. Which observation does this illustrate?

Advanced
A That public opinion is fixed before parties act B Party campaigns can influence the terms in which public issues are discussed C That parties are barred from raising issues D That activists work only at election time
Show answer & explanation

Party campaigns can influence the terms in which public issues are discussed

Campaigns, activists and associated pressure groups draw attention to issues. Parties may also organise movements, helping shape the terms of public debate.

Q87. Which of the following is NOT one of the seven functions of political parties?

Advanced
A Supervising the conduct of elections and resolving disputes about them B Forming and running governments C Shaping public opinion by raising issues D Providing people access to government machinery and welfare schemes
Show answer & explanation

Supervising the conduct of elections and resolving disputes about them

Supervising elections belongs to the Election Commission; parties contest elections rather than conducting them.

Q88. Why is partisanship built into the idea of a political party?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q89. Why can no government handle the whole variety of views held in a society, and what do parties do about it?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q90. How is the rise of political parties linked to representative democracy?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q91. A commentator cites the 750-plus parties registered with the Election Commission as proof that Indian politics is hopelessly fragmented. What is wrong with the inference?

Advanced
A The figure is much lower than that B Registration is not permitted in India C Fragmentation is measured by the number of candidates, not parties D Registration permits participation, but only a small share of registered parties are realistic contenders for government
Show answer & explanation

Registration permits participation, but only a small share of registered parties are realistic contenders for government

Every classification of party systems counts parties that can actually take power, never parties that exist.

Q92. In a certain country the law permits anyone to found a party, but no party other than the ruling one has ever contested on fair terms. Which system is this, and why?

Advanced
A A two-party system, since a second party is legally possible B A multiparty system, since the law allows many parties C No party system at all, since parties are legal D One-party rule: a single party retains governing power without genuine electoral competition from rivals
Show answer & explanation

One-party rule: a single party retains governing power without genuine electoral competition from rivals

The law is not the obstacle in such a state; the electoral system is.

Q93. A student writes that a one-party system is bad because it governs inefficiently. Why is this the wrong objection?

Advanced
A Because the objection is that it is not a democratic option, not that it performs badly B Because one-party systems are in fact efficient C Because efficiency cannot be measured D Because the chapter approves of one-party systems
Show answer & explanation

Because the objection is that it is not a democratic option, not that it performs badly

Any democratic system must allow at least two parties to compete and provide a fair chance for competing parties to come to power.

Q94. Which pair of conditions must a democratic system satisfy where parties are concerned?

Advanced
A That at least two parties be allowed to compete, and that competing parties be given a fair chance to come to power B That parties be publicly funded and legally registered C That no party hold power for more than two terms D That every party win at least one seat
Show answer & explanation

That at least two parties be allowed to compete, and that competing parties be given a fair chance to come to power

Competition alone is not enough; the chance to win must be a fair one.

Q95. A legislature has members from six parties, yet every government for sixty years has been formed by one of the same two. Which system is this?

Advanced
A a two-party system, because only two have a serious chance of winning a majority to form the government B a multiparty system, because six parties hold seats C a one-party system, because only two ever govern D a coalition system
Show answer & explanation

a two-party system, because only two have a serious chance of winning a majority to form the government

Smaller parties can win seats; the classification concerns the principal competitors for a governing majority.

Q96. Consider the following statements about a two-party system. I. Power usually changes between two main parties. II. Other parties may exist, contest and win a few seats. III. Only the two main parties have a serious chance of a majority. IV. Only two parties are permitted to register. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, II and III D I, III and IV
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. No limit is placed on registration in a two-party system; the limit is on who can realistically win.

Q97. Four parties in a country each hold about a fifth of the seats, and any three of them could form a government together. Which system is this?

Advanced
A a one-party system B a two-party system, since two are always left out C a multiparty system, since more than two have a reasonable chance of coming to power in alliance with others D no system, since no party has a majority
Show answer & explanation

a multiparty system, since more than two have a reasonable chance of coming to power in alliance with others

The definition covers coming to power on one's own strength or in alliance with others.

Q98. Before an election, five parties agree to divide the seats among themselves, campaign on a common programme and form a government together if they win. What is such an arrangement called?

Advanced
A a merger B a one-party system C a defection D an alliance or a front
Show answer & explanation

an alliance or a front

Parties cooperate in an electoral partnership to seek office together.

Q99. A coalition government falls when a small partner withdraws support in its third year. Which characteristic of the multiparty system does this illustrate?

Advanced
A that it allows variety of representation B that only two parties can win C that alliances are prohibited D that it often appears very messy and leads to political instability
Show answer & explanation

that it often appears very messy and leads to political instability

The same feature that makes a multiparty system inclusive makes its governments harder to hold together.

Q100. Why are the messiness and the inclusiveness of a multiparty system described as the same feature?

Advanced
A Because both are false B Because a system that lets many interests into representation is one in which governments are harder to assemble C Because both arise from the number of registered parties D Because instability increases representation directly
Show answer & explanation

Because a system that lets many interests into representation is one in which governments are harder to assemble

They are two descriptions of one arrangement rather than two separate facts to be balanced.

Q101. A minister proposes legislation to convert India into a two-party system. On the chapter's reasoning, what is the basic flaw?

Advanced
A That two-party systems are undemocratic B That a party system is not something any country can choose, since it evolves over a long time from the society's own circumstances C That the Constitution names the party system D That two parties cannot govern a large country
Show answer & explanation

That a party system is not something any country can choose, since it evolves over a long time from the society's own circumstances

Party systems depend on the nature of society, its divisions, its political history and its electoral system, and these cannot be changed very quickly.

Q102. Why did India end up with a multiparty system rather than a two-party one?

Advanced
A Because the Constitution prescribes it B Because India's extensive regional and social diversity is difficult to represent within only two or three parties C Because two-party systems are banned in Asia D Because the Election Commission recognises many parties
Show answer & explanation

Because India's extensive regional and social diversity is difficult to represent within only two or three parties

The explanation runs from the society to the party system, not the other way round.

Q103. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): No party system is ideal for all countries and all situations. Reason (R): A party system evolves over a long time and each country develops one conditioned by its special circumstances.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

If systems arise from circumstances that differ, no single system can suit them all.

Q104. An examiner asks which party system is best. What is the strongest way to begin the answer?

Advanced
A By naming the multiparty system, since India has it B By explaining that this is not a very good question, since a party system cannot be chosen but evolves from a country's circumstances C By naming the two-party system, since it is stable D By refusing to answer
Show answer & explanation

By explaining that this is not a very good question, since a party system cannot be chosen but evolves from a country's circumstances

Describe each system, then explain why the comparison cannot be made in the abstract.

Q105. Survey evidence shows that in South Asia, more people report their trust in parties as 'not much' or 'not at all' than as 'some' or 'great'. How does this compare with other democracies?

Advanced
A Distrust is widespread in other democracies too; this does not make South Asia unique B Trust is much higher elsewhere C Other democracies do not survey trust D Trust in parties is highest in South Asia
Show answer & explanation

Distrust is widespread in other democracies too; this does not make South Asia unique

The distrust is not an Indian or South Asian peculiarity.

Q106. A journalist writes that Indian parties are in crisis because citizens have grown indifferent to them. What does the evidence show?

Advanced
A The claim is fully confirmed B Trust and participation have both risen C The belief is only partly true: trust is low, but party membership and the proportion feeling close to a party have gone up steadily over three decades D Trust and participation have both fallen
Show answer & explanation

The belief is only partly true: trust is low, but party membership and the proportion feeling close to a party have gone up steadily over three decades

Low trust and rising participation at the same time is the finding, and indifference does not describe it.

Q107. Which statement best distinguishes the three party systems?

Advanced
A They differ in how many parties exist in the country B They differ in how parties are funded C They differ in the length of the government's term D They differ in how many parties can actually take power: one that is allowed, two with a serious chance, or more than two with a reasonable chance
Show answer & explanation

They differ in how many parties can actually take power: one that is allowed, two with a serious chance, or more than two with a reasonable chance

This is the single column that separates them, and reading it wrongly is the commonest error in this topic.

Q108. A country's electoral rules make it nearly impossible for a party with scattered support to win seats, and over decades only two parties have formed governments. What does this illustrate about party systems?

Advanced
A That party systems are chosen by governments B That scattered support is illegal C That two-party systems are more democratic D That a country's system of elections is one of the things a party system depends on
Show answer & explanation

That a country's system of elections is one of the things a party system depends on

Social conditions, regional divisions and political history also shape the system.

Q109. Which of the following would NOT by itself make a country's system a multiparty system?

Advanced
A More than two parties having a reasonable chance of power on their own strength B More than two parties having a reasonable chance of power in alliance with others C Several hundred parties being registered with the election authority D Governments regularly being formed by coalitions of several parties
Show answer & explanation

Several hundred parties being registered with the election authority

Registration counts parties that exist; the classification counts parties that can take power.

Q110. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): Multiparty competition can give diverse interests a political voice. Reason (R): Multiparty coalitions may be difficult to assemble and keep together.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A

Both statements are made in the chapter, but instability is a consequence of the same arrangement rather than the reason representation is wide.

Q111. A voter in a two-party country supports a small third party that holds four seats. Is this consistent with the system being called a two-party system?

Advanced
A No, since a two-party system permits only two parties B No, since the third party would have to merge C Yes; smaller parties can enter the contest and obtain some legislative seats D Yes, but only if the third party never contests again
Show answer & explanation

Yes; smaller parties can enter the contest and obtain some legislative seats

What makes it a two-party system is that only two have a serious chance of winning a majority to form the government.

Q112. Which phrase in the definition of a multiparty system is most often left out of student answers?

Advanced
A 'several parties compete for power' B 'more than two parties' C 'a reasonable chance of coming to power' D 'either on their own strength or in alliance with others'
Show answer & explanation

'either on their own strength or in alliance with others'

Without it, a country where no party can win alone would not count as multiparty, which is the opposite of the truth.

Q113. A large, diverse country finds that its regional parties hold seats no nationwide party can win. Which conclusion follows?

Advanced
A That the regional parties should be banned B That the country has a two-party system C That such diversity is not easily absorbed by two or even three parties, which is how a multiparty system comes about D That the country should adopt the American system
Show answer & explanation

That such diversity is not easily absorbed by two or even three parties, which is how a multiparty system comes about

Each country develops a party system conditioned by its special circumstances.

Q114. Which of the following correctly pairs a system with its defining feature?

Advanced
A Multiparty: several parties can realistically gain office, independently or with partners B One-party — several parties exist but only two can win C Two-party — only one party is allowed to run the government D Multiparty — power changes between two main parties
Show answer & explanation

Multiparty: several parties can realistically gain office, independently or with partners

The other three attach a definition to the wrong system, which is the trap this question is built on.

Q115. Why can a country not simply legislate the party system it wants?

Advanced
A Because the Election Commission would object B Because the Constitution forbids such a law C Because a party system evolves from the nature of society, its divisions, its political history and its electoral system, none of which can be changed very quickly D Because voters would not obey it
Show answer & explanation

Because a party system evolves from the nature of society, its divisions, its political history and its electoral system, none of which can be changed very quickly

Party systems are outcomes of circumstances rather than instruments of policy.

Q116. An observer notes that Indians trust parties little but join them more than Canadians or Japanese do. What does this pattern suggest about the claim that parties face a crisis of indifference?

Advanced
A It confirms the claim entirely B It shows the claim is only partly true, since distrust and rising participation coexist C It shows Indians do not understand parties D It shows survey data cannot be relied on
Show answer & explanation

It shows the claim is only partly true, since distrust and rising participation coexist

Indifference would show up as falling participation, and participation in India has gone up steadily over three decades.

Q117. Consider the following statements about multiparty systems. I. Three or more parties stand a fair chance of reaching power. II. Governments are often formed by coalitions. III. They allow a variety of interests to enjoy representation. IV. They guarantee stable governments. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B I, II and III C II, III and IV D I, III and IV
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. A multiparty system often leads to political instability rather than guaranteeing against it.

Q118. A textbook asks students to classify the party systems of Indian states as two-party, multiparty with two alliances, or multiparty. What does this exercise show about party systems?

Advanced
A That every state must follow the national pattern B That states are free to choose their party systems C That the same classification can apply at different levels, since a party system is an outcome of the particular society and history in question D That the Election Commission assigns systems to states
Show answer & explanation

That the same classification can apply at different levels, since a party system is an outcome of the particular society and history in question

Each unit develops a system conditioned by its own special circumstances, which is the same principle applied on a smaller scale.

Q119. What is a multiparty system, and what is an alliance?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q120. State the merits and demerits of a multiparty system.

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q121. Why can a country not choose its party system?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q122. A party has branches in eighteen states, but each branch decides its own manifesto and contests on its own terms. How does this differ from the chapter's account of national parties?

Advanced
A In national parties the state units by and large follow the policies, programmes and strategy decided at the national level B It does not differ, since national parties let every state unit set its own policy line C National parties must have branches in exactly four states, not in eighteen D National parties are not allowed to have any units in the states
Show answer & explanation

In national parties the state units by and large follow the policies, programmes and strategy decided at the national level

The chapter describes national parties as having state units that follow a centrally decided line; formal recognition as a national party still depends on the Election Commission's criteria of votes and seats.

Q123. A newly formed party registers with the Election Commission and demands its own exclusive election symbol at once. Is the demand well founded?

Advanced
A No, a unique symbol is a facility offered to recognised parties, which must first meet the criteria of votes and seats B Yes, registration and recognition are the same thing C Yes, every registered party gets a symbol of its choice D No, symbols are allotted only to national parties
Show answer & explanation

No, a unique symbol is a facility offered to recognised parties, which must first meet the criteria of votes and seats

Every party has to register, and the Commission treats all parties equally, but it offers some special facilities to large and established parties.

Q124. Why does the chapter treat the unique symbol as a significant privilege rather than a formality?

Advanced
A Because only the official candidates of that party can use it, and it is how voters identify a party on the ballot B Because it can be sold to other parties C Because it is printed on the party constitution D Because it entitles the party to state funding
Show answer & explanation

Because only the official candidates of that party can use it, and it is how voters identify a party on the ballot

Recognition gives qualifying parties a reserved electoral identity and additional facilities.

Q125. A party wins 7 per cent of the votes and 3 seats in one State Assembly election. What recognition does it qualify for?

Advanced
A National party B No recognition, since it needs 4 seats C No recognition, since it contested only one State D State party
Show answer & explanation

State party

A State party needs at least six per cent of total votes in a State Assembly election and at least two seats.

Q126. A party crosses six per cent of the votes in Assembly elections in four States and wins five Lok Sabha seats. What is it recognised as?

Advanced
A A national party B A State party in each of the four States only C An unrecognised party D A recognised party only in the State where it polled most
Show answer & explanation

A national party

The textbook describes national recognition through 6% electoral support across four states, in Lok Sabha or Assembly polls, together with at least four Lok Sabha seats.

Q127. A student writes that a national party needs ten per cent of the votes while a state party needs six. What is the error?

Advanced
A The six per cent is the same for both; what differs is the scale of the election and the seat requirement B The state figure should be ten and the national six C Neither criterion mentions a percentage D The national figure should be two per cent
Show answer & explanation

The six per cent is the same for both; what differs is the scale of the election and the seat requirement

Two seats in a State Assembly against four in the Lok Sabha, and one State against Lok Sabha elections or four States.

Q128. Consider the following statements about recognition. I. A State party needs at least two seats in the State Assembly. II. A national party needs at least four seats in the Lok Sabha. III. Both need at least six per cent of total votes. IV. Only national parties are given a unique symbol. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, III and IV D I, II and III
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. All recognised parties, state as well as national, are given a unique symbol.

Q129. A party formed soon after a national anti-corruption movement, built on accountability, clean administration, transparency and good governance, has formed governments in two places. Which party is this?

Advanced
A the National People's Party B the Bahujan Samaj Party C the Aam Aadmi Party D the Communist Party of India (Marxist)
Show answer & explanation

the Aam Aadmi Party

AAP began on 26 November 2012 after the 2011 anti-corruption mobilisation. The party has previously formed governments in Delhi and Punjab.

Q130. A party names Sahu Maharaj, Mahatma Phule, Periyar Ramaswami Naicker and Babasaheb Ambedkar among its inspirations. What does this tell you about its purpose?

Advanced
A That it is a communist party B That it is a centrist party C That its programme promotes the welfare and political interests of Dalits and other oppressed groups D That it opposes democratic elections
Show answer & explanation

That its programme promotes the welfare and political interests of Dalits and other oppressed groups

All four worked against caste inequality, which is what the BSP's stated purpose follows from.

Q131. Which set correctly lists three things the BJP wants?

Advanced
A State funding of elections, a uniform civil code and land reform B Full territorial and political integration of Jammu and Kashmir, a uniform civil code, and a ban on religious conversions C Nationalisation of banks, a ban on conversions and reservation for women D A uniform civil code, state funding of elections and an end to coalitions
Show answer & explanation

Full territorial and political integration of Jammu and Kashmir, a uniform civil code, and a ban on religious conversions

Its support base grew substantially in the 1990s, expanding from the north and west into the south, east and north-east and into rural areas.

Q132. A party believes in Marxism-Leninism yet contests elections regularly. How does the chapter explain this?

Advanced
A It has abandoned its ideology because election participation necessarily requires that change. B It contests only to prevent any elected legislature from exercising political authority. C It regards electoral participation as a means of pursuing social and economic justice. D It accepts voting only when all rival parties are forbidden from contesting.
Show answer & explanation

It regards electoral participation as a means of pursuing social and economic justice.

The CPI-M supports socialism, secularism and democracy and opposes imperialism and communalism.

Q133. A party is critical of new economic policies that allow the free flow of foreign capital and goods into the country. Which of the six national parties is this?

Advanced
A the Indian National Congress B the Bharatiya Janata Party C the National People's Party D the Communist Party of India (Marxist)
Show answer & explanation

the Communist Party of India (Marxist)

The INC by contrast supports the new economic reforms but with a human face, which is the distinction this question turns on.

Q134. A party founded in 1885 has experienced many splits and was the ruling party at the Centre till 1977 and again from 1980 to 1989. Which is it, and what happened after 1989?

Advanced
A the BJP; its support grew steadily B INC; its electoral support weakened after 1989, but its organisation continued across India and different social groups C the CPI-M; it withdrew from national politics D the BSP; it confined itself to Uttar Pradesh
Show answer & explanation

INC; its electoral support weakened after 1989, but its organisation continued across India and different social groups

Nehru's Congress promoted a secular, democratic republic. Congress later headed the UPA government during 2004–14.

Q135. A party holds that different regions have different developmental challenges and puts education and employment for all at the centre of its philosophy. Which party is this?

Advanced
A the Bahujan Samaj Party B the Communist Party of India (Marxist) C the Bharatiya Janata Party D the National People's Party
Show answer & explanation

the National People's Party

It also believes in the diversity of the country and works for the empowerment of all sections of society.

Q136. The Samajwadi Party and the Rashtriya Janata Dal have national level organisation with units in several states, yet are classified as State parties. What does this show?

Advanced
A That the classification is mistaken B State recognition describes electoral strength, while a party's organisation or political outlook can extend beyond that state C That they will soon become national parties D That national organisation is irrelevant to politics
Show answer & explanation

State recognition describes electoral strength, while a party's organisation or political outlook can extend beyond that state

The label records where a party wins, not what it believes.

Q137. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): National parties were compelled to form alliances with state parties. Reason (R): One national party won a clear majority in the Lok Sabha at every election from 1989 until 2014.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

A is true but R is false

None did, which is exactly why alliances had to be formed. The assertion stands, the reason is false.

Q138. A state party that has never contested outside its own state holds a ministry in a coalition government at the Centre. Which development does this illustrate?

Advanced
A That state parties have become national parties B That the Election Commission has changed its criteria C That since 1996 nearly every state party has had an opportunity to be part of one or another national level coalition government D That national parties have disappeared
Show answer & explanation

That since 1996 nearly every state party has had an opportunity to be part of one or another national level coalition government

Participation by state-based parties gave regional interests a stronger role in Union politics.

Q139. Why does the chapter say the rise of state parties strengthened federalism?

Advanced
A Because parties rooted in individual states gained a route into the government at the Centre, so states are represented inside it rather than only administered from it B Because it reduced the powers of the Union government by law C Because it created new states D Because it increased the number of seats in the Lok Sabha
Show answer & explanation

Because parties rooted in individual states gained a route into the government at the Centre, so states are represented inside it rather than only administered from it

Since 1996 nearly every state party has had an opportunity to join a national level coalition government.

Q140. Which of the following would NOT by itself qualify a party for recognition as a national party?

Advanced
A Registration with the Election Commission and units in twenty states B Six per cent of votes in Lok Sabha elections together with four Lok Sabha seats C Six per cent of votes in Assembly elections in four States together with four Lok Sabha seats D Meeting the Commission's criteria of the proportion of votes and seats
Show answer & explanation

Registration with the Election Commission and units in twenty states

Registration is required of every party and proves nothing about strength; recognition turns on votes and seats.

Q141. Two candidates in one constituency belong to parties with the same name in different states. Only one may use a particular symbol. Why?

Advanced
A Because symbols are allotted by lottery B Because a recognised party's symbol may be used only by that party's official candidates C Because independents may not use symbols D Because symbols change at every election
Show answer & explanation

Because a recognised party's symbol may be used only by that party's official candidates

This exclusivity is precisely what recognition confers.

Q142. Consider the following statements about state parties. I. They are commonly referred to as regional parties. II. Some have national level organisation with units in several states. III. Some are conscious about their State identity. IV. All of them have regional ideologies. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B I, II and III C II, III and IV D I, III and IV
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. A state-level electoral base does not require a narrowly regional ideology.

Q143. Which pairing of a national party with its distinguishing feature is correct?

Advanced
A INC — a centrist party espousing secularism and the welfare of weaker sections and minorities B CPI-M — draws inspiration from Deendayal Upadhyaya's integral humanism C BJP — seeks to secure power for the bahujan samaj D BSP — believes in Marxism-Leninism
Show answer & explanation

INC — a centrist party espousing secularism and the welfare of weaker sections and minorities

Each of the other three attaches a feature to the wrong party, which is what this question is built to test.

Q144. A party has its main base in Uttar Pradesh with substantial presence in Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Delhi and Punjab, and has formed government in UP several times with the support of different parties. Which is it?

Advanced
A the Samajwadi Party B the Rashtriya Janata Dal C the Bahujan Samaj Party D the Aam Aadmi Party
Show answer & explanation

the Bahujan Samaj Party

Kanshi Ram founded the BSP in 1984. It appears in the textbook's six-party list based on the 2023 notification.

Q145. What does the phrase 'reforms with a human face' describe, and whose position is it?

Advanced
A The CPI-M's rejection of foreign capital B The INC's support for the new economic reforms coupled with concern for weaker sections C The BJP's demand for a uniform civil code D The AAP's programme of clean administration
Show answer & explanation

The INC's support for the new economic reforms coupled with concern for weaker sections

It is a centrist position, distinct from the CPI-M's criticism of policies allowing free flow of foreign capital and goods.

Q146. Which statement about the Election Commission's treatment of parties is correct?

Advanced
A It gives large parties preference in every respect B It recognises only parties with seats in the Lok Sabha C It applies equal treatment while granting additional facilities to parties meeting recognition requirements D It refuses registration to small parties
Show answer & explanation

It applies equal treatment while granting additional facilities to parties meeting recognition requirements

The special facilities are what recognition consists of, and detailed criteria of votes and seats decide who gets them.

Q147. A party that formed government in Meghalaya and has presence in many North Eastern States holds national party status. What makes its case notable?

Advanced
A That it is the oldest party in India B That it was the earliest party from North East India to receive national recognition C That it contests only in one state D That it has never won a Lok Sabha seat
Show answer & explanation

That it was the earliest party from North East India to receive national recognition

The NPP secured one seat in the Lok Sabha in 2019 and was formed in July 2013 under P.A. Sangma.

Q148. Why is the growth of state parties described as a change in the practice of federalism rather than in its law?

Advanced
A Because the Constitution was amended to accommodate them B Because the states gained new legislative subjects C Because no provision changed; what changed was that seat arithmetic compelled national parties to share power with parties rooted in the states D Because the Election Commission altered its criteria
Show answer & explanation

Because no provision changed; what changed was that seat arithmetic compelled national parties to share power with parties rooted in the states

Party politics did for federalism what no constitutional amendment did, by giving state-rooted parties a route into the government at the Centre.

Q149. Why is 'regional party' a misleading description of a State party?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q150. How has the growth of State parties changed politics at the Centre?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q151. Compare the economic positions of the INC and the CPI-M.

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q152. A commentator argues that because parties are blamed for every failure of democracy, they must be the cause of every failure. What does the chapter's reasoning suggest?

Advanced
A That the commentator is right, since public opinion is reliable B That blame settles on parties partly because they are the most visible face of democracy, which is not the same as their causing everything C That parties are never at fault D That only four failures exist in any democracy
Show answer & explanation

That blame settles on parties partly because they are the most visible face of democracy, which is not the same as their causing everything

The dissatisfaction is real and worldwide, and has focussed on four problem areas, but visibility is part of why parties attract it.

Q153. A party has held no organisational election for twelve years, keeps no list of its members, and has not called a general meeting. Which challenge does this describe?

Advanced
A dynastic succession B money and muscle power C the absence of meaningful choice D lack of internal democracy
Show answer & explanation

lack of internal democracy

These three absences are exactly what the lack of internal democracy consists of.

Q154. An ordinary member of a party wants to challenge a decision taken by its president. On the chapter's account, what stands in the way?

Advanced
A A law forbidding internal dissent B That members must first be elected to the legislature C That members get neither sufficient information on what happens inside the party nor the means or connections needed to influence decisions D That party decisions are taken by the Election Commission
Show answer & explanation

That members get neither sufficient information on what happens inside the party nor the means or connections needed to influence decisions

Decision-making becomes concentrated among a small leadership group instead of being shared with ordinary members.

Q155. Why does the chapter's phrase 'decisions in the name of the party' matter?

Advanced
A Because the leaders are speaking for a body whose members have no way of checking them B Because decisions must be announced publicly C Because the party's name is legally protected D Because decisions are taken by the members themselves
Show answer & explanation

Because the leaders are speaking for a body whose members have no way of checking them

Power is exercised in someone else's name without their means of reply, which is what makes the concentration a democratic problem.

Q156. A senior member who publicly disagrees with the party president finds himself without a ticket and eventually leaves. Which consequence does this illustrate?

Advanced
A The effect of the anti-defection law B That where one or few leaders exercise paramount power, those who disagree find it difficult to continue in the party C That parties must expel dissenters by rule D That personal loyalty is forbidden in parties
Show answer & explanation

That where one or few leaders exercise paramount power, those who disagree find it difficult to continue in the party

Personal allegiance to a leader can displace commitment to the party's programme and principles.

Q157. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): Dynastic succession is treated as related to the lack of internal democracy rather than as a separate problem. Reason (R): Since most parties do not practise open and transparent procedures, an ordinary worker has hardly any way of rising to the top.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

Closed procedure is the cause and family succession is the effect, which is why the second challenge loses its mechanism if the first is fixed.

Q158. A worker of twenty years' standing is passed over for a ticket that goes to the president's son. Which two harms does the chapter identify in such a case?

Advanced
A Higher election costs and lower turnout B Unfairness to other members of the party, and harm to democracy since people without adequate experience or popular support occupy positions of power C Loss of the party's registration and of its symbol D A breach of the anti-defection law and of the model code
Show answer & explanation

Unfairness to other members of the party, and harm to democracy since people without adequate experience or popular support occupy positions of power

One harm is internal to the party; the other is to the country.

Q159. A student writes that dynastic succession is a problem peculiar to Indian parties. What is the correction?

Advanced
A It is peculiar to new democracies B It exists only where parties are family-owned businesses C Family advantages in party leadership also occur outside India, including in long-established democracies. D It has been abolished by law in India
Show answer & explanation

Family advantages in party leadership also occur outside India, including in long-established democracies.

Treating it as an Indian failing misstates the chapter.

Q160. A party selects a candidate chiefly because he can fund his own campaign. Which challenge is at work, and at which stage?

Advanced
A Lack of internal democracy, at the stage of policy-making B Dynastic succession, at the stage of leadership C Money power, at the stage of nomination, since parties tend to nominate candidates who have or can raise lots of money D Absence of choice, at the stage of voting
Show answer & explanation

Money power, at the stage of nomination, since parties tend to nominate candidates who have or can raise lots of money

Money enters the process before the campaign does.

Q161. A company funds several parties and afterwards finds its concerns reflected in each of their programmes. Which effect does this illustrate?

Advanced
A That funding is illegal B That parties copy one another's manifestos by accident C Large donors can gain influence over a party's policy choices, extending their role beyond financing its campaign. D That companies must register as parties
Show answer & explanation

Large donors can gain influence over a party's policy choices, extending their role beyond financing its campaign.

Money does not merely buy a campaign; it reaches into what the party does afterwards, which is the serious half of the third challenge.

Q162. Consider the following as consequences of money power in parties. I. Candidates are nominated for their ability to raise money. II. Funders influence the party's policies and decisions. III. Parties in some cases support criminals who can win. IV. The Election Commission funds every candidate equally. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, II and III D I, III and IV
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. State funding of elections is a suggestion for reform, not an existing practice.

Q163. A voter finds six parties on the ballot and concludes she has a meaningful choice. What condition has she overlooked?

Advanced
A That the parties must be registered B That she must be a member of one of them C A meaningful electoral choice requires alternatives that differ in substance, not simply in their names or symbols. D That six is too few
Show answer & explanation

A meaningful electoral choice requires alternatives that differ in substance, not simply in their names or symbols.

NCERT describes a narrowing of ideological differences between competing parties in the period it discusses.

Q164. A voter dissatisfied with both the policies and the personalities of the major parties finds no escape. Why does changing her vote not help with the second?

Advanced
A When familiar leaders switch parties, a different party label may still offer voters the same individuals. B Because voting is secret C Because independents cannot contest D Because leaders are appointed by the Election Commission
Show answer & explanation

When familiar leaders switch parties, a different party label may still offer voters the same individuals.

Changing the party may not change the policy, and may not change the person either — which is what closes the door completely.

Q165. Which challenge concerns how a party runs itself, and which concerns what it offers the voter?

Advanced
A Lack of internal democracy; absence of meaningful choice B Money power; dynastic succession C Dynastic succession; money power D Absence of meaningful choice; lack of internal democracy
Show answer & explanation

Lack of internal democracy; absence of meaningful choice

The first two challenges are internal, the third concerns the contest, and the fourth the result the voter actually faces.

Q166. An Italian prime minister also owned television channels, the country's most important publishing company, a football club and a bank. Which challenge does the chapter illustrate with this case?

Advanced
A lack of internal democracy B the growing role of money in democratic politics C dynastic succession D the absence of meaningful choice
Show answer & explanation

the growing role of money in democratic politics

The influence of wealthy individuals and large businesses worries supporters of democracy in many countries.

Q167. Which pairing of a challenge with its description is correct?

Advanced
A Lack of internal democracy — parties do not keep membership registers or hold internal elections B Dynastic succession — parties nominate candidates who can raise money C Money power — top positions controlled by one family D No meaningful choice — leaders exercise paramount power in the party
Show answer & explanation

Lack of internal democracy — parties do not keep membership registers or hold internal elections

Each of the other three attaches a description to the wrong challenge, which is what this question tests.

Q168. A reformer proposes that parties be required to maintain membership registers and hold regular internal elections. Which two challenges would this address at once, and why?

Advanced
A Money power and muscle power, because registers record donations B Meaningful choice and money power, because registers reveal policy C Only the lack of internal democracy, since dynasty is unrelated D Lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession, because closed procedure is what allows leaders to favour their own family
Show answer & explanation

Lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession, because closed procedure is what allows leaders to favour their own family

The chapter states that dynastic succession is related to the first challenge, so the two share a remedy.

Q169. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): Several parties contesting an election is enough to guarantee voters a meaningful choice. Reason (R): Lately, across most of the world, the ideological gap between parties has narrowed.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

A is false but R is true

A narrowing ideological gap can leave the choice thin, so the assertion is false. The reason gives that trend.

Q170. Which statement best explains why the concentration of power inside parties is a democratic problem and not merely an administrative one?

Advanced
A Because it slows down decision-making B Because decisions are taken in the name of a body whose members have neither the information nor the means to check them C Because it violates the Constitution D Because it reduces the number of candidates
Show answer & explanation

Because decisions are taken in the name of a body whose members have neither the information nor the means to check them

Ordinary members get no sufficient information and have no means or connections to influence decisions.

Q171. A party's top posts have been held by members of one family for three generations. Which challenge is this, and what makes it possible?

Advanced
A Money power, made possible by corporate funding B Dynastic succession, made possible by the absence of open and transparent procedures that would let an ordinary worker rise C Lack of choice, made possible by ideological convergence D Muscle power, made possible by criminal candidates
Show answer & explanation

Dynastic succession, made possible by the absence of open and transparent procedures that would let an ordinary worker rise

Opaque procedures restrict ordinary workers' opportunities to advance. Leaders can then favour relatives or close associates when distributing important posts.

Q172. Consider the following statements about the fourth challenge. I. Parties must be significantly different to offer a meaningful choice. II. Ideological differences have declined in most parts of the world. III. The same leaders keep moving between parties. IV. Voters in India have a wide choice of economic policies. Which of the statements given above are correct?

Advanced
A I, II and IV B II, III and IV C I, III and IV D I, II and III
Show answer & explanation

I, II and III

I, II and III are correct. Differences among the major parties on economic policies have reduced, not widened.

Q173. Why does the chapter treat the decline of ideological difference as a worldwide trend rather than an Indian complaint?

Advanced
A Because it began in India and spread B Because it affects only two-party systems C Because Indian parties have no ideologies at all D Because it cites Britain's Labour and Conservative parties alongside the Indian case, describing the decline as occurring in most parts of the world
Show answer & explanation

Because it cites Britain's Labour and Conservative parties alongside the Indian case, describing the decline as occurring in most parts of the world

The Indian observation about economic policies is added to a general pattern rather than standing alone.

Q174. Which of the following is NOT one of the four challenges to political parties?

Advanced
A The lack of internal democracy within parties B The growing role of money and muscle power C The failure of the Election Commission to recognise enough parties D The absence of a meaningful choice for voters
Show answer & explanation

The failure of the Election Commission to recognise enough parties

Recognition is a matter of criteria of votes and seats and is not among the four problem areas popular criticism has focussed on.

Q175. A party leader argues that dissent inside a party is disloyalty. Which condition does the chapter say produces that view?

Advanced
A The presence of internal elections B The presence of a membership register C The concentration of paramount power in one or a few leaders, under which personal loyalty to the leader becomes more important than loyalty to principles and policies D Corporate funding of campaigns
Show answer & explanation

The concentration of paramount power in one or a few leaders, under which personal loyalty to the leader becomes more important than loyalty to principles and policies

Those who disagree with the leadership consequently find it difficult to continue in the party.

Q176. Which sequence correctly traces the chain from single-minded focus on winning to the influence of funders?

Advanced
A Funding rules relax, then candidates multiply, then parties win B Funders influence policy, then parties nominate the rich, then elections are won C Parties focus only on winning, then use short-cuts, then nominate candidates who can raise money, then funders influence policies and decisions D Criminals contest, then money follows, then parties focus on winning
Show answer & explanation

Parties focus only on winning, then use short-cuts, then nominate candidates who can raise money, then funders influence policies and decisions

The order matters because it shows money entering at nomination and then reaching into what the party does after the election.

Q177. A reformer who wants voters to have a real alternative concludes that adding more parties to the ballot will solve the problem. Why might it not?

Advanced
A Because a choice is meaningful only if the parties are significantly different, and more parties agreeing on fundamentals adds no alternative B Because the ballot has a legal limit on parties C Because voters dislike long ballots D Because new parties cannot be registered
Show answer & explanation

Because a choice is meaningful only if the parties are significantly different, and more parties agreeing on fundamentals adds no alternative

More party labels do not ensure a substantially different policy option.

Q178. Which two of the four challenges are described as internal to the working of a party?

Advanced
A The lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession B Money power and the absence of choice C Dynastic succession and money power D The absence of choice and muscle power
Show answer & explanation

The lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession

The third concerns how a party fights elections and the fourth what it offers the voter.

Q179. Why does the chapter say the four challenges must be overcome rather than merely noted?

Advanced
A Because the law requires parties to reform B Because parties must overcome them in order to remain effective instruments of democracy, and democracy has been shown to depend on parties C Because the Election Commission will otherwise deregister them D Because voters have stopped participating in parties
Show answer & explanation

Because parties must overcome them in order to remain effective instruments of democracy, and democracy has been shown to depend on parties

The earlier topics established that parties are a necessary condition for democracy, which is what makes their failures urgent.

Q180. A commentator says the four challenges show that democracy would be better off without parties. Why does this conclusion not follow?

Advanced
A Because parties have been shown to be crucial for the working of democracy, so the conclusion drawn is that they must overcome these challenges, not be removed B Because the challenges are imaginary C Because only one challenge is real D Because the challenges apply only outside India
Show answer & explanation

Because parties have been shown to be crucial for the working of democracy, so the conclusion drawn is that they must overcome these challenges, not be removed

The section opens by recalling how crucial parties are before listing what is wrong with them.

Q181. How is dynastic succession connected to the lack of internal democracy?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q182. Why is dynastic succession bad for democracy and not merely unfair?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q183. Why do parties often fail to offer voters a meaningful choice?

Advanced
Show answer & explanation

—

Q184. A citizens' group demands that Parliament pass a strict law regulating how parties choose their leaders. What difficulty does the chapter identify with this route?

Advanced
A Parliament has no power to legislate on parties B Such a law would violate the right to form associations C The Election Commission would have to approve it first D Party leaders help decide reforms affecting their own organisations. Replacing the rulers may change the leaders without removing that incentive to resist restrictions.
Show answer & explanation

Party leaders help decide reforms affecting their own organisations. Replacing the rulers may change the leaders without removing that incentive to resist restrictions.

People can replace those leaders, but only by another set of party leaders, which is the circle the topic opens with.

Q185. An MLA elected on one party's symbol joins another party after the election in the hope of a ministry. What does the law now provide?

Advanced
A He will lose his seat in the legislature B He must resign from the ministry C He must contest a fresh election within six months D He may keep the seat but not vote
Show answer & explanation

He will lose his seat in the legislature

The amendment sought to discourage representatives from switching sides for ministerial posts or financial rewards.

Q186. A legislator elected on one party's symbol formally joins a rival party two months after the result. What is the act called, and what drove such acts before the Constitution was amended?

Advanced
A Dissent; it was driven by disagreement over policy B Resignation; it was driven by the wish to contest afresh C Defection: representatives may switch political allegiance in pursuit of posts or financial rewards D Coalition; it was driven by the arithmetic of alliances
Show answer & explanation

Defection: representatives may switch political allegiance in pursuit of posts or financial rewards

Defection means an elected representative switching allegiance away from the party under whose label they won office. In NCERT's simplified account of anti-defection law, an MP or MLA who changes party can lose their legislative seat.

Q187. A legislator believes a bill is wrong but votes for it, saying that opposing the leadership could cost him his seat. Which unintended effect does this illustrate?

Advanced
A The affidavit requirement B The Election Commission's order on organisational elections C The suggestion of state funding D That the anti-defection law has made dissent even more difficult, since MPs and MLAs have to accept whatever the party leaders decide
Show answer & explanation

That the anti-defection law has made dissent even more difficult, since MPs and MLAs have to accept whatever the party leaders decide

A measure aimed at one challenge deepened another, which is the central observation of this topic.

Q188. Read the Assertion and Reason and choose the correct option. Assertion (A): The anti-defection law cannot be described as a straightforward success. Reason (R): It has helped bring defection down, but it has also made any dissent even more difficult.

Advanced
A Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A B Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A C A is true but R is false D A is false but R is true
Show answer & explanation

Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A

Each of the three measures taken so far has a real effect and an unresolved cost, and the chapter reports both.

Q189. A returning officer receives from each candidate a signed document, sworn before an officer, setting out what the candidate owns and the cases pending against him. What is this document, and who made it compulsory?

Advanced
A A manifesto, made compulsory by the Election Commission B An affidavit, made compulsory by the Supreme Court C An income tax return, made compulsory by Parliament D A nomination paper, made compulsory by the returning officer
Show answer & explanation

An affidavit, made compulsory by the Supreme Court

The order was passed to reduce the influence of money and criminals, and an affidavit is a signed document containing a sworn statement of personal information.

Q190. A researcher claims the affidavit requirement has reduced the influence of the rich and of criminals in elections. What is wrong with the claim?

Advanced
A Affidavits are not actually filed B The requirement applies only to national parties C There is no system to check whether the information given is true, and as yet we do not know whether such a decline has occurred D The Supreme Court withdrew the order
Show answer & explanation

There is no system to check whether the information given is true, and as yet we do not know whether such a decline has occurred

What the system has certainly achieved is that a lot of information is now available to the public.

Q191. Why does the chapter treat disclosure and effect as separate questions?

Advanced
A Because disclosure is voluntary B Because affidavits are secret C Because making information available changes what is known, while whether it changes what happens depends on evidence not yet in D Because the public does not read affidavits
Show answer & explanation

Because making information available changes what is known, while whether it changes what happens depends on evidence not yet in

The chapter refuses to claim a result it cannot yet show, which is why it says 'as yet we do not know'.

Q192. A party holds an organisational election in which every post is filled unopposed, and files its returns on time. What does this illustrate?

Advanced
A That a rule can compel the form of a thing without producing its substance, so it is not clear that internal democracy has grown B That the Election Commission's order has failed entirely C That the party has broken the law D That organisational elections are unnecessary
Show answer & explanation

That a rule can compel the form of a thing without producing its substance, so it is not clear that internal democracy has grown

Parties have started doing what was ordered, but sometimes it is mere formality.

Q193. Which set correctly names the three authorities behind the measures already taken?

Advanced
A Parliament, the President and the Election Commission B The Supreme Court, the High Courts and Parliament C The Election Commission, the Comptroller and Auditor General and the Supreme Court D The Constitution as amended, the Supreme Court, and the Election Commission
Show answer & explanation

The Constitution as amended, the Supreme Court, and the Election Commission

Two of the three came from bodies outside the party system altogether.

Q194. A reformer proposes that parties be made to keep a register of members, follow their own constitution, appoint an independent authority to judge internal disputes, and hold open elections to the top posts. Which challenges would this address?

Advanced
A The lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession B Money power and muscle power C The absence of meaningful choice D Defection and criminality
Show answer & explanation

The lack of internal democracy and dynastic succession

Between them these four requirements remove the mechanism by which power concentrates and family succession becomes possible.

Q195. A party fields 120 candidates, of whom 20 are women, and claims to have met the reform proposed for women's representation. Has it?

Advanced
A Yes, twenty candidates is a substantial number B Yes, provided most of the twenty win their seats C No, because the proposal asks for one-half of all tickets D No — the proposal is about one-third of tickets, and it separately requires a quota for women in the party's decision making bodies
Show answer & explanation

No — the proposal is about one-third of tickets, and it separately requires a quota for women in the party's decision making bodies

The suggestion has two halves, and an answer or a claim that gives only the first is incomplete.

Q196. A student writes that the reform on women proposes only a share of tickets. What has been left out?

Advanced
A Women should also receive reserved representation in the bodies that make decisions within parties B That the share should be one-half C That the tickets should be in safe seats D That the rule should apply only to national parties
Show answer & explanation

Women should also receive reserved representation in the bodies that make decisions within parties

The suggestion has two halves, and an answer giving only the first is incomplete.

Q197. In what two forms could state funding of elections be given?

Advanced
A In kind, such as petrol, paper and telephone, or in cash on the basis of votes secured in the last election B Only in cash, and only before the election C In loans repayable after the election, or in tax relief D In free airtime, or in campaign staff
Show answer & explanation

In kind, such as petrol, paper and telephone, or in cash on the basis of votes secured in the last election

The government would give parties money to support their election expenses.

Q198. Which challenge is state funding of elections chiefly aimed at?

Advanced
A dynastic succession B the growing role of money power C the absence of meaningful choice D the lack of internal democracy
Show answer & explanation

the growing role of money power

If the state pays for election expenses, rich people and companies have less hold on the policies and decisions of a party.

Q199. A minister proposes a detailed code governing every internal act of every party. What warning does the chapter give?

Advanced
A That such a code would be unconstitutional B Excessive rules may encourage evasion rather than meaningful change. Parties can also resist legislation that restricts their own leaders. C That the Election Commission cannot enforce codes D That codes must be approved by the courts
Show answer & explanation

Excessive rules may encourage evasion rather than meaningful change. Parties can also resist legislation that restricts their own leaders.

NCERT cautions that adding rules does not necessarily change political behaviour.

Q200. What is the second reason for caution about legal solutions to political problems?

Advanced
A That laws take too long to pass B Party leaders can resist legislation that restricts their own organisations C That courts strike such laws down D That voters oppose them
Show answer & explanation

Party leaders can resist legislation that restricts their own organisations

This returns to the circle: a law binding parties must first be passed by parties.

Make your own

Your notes can be a kit like these

Every kit here was made from real study material. Point Veda at a chapter, a PDF, a photo or a link and get notes, flashcards, practice MCQs, games and a scored test — free, in 42 languages.

  • Chapter notes
  • Flashcards
  • Practice MCQs
  • Scored tests
  • Exam prep

Get Veda free See what students get

Free to start · No ads · Works in 42 languages