04. Political Parties Political Science Class 9 Chapter 4 Notes

04. Political Parties Political Science Class 9 Chapter 4 Notes

Introduction to Chapter

The chapter discusses how democracy is not just about electing rulers but also about the functioning of various institutions. It explains the key concepts of legislature, executive, and judiciary, and how they collectively work to implement major policy decisions. Understanding these institutions helps in comprehending the democratic framework of our governance.: .,

How is a Major Policy Decision Taken?

This section examines a significant policy decision made by the Government of India in 1990 regarding job reservations for the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBC). Such major decisions involve multiple steps and various government actors, emphasizing the complexities of policy-making in a democratic setup.

• A Government Order was issued on August 13, 1990, titled Office Memorandum No. 36012/31/90-Est(SCT).
• It declared 27% job reservations for SEBC, expanding previous reservations for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes only.
• The decision was influenced by the recommendations of the Mandal Commission, appointed in 1979 to evaluate backward classes and propose measures for their upliftment.
• Significant debates and protests emerged following this decision, reflecting the diverse opinions regarding caste reservations and equality.
• The Supreme Court ultimately validated the decision, allowing it to be implemented while suggesting modifications.
• This situation illustrates not only the roles of various institutions but also the need for judicial review in policy decisions.
• It shows that major policy decisions are not taken in isolation but through a long chain of events involving different levels of government and public involvement.
• Examples :
  The 1990 job reservation policy led to nationwide debates and was a catalyst for protests from various communities. The Supreme Court’s involvement in validating the policy illustrates the judiciary’s role in ensuring the legal standing of government decisions.,

Need for Political Institutions

This section addresses the necessity of institutions for effective governance in modern democracies. Political institutions like the legislature, executive, and judiciary ensure structured decision-making processes and accountability within the government framework.

• Institutions clarify roles and responsibilities, making governance more systematic.
• They enable broader public consultation in policy decisions, fostering democracy.
• While they may introduce delays, these are often necessary for ensuring decisions are well-considered.
• The Constitution outlines the functions of each institution, maintaining a check on governmental powers.
• Effective institutions contribute to stability and predictability in governance, allowing citizens to engage with the system.
• Institutions help prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a few.
• Disputes in governance can be resolved through established legal frameworks.
• Examples :
  An example could be how Parliament scrutinizes government policies, reflecting the necessity of political institutions in upholding democratic values.,

Parliament

Parliament is the supreme legislative body in a democracy, responsible for making laws and controlling government expenditure. This section elaborates on its structure, function, and importance in governance.

• Consists of two Houses: Lok Sabha (House of the People) and Rajya Sabha (Council of States).
• Lok Sabha members are directly elected and hold more power concerning financial matters.
• Rajya Sabha represents states and reviews laws passed by Lok Sabha.
• Parliament influences all major decisions and policies, holding the government accountable.
• Legislative procedures include discussions, debates, and voting, ensuring diverse opinions are considered.
• Parliament can introduce, amend, or revoke laws, maintaining legal order.
• Parliamentary checks ensure that the government acts within its prescribed authority.
• Examples :
  Discussions in Parliament regarding the Mandal Commission recommendations influenced government decision-making.,

Political Executive

This section distinguishes between the political and permanent executives within a government. The political executive, made up of elected representatives, is responsible for formulating major policies.

• Political executives are elected for fixed terms, while civil services (permanent executives) provide continuity and expertise.
• Ministers from the political executive take major decisions but rely on civil servants for implementation and advisory functions.
• The relationship between political and permanent executives is critical; the former holds power but often lacks technical expertise.
• The accountability of the political executive is to the electorate, while the civil services serve based on administrative functions.
• Political executives can appoint permanent executives but must work within the framework established by the Constitution.
• This collaboration is essential for effective governance and policy implementation.
• Examples :
  A minister may have less technical knowledge than civil servants but makes final decisions based on public will.,

The President

The President serves as the ceremonial head of state in India, exercising limited powers in contrast to the Prime Minister, who heads the government. This section discusses the role of the President in governance.

• Elected indirectly by MPs and MLAs, the President represents national unity but has no direct authority in decision-making.
• Executes laws on the advice of the Council of Ministers; hence, their role is largely ceremonial.
• Responsible for appointing key officials, including the Prime Minister and judges of the Supreme Court.
• Plays a crucial role during times of political uncertainty, like appointing a caretaker Prime Minister.
• The President also serves as the supreme commander of the armed forces.
• Functions in alignment with constitutional provisions to ensure legislative and executive actions are lawful.
• Examples :
  The President’s signature is required for a bill to become law, reflecting the system’s checks and balances.,

The Judiciary

This section highlights the judiciary’s role in safeguarding the Constitution and protecting citizens’ rights. An independent judiciary is vital for maintaining the rule of law in a democracy.

• It consists of various levels, with the Supreme Court being the highest authority.
• The judiciary has the power of judicial review, allowing it to nullify laws that violate constitutional provisions.
• Courts offer a platform for resolving disputes against the government, thereby holding it accountable.
• The independence of the judiciary protects it from executive and legislative interference, ensuring fair outcomes.
• Judges are appointed carefully to maintain impartiality, and removal is highly restricted, protecting judicial integrity.
• By interpreting the Constitution, the judiciary preserves fundamental rights and public interest.
• Examples :
  Activist cases where citizens’ rights were restored through judicial interventions highlight the importance of a functioning judiciary.,

Conclusion

The chapter emphasizes the intricate workings of political institutions in a democracy. Understanding the roles of the legislature, executive, and judiciary is crucial for recognizing how decisions are made and implemented, ensuring a system that reflects the will of the people while providing frameworks for accountability and legal recourse.: .

Keywords and Definitions:

• Legislature: An assembly of elected representatives with the authority to make laws.
• Executive: The branch of government responsible for implementing laws and policies.
• Judiciary: The judicial authority responsible for interpreting laws and administering justice.
• Parliament: The supreme legislative body in a country, usually comprised of two houses.
• Political Executive: Officials elected to make public policy decisions and run government operations.
• Permanent Executive: Civil servants who assist in administration and remain in office regardless of political changes.
• Office Memorandum: A written communication issued by a governmental authority outlining a policy decision or directive.
• Reservation: A policy in India that allocates certain positions in government employment and educational institutions for specific disadvantaged groups.