🌟MISSION – MERIT Booklet Solutions 🌟
Q.1 Complete the sentences by choosing the correct option.
1. There are __________ Constituencies of Lok Sabha at present.
a) 2888
b) 350
c) 500
d) 543
Correct answer: d) 543
2. The Election Commissioner is appointed by the __________.
a) President
b) Prime Minister
c) Speaker of Lok Sabha
d) Vice-President
Correct answer: a) President
3. The first election in independent India was held in __________.
a) 1951–52
b) 1948–49
c) 1949–50
d) 1950–51
Correct answer: a) 1951–52
4. __________ system exists in India.
a) Single party
b) Two party
c) Multi party
d) No-party
Correct answer: c) Multi party
5. Constituencies are created by __________ committee of the Election Commission.
a) Selection
b) Delimitation
c) Voting
d) Time table
Correct answer: b) Delimitation
Q.2 State whether the following statements are True or False and give reason.
Under special circumstances the Election Commission holds re-elections in a particular constituency for a second time.
Answer: True
Reason – The Election Commission is empowered to conduct re-elections if any irregularity, malpractice, or violence occurs during the voting process. It can also disqualify a candidate or order re-polling to ensure that the election results truly represent the will of the people and that the process remains free and fair.
All the candidates those who fill the application for standing in the election can contest the election.
Answer: False
Reason – Every person who applies to contest an election must first undergo scrutiny by the Election Commission. The Commission carefully examines nomination papers to confirm that the candidates meet all eligibility criteria and have no disqualifications. Only after this verification process are the approved candidates allowed to contest the election.
The Election Commission lays down the code of conduct during elections.
Answer: True
Reason – The Election Commission enforces a Model Code of Conduct that defines how political parties, candidates, and government authorities must behave during elections. This code prevents misuse of power, ensures fair campaigning, and maintains discipline so that the elections are conducted in an impartial and transparent manner.
The state government decides as to when and in how many stages the elections would be held in particular state.
Answer: False
Reason – The power to decide the election schedule rests solely with the Election Commission of India. It prepares the entire timetable and programme for national and state elections after assessing security, logistics, and administrative needs. This independence prevents state governments from influencing election timing for political gain.
Q.3 Explain the following concepts.
1. Reorganizing the Constituencies:
Ans. Creating constituencies is the responsibility of the Delimitation Commission. It restructures constituencies without succumbing to any pressure. Every member of Lok Sabha represents one constituency.
2. Election Commission:
Ans. The Election Commission is an autonomous body established under Article 324 of the Constitution. It consists of one Chief Election Commissioner and two other commissioners. It conducts elections and ensures they are free and fair.
3. Midterm Elections:
Ans. When a government loses majority before completing its term and no alternative government is possible, elections are held before the completion of five years. These are called midterm elections.
Q.4 Write short notes.
1. Journey from ballot box to EVM machine:
Ans. In the first elections of 1951–52, ballot boxes were used. From the 1990s, EVM machines began to be used. They made voting easier, quicker, and environmentally friendly. Voters can also choose NOTA (None of the Above). It allows early declaration of results and easier voting for disabled persons.
2. Recognition to Political Parties:
Ans. India has a multiparty system. The Election Commission recognizes political parties and allots election symbols. It can also derecognize any political party. Recognition ensures equal opportunity in media and elections.
3. Election Commissioner:
Ans. The Chief Election Commissioner is appointed by the President. He cannot be removed easily to maintain independence. Sukumar Sen was the first Chief Election Commissioner after independence. The Commission ensures that elections are held freely and fairly.
Q.5 Answer the following questions.
1. Explain the functions of the Election Commissioner.
Ans.
* Preparing the voters list.
* Deciding the timetable and programme of elections.
* Scrutinizing candidates’ applications.
* Giving recognition to political parties and allotting symbols.
* Resolving disputes relating to elections.
2. Write some additional information about the post of the Election Commissioner.
Ans.
* Appointed by the President.
* Chief Election Commissioner cannot be removed easily.
* Has independent authority.
* Government officers and teachers assist in conducting elections.
* Expenses are provided separately.
3. Explain the meaning of Code of Conduct.
Ans. The Code of Conduct is a set of rules adopted by the Election Commission to ensure free and fair elections. It is binding on the Government, political parties, and voters. Even the Government cannot violate it.
4. What are the challenges faced by Election Commission in conducting free and fair election?
Ans.
* Misuse of money.
* Candidates with criminal background.
* Violence during elections.
* Family monopoly in politics.
5. Suggest some measures to make electoral process reliable.
Ans.
* Political parties should give 50% candidature to women.
* Parties should not give tickets to candidates with criminal background.
* Government should control election expenses.
* Representation of People’s Act should be amended to ban criminal candidates.
6. What steps are taken by the Election Commissioner to resolve the disputes relating to elections?
Ans.
* The Election Commission resolves disputes about elections.
* It can declare a candidate disqualified.
* It can order re-election in a particular constituency if necessary.
7. State the benefits of the use of EVM machine.
Ans.
* Easy for disabled (Divyang) people.
* Saves paper and protects the environment.
* Allows option of NOTA.
* Enables early declaration of results.
