Previous Year Question
Democracy’s superior virtue lies in the fact that it calls into activity:
the intelligence and character of ordinary men and women.
the methods for strengthening executive leadership.
a superior individual with dynamism and vision.
a band of dedicated party workers.
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
The superior virtue of democracy is that it enables ordinary citizens to participate in governance, deliberate upon public issues, choose representatives and hold the government accountable.
Through this process, the political intelligence, judgement, responsibility and public character of ordinary citizens are activated and developed. Democracy does not depend upon one exceptional leader or a specialised party group; its strength lies in broad public participation.
Democracy and citizen participation
Under democratic government, citizens:
Elect their representatives.
Express views on policies and public affairs.
Criticise and scrutinise governmental actions.
Bring about a peaceful transfer of power.
Participate in political parties, associations and civic organisations.
Hold representatives accountable through elections.
Constitutional foundations
Preamble
It declares India a democratic republic and seeks justice, liberty, equality and fraternity for its citizens.
Article 19(1)(a)
Freedom of speech and expression provides the foundation for democratic discussion, criticism of government and exchange of ideas.
Articles 19(1)(b) and 19(1)(c)
The freedoms of peaceful assembly and forming associations or unions enable political and civic participation.
Article 325
It provides for one general electoral roll for every constituency. No person can be excluded from an electoral roll only on the grounds of religion, race, caste or sex.
Article 326
It provides for elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies on the basis of adult suffrage. Subject to prescribed conditions, every citizen aged 18 years or above is entitled to be registered as a voter.
Article 324
It vests the superintendence, direction and control of specified elections, including elections to Parliament and State Legislatures, in the Election Commission.
Contribution of local democracy
Parts IX and IXA extend democratic participation to the local level through Panchayats and Municipalities. Constitutional reservation for women and for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes has widened opportunities for social participation in governance.
Other options
Option (b): Democracy does not merely seek to strengthen executive leadership; it places the executive under checks and accountability.
Option (c): Democracy is not government by a single superior or visionary individual. It subjects leadership to popular consent and constitutional limits.
Option (d): Political parties are important democratic instruments, but democracy is not confined to the activities of dedicated party workers.