PARTICIPATION
Why do we have regular elections? You've already read in the previous chapter that people make decisions in a democracy. Through voting in elections, people elect leaders to represent them. These representatives take decisions on behalf of the people. In doing so it is assumed that they will keep in mind the voices and interests of the people.
All governments are elected for fixed periods. In India, this period is five years. Once elected, governments can stay in power only for that period. If they want to continue to be in power, then they have to be re-elected by the people. This is a moment when people can sense their power in a democracy. In this way, the power of the government gets limited by regular elections.
Discuss
Look at some newspapers and discuss some elections that you may have read about. Why do you think elections are required after a fixed period?
Source: This topic is taken from NCERT TEXTBOOK
OTHER WAYS OF PARTICIPATING
Elections are usually held once in five years. Besides voting, there are other ways of participating in the process of government. People participate by taking an interest in the working of the government and by criticising it when required. In August 2005, when a particular government increased the money people had to pay for electricity, people expressed their disapproval very sharply. They took out rallies and also organised a signature campaign. The government tried to explain and defend its decision but finally listened to the people's opinion and withdrew the increase. The government had to change its decision because it is responsible to the people.
There are many ways in which people express their views and make governments understand what actions they should take. These include dharnas, rallies, strikes, signature campaigns, etc. Things that are unfair and unjust are also brought forward. Newspapers, magazines, and TV also play a role in discussing government issues and responsibilities.
While it is true that democracy allows people to participate, it is also true that not all sections of people are actually able to do so. Another way for people to participate is by organising themselves into social movements that seek to challenge the government and its functioning. Members of the minority community, dalits, adivasis, women, and others are often able to participate in this manner.
If a country's people are alert and interested in how the country is run, the democratic character of the government of that country will be stronger.
So the next time we see a rally winding through the streets of our cities and towns or villages we should pause to find out what the rally is about, who is participating in it, and what they are protesting about. This will help to give us a sense of how our government works.
Activity:
Some letters to the editor given below. What approval or disapproval is being expressed here?
Source: This topic is taken from NCERT TEXTBOOK