Exercise - Question:
Que: How would Maya’s life be different in South Africa today?
Ans: Maya’s life would be different in South Africa today in terms of equal status in society. She would get a school where children from all classes, rich or poor, high or low, black or white study together. The same hospital would treat her which treats for all sorts of people. There would be no ambulance to be used separately for any white or ruling class. She would get the equal voting right. She would use language of her choice. She would lead a free life.
Que: What are the various ways in which people participate in the process of government?
Ans:
There are various ways in which people participate in the process of government:
(i) Through voting in elections people elect leaders of their choice to represent them. These representatives take decisions on behalf of the people.
(ii) People participate in the process of government by taking an interest in the working of the government and by criticising it when required.
(iii) People express their views through several ways and make governments understand what actions they should take. They stage dhamas, hold rallies, strikes, signature campaigns, etc.
(iv) Another ways 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 can participate in this manner.
Q3.Why do you think we need the government to find solutions to many disputes or conflicts?
Answer:
Government is a constitutional body that maintains law and order. It consists of the representatives of all classes from all parts of the country. Problems or conflicts arise in states, between two or more states and sometimes between two nations. The government represents the country and also the head of the constitutional system. So, it can resolve conflicts in the interest of the people at large. A system without a government may face crisis and lawlessness. Hence, government is necessary.
Que: What actions does the government take to ensure that all people are treated equally?
Ans: The government ensures that the constitutional provisions are implied in the country. It makes laws and enforces them to abolish all sorts of discriminations. It makes provisions to provide equal facilities to all classes of people, promotion of education among girls and economically backwards. These are some of the actions that the government takes to ensure equality among people.
Que: Read through the chapter and discuss some of the key ideas of a democratic government. Make a list. For example, all people are equal
Ans:
(i) All people are equal.
(ii) Justice to all.
(iii) Opportunities for equal education to all.
(iv) Abolition of discriminations.
(v) Equal status to all religions.
(vi) Abolition of untouchability.
