Electoral Politics - Long Answer Questions
A mechanism by which people can choose their representatives at regular intervals and change them if they wish.
To choose who will make laws, form government, and guide policies. Without elections, a large population cannot rule directly.
1. Everyone should have one vote/one value. 2. Parties offers real choice. 3. Regular intervals. 4. Free and fair manner.
A geographical area divided for the purpose of election. Voters in that area elect one representative.
Some constituencies are reserved for SCs and STs so that weaker sections get representation. (Lok Sabha: 84 SC, 47 ST).
The list of people who are eligible to vote. Prepared by Election Commission.
Anyone who can vote can also be a candidate (min age 25). They fill a nomination form and deposit money.
The period (2 weeks) between announcement of list and polling date where parties promote their policies and candidates ask for votes.
A set of norms and guidelines to be followed by pol parties and candidates during election. (e.g., No using govt vehicles, no bribing voters).
An independent constitutional body responsible for conducting free and fair elections.
Head of ECI. Appointed by President but not answerable to him. Very powerful.
The percentage of eligible voters who actually cast their vote.
Fraud and malpractice aimed at stealing an election (stuffing ballot boxes, intimidation).
The current holder of a political office.
Slogan given by Indira Gandhi (Congress) in 1971 election.
Slogan by Janata Party in 1977 against Emergency.
Electronic Voting Machine. Used to record votes.
Elections held in all constituencies at the same time (every 5 years).
Election held in one constituency to fill a vacancy caused by death or resignation.
A legal declaration giving details of assets, criminal cases, and education of the candidate.
Electoral Politics - Important Facts
Lok Sabha has 543 constituencies.
Different states have different number of constituencies (UP 80).
Voting age is 18 years.
Candidate age is 25 years.
EPIC is Election Photo Identity Card.
One vote, One value.
ECI is autonomous.
CEC cannot be removed easily.
In India, poor people vote more than rich.
In US, rich vote more.
Acceptance of election outcome is key.
Ruling parties often lose elections in India (Anti-incumbency).
Money power is a challenge.
Criminals in politics is a challenge.
Dynastic politics is a challenge.
Booth capturing is rare now due to EVMs.
Campaign uses slogans/posters/rallies.
Land to the Tiller - slogan by Left Front.
Protect Self-Respect of Telugus - NT Rama Rao.
Model Code of Conduct prevents misuse.
Govt cannot announce new schemes during code.
Polling Agent ensures fair counting.
First General Election: 1951-52.
Electoral Politics - Important Dates/Terms
Indira Gandhi wins (Garibi Hatao)
Janata Party wins (Save Democracy)
EVMs nationwide