Solutions-NCERT-Class-8-Social Science-Chapter-5-Universal Franchise and India’s Electoral System-CBSE

Universal Adult Franchise is the right of all adult citizens (above 18 years of age) to vote in an election, regardless of their caste, gender, role, creed, religion, economical, educational or social status.

An electoral system is the method used by a country to conduct elections and choose its representatives.
It explains how votes are cast, counted, and converted into seats or positions of power i.e it is the set of rules and procedures that decide who wins an election.

Key points:

• It decides how voters vote (for a candidate or a party).
• It explains how votes are counted.
• It determines how winners are selected.

Example: In India, the electoral system is First-Past-The-Post, where the candidate who gets the highest number of votes wins, even if it is not a majority.

This system plays an important role in ensuring fair representation and democracy.

• India follows a democratic electoral system to elect representatives at the national and state levels.
• The country uses the First-Past-the-Post system, where the candidate with the highest number of votes wins the election.
• India is divided into constituencies, and each constituency elects one representative.
• All citizens 18 years and above have the right to vote under universal adult franchise.
• Elections are conducted by the Election Commission of India to ensure free and fair elections.
• The party or coalition that wins a majority of seats forms the government.

• Lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 in 1988 was a good and democratic move.
• At 18, citizens are legally adults and capable of understanding political and social issues.
• This change increased youth participation and gave young people a voice in shaping the nation’s future.
• It helped strengthen democracy by making it more inclusive and representative.
• Although some argue that young voters may lack experience, education and awareness can address this issue.

Overall, the decision empowered youth and strengthened India’s democratic system.

• The Constitution makers chose universal adult franchise at the time of Independence to ensure equality and true democracy.
• They believed that the right to vote is a basic democratic right and should not depend on literacy, wealth, or social status.
• Limiting voting to literate people would have excluded the poor, women, and marginalized communities, who had already faced long-term discrimination.
• Universal franchise helped unite a diverse country and gave every citizen a sense of participation in nation-building.
• The leaders trusted that democracy would also encourage education and political awareness over time.
• Thus, granting voting rights to all adults strengthened India’s democratic foundation from the very beginning.

(i) Role of such measures in a democracy :

• These measures make democracy inclusive and participatory by ensuring that every citizen, including the elderly, disabled, and those in remote areas, can exercise the right to vote. They promote equality, fairness, and accessibility in the electoral process.

(ii) Anyone who benefited from these measures :

• Yes, elderly people and persons with disabilities have benefited greatly, especially from home voting facilities, ramps, wheelchairs, and Braille voter cards, which make voting easier and dignified for them.

(iii) How they may increase voter participation in the neighbourhood :

• When voting becomes convenient and accessible, more people—especially senior citizens and disabled voters—are encouraged to vote. This can reduce fear, physical difficulty, and hesitation, leading to higher turnout.

(iv) How technology can assist :

• Technology helps through mobile apps for assistance requests, voter awareness campaigns, online information, EVMs, and voter helplines. It makes elections efficient, transparent, and voter-friendly.

(i) Why many eligible voters did not vote :

• Many people do not vote due to lack of awareness, political apathy, or the belief that their vote does not matter.
• Some are busy with work, studies, or travel, while others feel disappointed with political parties or candidates.
• In urban areas, migration and poor updating of voter lists also reduce turnout.

(ii) Challenges faced in exercising voting rights :

• Voters often face long queues, distance to polling stations, health issues, and lack of facilities for the elderly and disabled.
• Some people are unaware of election dates or procedures.
• Fear, misinformation, and lack of trust in the system can also discourage voting.

(iii) Report: Low Voter Turnout in 2024 – Causes and Solutions

Introduction:
In the 2024 elections, about 34 per cent of eligible voters did not vote, which is a matter of concern for a democracy like India.

Analysis:
The data shows that voter turnout is affected by apathy, lack of awareness, logistical problems, and social barriers. Youth and urban voters are among the least participative groups.

Suggestions:

• Increase voter education and awareness campaigns, especially among youth.
• Expand home voting and mobile polling booths.
• Use technology and apps for reminders, voter registration, and assistance.
• Improve polling facilities to reduce waiting time and inconvenience.
• Encourage schools, colleges, and media to promote the importance of voting.

Conclusion: Ensuring maximum participation requires making voting easy, inclusive, and meaningful. Higher voter turnout strengthens democracy and ensures that the government truly represents the will of the people.

The election process in the caselet mirrors a real-world democratic election through several key stages:

• Defining the Role: The position of Class Representative was clearly defined as a bridge between students and authorities.
• Contesting Candidates: Three students (Ahmed, Gurmat, and Ravi) chose to run for the position.
• Election Management: An independent Election Officer (Ms. Usha) was appointed to ensure the process was fair and transparent.
• Campaigning: Candidates presented their platforms—ranging from classroom cleanliness to academic peer coaching and arts curriculum expansion—using posters, noticeboards, and performances.
• Organized Voting: A formal voting day was held using ballot papers and a sealed ballot box.
• Transparent Counting: The counting was witnessed by an outside party (Ms. Sheeba) to ensure accuracy.

• A secret ballot was essential because it ensured the process was private and fair.
• By ensuring no one knew who voted for whom, students were free to make their choice based on their actual preference without feeling pressured by friends or fear of disapproval from the candidates.

Students likely weighed several factors when choosing their representative:

• The Platforms: They had to decide which promise was most important to them—cleanliness, academic support through peer coaching, or more time for the arts.
• Candidate Credibility: Students may have considered who would be most effective at acting as a "bridge" to school authorities.
• Campaign Impact: The way candidates presented themselves, such as Ravi’s music performance or Ahmed’s posters, likely influenced student perceptions.

Yes, students have several responsibilities now that the election is over:

• Support and Cooperation: As Ahmed and Ravi demonstrated by offering their support, the class needs to work with the winner to help them fulfill their commitments.
• Participation: Since Gurmat’s platform involved "mutual support" and "peer coaching," her success depends on the active participation of her classmates.
• Accountability: Students should stay engaged to ensure the representative actually works toward the promises made during the campaign.

Ms. Usha acted as the Election Officer. Her role was critical because she:

• Ensured Fairness: She set the rules and ensured they were followed.
• Educated Voters: She explained the secret ballot process so everyone understood how to participate.
• Ensured Inclusivity: She made specific arrangements, like the braille ballot, so every student could vote.
• Maintained Integrity: By sealing the ballot box and inviting a witness for the counting, she guaranteed the legitimacy of the result.

• Providing a braille ballot for Neha was vital to ensure inclusive and accessible participation.
• It allowed Neha to exercise her democratic right independently and privately, just like any other student, ensuring that "no voter is left behind".

In this caselet, when one student left their ballot paper unmarked, it was declared invalid. If many students chose not to mark a preference, it could lead to:

• Weakened Mandate: The elected representative might win with a very small number of votes, making it harder for them to claim they truly represent the class's will.
• Missed Opportunity: Students would lose their primary chance to influence school and class policies.
• The "None of the Above" (NOTA) Message: While not explicitly used in this class, the sources note that in real elections, choosing not to vote for any candidate (NOTA) sends a powerful message that voters are dissatisfied with the choices provided.

Student should do it by self.

Hint :

In India, many teachers are assigned election duty to help conduct voting at polling stations.

• They often work as presiding officers, polling officers, or counting assistants, ensuring the election process runs smoothly and fairly.
• Teachers are chosen because they are usually educated, responsible, and respected in the community.
• While on election duty, they help set up polling stations, verify voter identity, manage Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and maintain order.
• They are given official duty leave, so their regular teaching work is paused for that day.

Teachers deputed for election duty receive special training from the Election Commission of India to ensure smooth and fair conduct of elections.

The training usually includes:

• Understanding duties of presiding officers and polling officers.
• How to set up, operate, and seal voting machines (EVM and VVPAT) correctly.
• Checking voter IDs and maintaining voter lists.
• Opening and closing of polling stations, mock polls, and recording votes.
• Maintaining fairness, secrecy of voting, and discipline.
• Dealing with queues, technical issues, or minor disputes calmly.

This system helps the Election Commission conduct free and fair elections across the country.

These actions are considered violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) because they undermine free and fair elections:

(i) Distribution of sarees and household appliances :

• This is a form of bribery and inducement. Voters may feel pressured or influenced to vote for a candidate in return for gifts, which is unfair.

(ii) Use of abusive language against an opposing candidate :

• Abusive or hate-filled language lowers the dignity of elections and can create tension or hostility among voters. The MCC requires candidates to maintain respectful and civil conduct.

(iii) Government officials campaigning for the ruling party :

• Government officials must remain politically neutral. Campaigning for a party misuses official position and public resources, giving an unfair advantage.

(iv) Bundles of ₹500 notes found in a candidate’s car :

• This suggests vote-buying or illegal expenditure. It violates election spending rules and threatens the fairness and transparency of the electoral process.

Overall, such actions disturb the level playing field and weaken public trust in democracy.

The concerns of an MP and MLAs differ in scope.

• An MP focuses on national issues, such as passing laws, representing the region in Parliament, and addressing broader topics like infrastructure, economic growth, and
• national policies.
• MLAs, however, concentrate on local matters like improving roads, water supply, healthcare, education, and ensuring that state policies benefit their communities.
• While the MP deals with national governance, MLAs focus on the development and needs of their constituencies.

(i) Why these groups are not involved in electing the President of India :

• The President of India is elected by an electoral college of elected representatives only.
• The groups mentioned are nominated members, not directly chosen by the people, or members of bodies that do not represent the people at the national level.
• Since the President represents the will of the people through their elected representatives, only elected MPs and MLAs are included in the electoral college.

(ii) Why common people do not directly elect the President :

• India follows a parliamentary system of government, where real executive power lies with the Council of Ministers, not the President.
• The President is a constitutional head, so a direct election by the public is not necessary.
• Indirect election helps maintain a balance between the Union and the States and avoids unnecessary political competition for a largely ceremonial post.

Universal adult franchise is important for a healthy democracy because,

• It gives every adult citizen, regardless of caste, religion, gender, education, or wealth, the right to vote.
• This helps the government truly represent the will of the people.
• It ensures political equality by following the principle of “one person, one vote, one value.”
• This system makes leaders accountable to the people and promotes inclusivity and social justice.
• By empowering all citizens to participate in elections, universal franchise strengthens democracy and nation-building.

A secret ballot means that a voter’s choice is kept confidential and is not known to anyone else. No one can force a voter to reveal whom they voted for.

• This is important in a democracy because it allows people to vote freely and without fear.
• It protects voters from pressure, threats, or bribery by powerful individuals or parties.
• The secret ballot ensures free and fair elections and strengthens trust in the democratic system.

(i) Direct elections: In direct elections, people vote directly to choose their representatives.
Examples:

• Lok Sabha elections in India
• State Legislative Assembly elections
• Municipal and Panchayat elections

(ii) Indirect elections: In indirect elections, representatives are elected by elected members, not directly by the public.

Examples:

• Election of the President of India (by elected MPs and MLAs)
• Election of the Vice-President of India
• Election of Rajya Sabha members by State Legislative Assemblies

These two methods help run a democracy efficiently at different levels.

The election of members to the Lok Sabha is different from that of the Rajya Sabha in several ways:

• Lok Sabha members are elected directly by the people through general elections, while Rajya Sabha members are elected indirectly by the elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.
• The Lok Sabha represents the people of India, whereas the Rajya Sabha represents the states and union territories.
• Lok Sabha elections are held using the First-Past-The-Post system, but Rajya Sabha elections follow the proportional representation system with a single transferable vote.
• Members of the Lok Sabha are elected for a fixed term of five years, while the Rajya Sabha is a permanent house, with one-third of its members retiring every two years.
• The Lok Sabha can be dissolved, but the Rajya Sabha cannot be dissolved.

These differences reflect their distinct roles in India’s parliamentary system.

Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) have several advantages over paper ballots:

• Faster and accurate counting of votes, with results available in less time.
• Reduced chances of invalid votes, as voters simply press a button.
• Greater security, since EVMs reduce ballot stuffing and other malpractices.
• Cost-effective and eco-friendly, as they save paper and can be reused.
• Easy to transport and use, especially in remote and rural areas.

EVMs make the election process efficient, transparent, and reliable.

Voter turnout in some urban areas of India has been declining due to several reasons.

• Many urban voters show political apathy and feel that their vote does not make a difference.
• Busy lifestyles, work commitments, migration, and mismatch in voter registration (name not on the local voter list) also reduce participation.
• Some people are dissatisfied with political parties or candidates, while others lack awareness about polling dates and procedures.

To encourage more people to vote,

• Voter awareness campaigns should be strengthened, especially among youth and first-time voters.
• Making voting more convenient through better polling facilities, shorter queues, and flexible options like home or early voting can help.
• Use of technology, such as mobile apps, reminders, and online voter services, can increase participation.
• Encouraging a sense of civic responsibility through schools, colleges, media, and community groups can also motivate urban voters to take part in elections.

Question 7. Why do you think a proportion of seats in the Lok Sabha is reserved for scheduled castes and scheduled tribes? Write a short note.

• A proportion of seats in the Lok Sabha is reserved for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) to ensure fair representation of historically disadvantaged communities.
• These groups faced long-term social discrimination and exclusion, which limited their participation in politics.
• Reservation helps them voice their concerns and protect their interests in the law-making process.
• It promotes social justice and equality as promised by the Constitution.
• Thus, reservation strengthens democracy by making it more inclusive and representative.

Question 8. Social media is changing the way we experience elections— from catchy campaign reels and live speeches to political debates on Instagram and Twitter. But is this strengthening democracy or confusing it? Discuss in pairs: What are the benefits, what are the challenges, and what might the future of elections be in a digital age?

Social media has strongly changed how elections are experienced, especially for young voters. It has both positive and negative effects on democracy.

Benefits:

• Social media makes elections more accessible and engaging.
• Candidates can reach voters directly through live speeches, reels, and posts without depending only on traditional media.
• It helps spread political awareness, encourages discussions, and motivates first-time voters to participate.

Challenges:

• At the same time, social media can confuse voters.
• Fake news, misinformation, hate speech, and edited videos can mislead people.
• Echo chambers and algorithm-driven content may show voters only one side of the story, reducing balanced thinking.
• Online abuse also discourages healthy debate.

Future of elections in the digital age:

In the future, elections are likely to become more digital and tech-driven, with greater use of data, AI, and online outreach.

• Online Voting: Elections might become more digital, offering secure online voting to increase turnout.
• AI and Data Analytics: Campaigns may rely more on data to target voters with personalised messages.
• Greater Regulation: There may be stronger rules to manage political ads, misinformation, and digital campaigning.
• Hybrid Campaigning: A mix of digital and traditional methods will likely shape future elections, blending technology with grassroots methods.

Summary of election results from the 2024 parliamentary (Lok Sabha) elections and a state assembly election in Maharashtra:

In 2024 Lok Sabha Election (Parliamentary Elections) :

In the 2024 general election for the Lok Sabha, all 543 seats in Parliament were contested.

According to the official Election Commission results:

• Different parties won seats across India, with national and regional parties securing various constituencies.
• The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the largest number of seats, followed by the Indian National Congress (INC), the Samajwadi Party (SP), All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and others

2024 Lok Sabha Results in Maharashtra :

In the state of Maharashtra specifically:

• The general election for all 48 Lok Sabha seats was held on 19 April – 20 May 2024.
• The Indian National Congress significantly increased its seat tally in Maharashtra, winning 13 seats.
• The BJP, part of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), continued to win several seats, but with fewer than in previous elections.

This shows that different parties performed differently across regions, reflecting varied political preferences in different parts of the country.

2024 Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Election :

• State assembly elections in Maharashtra were held on 20 November 2024 to elect all 288 members of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.
• The Mahayuti alliance — mainly consisting of the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar group) — won a landslide victory with a large majority of seats. They won 235 out of 288 seats.
• The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, featuring the Congress, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray’s faction), and Sharad Pawar’s NCP faction, won fewer seats in comparison.

After this election, the alliance with the majority forms the state government, and typically the leader of the majority party becomes the Chief Minister