1 Power Sharing

MCQ (Multiple choice-based questions) (1) 1. Which of the following

features are common to Indian and Belgian form of power-sharing arrangements?
A. Power is shared among governments at different levels.
B. Power is shared among different organs of government.
C. Power is shared among different social groups.
D. Power is shared among different parties and takes the form of competition.
(a) A, B, C, D
(b) B, C and D
(c) A and C
(d) A, C and D

Answer
Answer: (b) B, C and D

2. In dealing with power sharing, which one of the following statements is NOT correct about democracy?
(a) People are the source of all political power. !

(b) In a democracy, people rule themselves j through institutions of self-governance.

(c) In a democracy, due respect is given to diverse groups and views that exist in a society.
(d) In a democracy, if the power to decide is dispersed, it is not possible to take quick decisions and enforce
them.
Answer
Answer: d

3. A belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by
disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority is:
(a) Power Sharing
(b) Central Government
(c) Majoritarianism
(d) Community Government

Answer
Answer: c

4. A system of ‘checks and balances’ is another name for which one of the following power-sharing
arrangements:
(a) Power sharing among different social groups.
(b) Vertical division of power or power shared among different levels of government.
(c) Horizontal division of power or power shared among different organs of the government.

(d) Power sharing in the form of political parties, pressure groups and governments.
Answer
Answer: c

5. Which one of the following statements about power-sharing arrangements is correct?

(a) Power sharing is necessary only in societies which have religious, linguistic or ethnic divisions.
(b) Power sharing is suitable only for big countries that have regional divisions.
(c) Every society needs some form of power sharing even if it is small or does not have social divisions.
(d) Power-sharing is not necessary at all.

Answer
Answer: c

6. Consider the following statements about the

ethnic composition of Sri Lanka:
A. Major social groups are the Sinhala- speaking (74%) and Tamil-speaking (18%)?
B. Among the Tamils, there are two sub-groups, Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
C. There are about 7% Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.

D. Most of the Sinhala-speaking are Hindus or Muslims and most of the Tamil-speaking are Buddhists.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) A, B, C
(b) A, B, D
(c) B, C, D
(d) A, B, C, D
Answer
Answer: (a) A, B, C

7. Prudential reasons of power sharing stress on the facts that:

A. It ensures the stability of political order.
B. It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.
C. It gives a fair share to minority.
D. It is the very spirit of democracy.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(a) A, B
(b) A, C and D
(c) All are correct
(d) A, B & C

Answer
Answer: d
Fill in the Blanks

1. When European countries came together to form the European Union (EU), ………. was chosen as the
headquarters.
2. The ………. distribution of power is also called a system of checks and balances.

3. The religion followed by Sinhala-speaking people in Sri Lanka is ……….

4. ………. division of power means power to be shared among the government at different levels.
5. In ………. leaders realised that unity of the country is possible by respecting the interests of different
communities.
6. In the year ………. an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the official language.
Answers

1. Brussels
2. horizontal
3. Buddhism
4. Federal
5. Belgium
6. 1956 Previous Year’s Questions
1. Choose the correct option : [CBSE (CCE) 2011]
Power sharing is desirable because it helps :
(a) To increase pressure on government.
(b) To reduce possibilities of conflicts.
(c) To generate awareness among people.
(d) To increase percentage of voters.

2. Which major social group constituted the largest share in population of Sri Lanka? [CBSE (CCE) 2011]
(a) Sinhalas
(b) Sri Lankan Tamils
(c) Indian Tamils
(d) Muslims

3. Which of the following is an example of horizontal sharing of power? [CBSE (CCE) 2011]
(a) Power sharing between different states.
(b) Power sharing between different organs of the government.
(c) Power sharing between different levels of the government.
(d) Power sharing between different political parties.

4. Which of the following statements is NOT true? [CBSE (CCE) 2011]

(a) In Belgium, leaders realised that unity of the country is possible only by sharing power.
(b) In Sri Lanka, the majority community wants to force domination over others.
(c) In Sri Lanka, the demand for more autonomy to provinces populated by Tamils has been granted.
(d) Division of Belgium along linguistic lines was averted due to power sharing.

5. Who elects the communist government in Belgium? [CBSE (CCE) 2011]

(a) People belonging to one language community only.
(b) By the leader of Belgium.
(c) The citizens of the whole country.
(d) The community leaders of Belgium.

NCERT Questions
6. Consider the following statements about power sharing arrangements in Belgium and Sri Lanka :
A. In Belgium the Dutch-speaking majority people tried to impose their domination on the minority French
speaking community.
B. In Sri Lanka the policies of government ensured the dominance of the Sinhala speaking majority.
C. The Tamils in Sri Lanka demanded a federal arrangement of power sharingto protect their culture,
language and equality of opportunity in education and jobs.
D. The transformation of Belgium from unitary government to a federal one prevented a possible division of
the country on linguistic lines.
Which of the statements given are correct ?
(a) A, B, C and D
(b) A, B, and D
(c) C and D
(d) B, C and D

7. Match List I (forms of powe- sharing) with List II (forms of government) and select the correct answer
using codes given below the lists :

List I List II

(i) Power shared among different organs of government A. Community government

(ii) Power shared among governments at different levels B. Separation of Powers

(iii) Power shared by different social groups C. Coalition government

(iv) Power shared by two or more political parties D. Federal government

(a) (i) – D, (ii) – A, (iii) – B, (iv) – C

(b) (i) – B, (ii) – C, (iii) – D, (iv) – A
(c) (i) – B, (ii) – D, (iii) – A, (iv) – C
(d) (i) – C, (ii) – D, (iii) – A, (iv) – B

Additional Questions

8. The Community Government signifies:

(a) The powers of government regarding community development.
(b) The powers of the government regarding law making for the community.
(c) The powers of the government regarding cultural, educational and language related issues.
(d) The government enjoys privileges to safeguard the interest of a particular community.

9. System of ‘checks and balances’ means:

(a) Horizontal distribution of powers.
(b) Separation of powers.
(c) Put a check on the exercise of unlimited powers of the organs of government by maintaining a balance of
power among various institutions.
(d) Federal division of powers.

10. A belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants is
(a) Community Government
(b) Federal Government
(c) Majoritarian
(d) Prudential

11. Power sharing is :

(a) the very spirit of democracy.
(b) separation of powers at different levels.
(c) system of checks and balances.
(d) a type of balancing powers.

12. Vertical division of power is :

(a) a system in which each organ of government checks the others.
(b) a type of distribution in which power is shared among different organs of government.
(c) a type of distribution of power which involves the higher and lower levels of government.
(d) a type of government elected by people.

13. Coalition government is the government:

(a) based on prudential and moral reasons.
(b) government of the majority community.
(c) the government elected by the people.
(d) an alliance government formed by two or more parties, if no single party gets a majority in the election.

14. The word ‘ethnic’ signifies :

(a) different religions.
(b) social division on shared culture.
(c) a violent conflict between opposite groups.
(d) a careful calculation of gains and losses.

15. Which are the important features of prudential reason ?

(i) Emphasises intrinsic worth of power sharing.
(ii) Based on careful calculation of gains or losses.
(iii) Based on moral consideration.
(iv) Stresses on beneficial consequences.
(a) (ii) and (iii)
(b) (i) and (iv)
(c) (ii) and (iv)
(d) (i) and (iii)

16. Which statement justifies the ethnic complexity of Sri Lanka?

(a) Sinhalese – 80%, Tamils – 20%
(b) Sinhalese – 60%, Tamils – 40%
(c) Sinhalese – 74%, Tamils – 18%
(d) Sinhalese – 76%, Tamils – 18%

17. Consider the statements on Ethnic composition :

(a) The Ethnic composition of Belgium is very complex because of diverse language speaking people like
Dutch speaking, French speaking and German speaking.
(b) French speaking community was in minority and more powerful.
(c) Dutch speaking community was in majority and less powerful.
(d) There was conflict between the French and the Dutch communities.

18. Prudential reasons of power sharing stresses on:

(a) The stability of political order.
(b) To reduce the possibility of conflict between social group.
(c) A fair chance/share to minority.
(d) All the above.

19. The majority of population in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium speaks :
(a) French
(b) Dutch
(c) German
(d) Roman

20. The proportion of Tamils in Sri Lanka’s total population is about:

(a) 8 percent
(b) 18 percent
(c) 28 percent
(d) 38 percent

21. In India, power sharing mechanism does not directly involve:

(a) Judiciary
(b) Legislature
(c) Executive
(d) Industry

22. Power sharing does not:

(a) accommodate diversities.
(b) speed up the decision making process.
(c) increases conflict among different commuriities.
(d) All the above.

23. Coalition Government implies :

(a) power sharing among different organs of the government.
(b) power sharing by different communities.
(c) power sharing by two or more political parties.
(d) power sharing within the government at different levels.

24. The religion of state in Sri Lanka is :

(a) Buddhism
(b) Christianity
(c) Hinduism
(d) Islam.
25. A strategy under which all the major segments of the society are provided with a permanent share of
power in the governance of the country is known as:
(a) secularism
(b) power sharing
(c) majoritarianism
(d) minoritism.

26. The majority of the population in Belgium lives in:

(a) Wallonia region and speaks French
(b) Wallonia region and speaks Dutch
(c) Flemish region and speaks Dutch
(d) Flemish region and speaks French

27. Belgium successfully solved its problem by :

(a) rejecting the policy of majoritarianism.
(b) developing a power sharing mechanism.
(c) respecting the interest of different communities.
(d) All the above.

28. The power of different levels of government shows:

(a) separation of powers.
(b) community Government.
(c) coalition Government.
(d) the federal division of power.

29. Match the following :

A. Ethnic Composition (i) A violent conflict between opposite groups within a country.
B. Majoritarianism (ii) Based on prudence, i.e., a careful calculation of gains or losses.
C. Civil War (iii) A social division based on shared culture.
D. Prudential reason (iv) A belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country.
E. Vertical division (v) Power is shared among power different organs of the government.
F. Horizontal (vi) Power is involved in the division of the higher and lower power levels of government.
(a) A – (iv), B – (iii), C – (ii), D – (i), E – (v), F – (vi)
(b) A – (iii), B – (iv), C – (i), D – (ii), E – (vi), F – (v)
(c) A – (i), B – (ii), C – (iii), D – (iv), E – (v), F – (vi)
(d) A – (ii), B – (iv), C – (iv), D – (v), E – (vi), F – (i)

30. Consider the following two statements on power-sharing and select the answer using codes given below:
A. Power sharing is good for democracy.
B. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
Which of the statements are true and false?
(a) A is true but B is false
(b) Both A and B are true
(c) Both A and B are false
(d) A is false but B is true.

31. Indicate true and false for given statements and give valid reasons:
(a) In Belgium, the Dutch speaking majority people tried to impose their domination on the minority French
speaking community.
(b) In Sri Lanka, the policies of the government sought to ensure the domination of the Sinhala speaking
majority.
(c) The Transformation of Belgium from a unitary government to a federal one presented possible division
of the country on linguistic lines.
(d) The Tamils in Sri Lanka demanded a federal arrangement of power to protect their culture, language, and
equality of opportunity in education and jobs.
Answer:
(a) False – because French people tried to impose their domination.
(b) True – As Sri Lanka followed the majoritarian concept.
(c) False – But it helped in power-sharing on linguistic lines.
(d) True – As Tamils were alienated from the mainstream of power-sharing.

MCQs

1-A 2-C 3-A 4-D 5-C 6-B 7-C 8-D 9-B 10-B
11-A 12-C 13-A 14-C 15-B 16-A 17-A 18-D 19-C 20-B
21-C 22-A 23-C 24-A 25-C 26-D 27-B 28-B 29-B 30-B
31-C 32-B 33-B 34-C 35-D 36-A 37-A 38-C 39-C 40-D
41-A 42-D 43-A 44-B 45-C 46-B 47-D 48-B 49-B 50-C
51-B 52-B 53-A 54-C 55-C 56-B 57-C 58-A 59-D 60-B

NCERT Based questions(5) Q.1. What are the different forms of power-sharing in
modern democracies? Give an example of each of these.
Ans.
In modern democracies, the different forms of power sharing are given below with an example of each
:
(1)

1. Power sharing among different organs of government such as the legislature, executive and
judiciary.
2. It is called horizontal distribution pf power
3. For example, in India Parliament enacts laws. Executive executes or implements them and
judiciary checks the functioning of executive or laws made by the leg statures.

(2) Power sharing among governments at different levels :

1. There are governments at the National, State and Local levels.

2. Powers are divided among these governments. For example in India, there is a division of
powers between Center and the States. There are three lists i.e., Union list, State list and
Concurrent list. The residuary powers which have not been included in the three lists are with
the Central Government.
(3) Power sharing among different social groups :

1. Sometimes religious and linguistic groups too share power as is the case in Belgium where
there is a “community government” which is elected by people belonging to one language
community no matter where they live.
2. Such government enjoys power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues.

(4) Power sharing among political parties, pressure groups and movements : In a democracy political
parties, pressure groups and movements control or influence those in power. Sometimes power is shared by
different political parties having different ideologies. Such alliances form coalition government.

Q.2. State one prudential reason and one moral reason for power-sharing with an example from the
Indian context. [CBSE Sept. 2010]
Ans.
(i) (a) India is a multicultural society.
(b) India is a democratic country.

More Resources for CBSE Class 10

 NCERT Solutions
 NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Science
 NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Maths
 NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social

Q.3. After reading this chapter, three students drew different conclusions. Which of these do you
agree with and why ? Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Thomman – Power sharing is necessary only in societies which have religious, linguistic or ethnic
divisions.

Mattai – Power sharing is suited only for big countries that have regional divisions.

Ousep – Every society needs some form of power sharing even if they are small or do not have social
divisions.
Ans.
The conclusion drawn by Ouseph is correct. Every society needs some form of power-sharing even if it is
small or does not have social divisions because power-sharing helps to reduce the possibility of conflicts
among individuals too. For example, there may be a difference of opinion among the members of a joint
family. Such differences may be resolved if responsibilities and powers are divided among the members of
the family. Similar is the case in societies and governments. Thus there should be power-sharing in small or
big societies or countries.
If there are different communities in a country they should try to accommodate each other as has been done
in Belgium – where the French-speaking people accepted equal representation in Brussels because the
Dutch-speaking community has accepted equal representation in the central government.

Q.4. The Mayor of Merchtem, a town near Brussels in Belgium, has defended a ban on speaking
French in the town’s schools. He said that the ban would help all non¬Dutch speakers integrate in this
Flemish town. Do you think that this measure is in keeping with the spirit of Belgium’s power sharing
arrangements ? Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Ans.
The ban on speaking French in the town’s schools in Merchtem is not in keeping with the spirit of
Belgium’s power-sharing arrangements because this is a Flemish town. Dutch is spoken by the people in this
region. The ban is an example of the imposition of the will of the majority on the minority which is against
the principle of accommodation under which the Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional
differences and cultural diversities. However, they amended their constitution to work out an arrangement
that would enable everyone to live together within the country. On the other hand, the ban on speaking
French may result in strained relations between French-speaking and Dutch-speaking communities.

Q.5. Read the following passage, and pick out any one of the prudential reasons for power sharing
offered in this.
“We need to give more power to the panchayats to realise the dream of Mahatma Gandhi, and the
hopes of the makers of our Constitution. The Panchayati Raj establishes true democracy. It restores
power to the only place where power belongs in a democracy – in the hands of the people. Giving
power to Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption, and increase administrative efficiency. When
people participate in the planning and implementation of developmental schemes, they would
naturally exercise greater control over these schemes. This would eliminate the corrupt middlemen.
Thus the Panchayati Raj will strengthen the foundations of our democracy.”
Ans. The following prudential reasons are cited into the passage for power sharing.
(a) Reducing corruption by giving power into the hands of the people and thus, making them responsible for
their own decisions.
(b) Increasing administrative efficiency by delegating the decision-making function to the people affected by
it.
(c) Improving the efficiency of the system by reducing the number of middlemen, and transferring the
planning and implementation to the people concerned through the Panchayats.

Multiple Choice Questions

ANSWERS

Very short type questions(1-2) Question 1.

Which are the border states of Belgium ?
Answer:
The border states of Belgium are Netherlands, France and Germany.

Question 2.
What is the meaning of ethnic ?
Answer:

1. Ethnic means a social division based on shared culture.

2. People belonging to the same ethnic group believe in their common descent because of
similarities of physical type or of culture or both,
3. They need not always have the same religion or nationality.
Question 3.
Which languages are spoken in Belgium ? What is their percentage ?
Answer:

1. Dutch language – 59 per cent

2. French language – 40 per cent
3. German language – 01 per cent.

Question 4.
What is the percentage of French and Dutch-speaking people in the capital city of Brussels ?
Answer:

1. French-speaking – 80 per cent

2. Dutch-speaking – 20 per cent.

Question 5.
State one special problem in Brussels.
Answer:
In Brussels the special problem was that the Dutch-speaking people constituted a majority in the country but
a minority in the capital (Brussels).

Question 6.
Which language is spoken by majority of Sri Lanka ? [CBSE 2016-17]
Answer:
Sinhala is spoken by 74 per cent people in Sri Lanka.

Question 7.
What is the percentage of Tamil-speaking people ?
Answer:
18 per cent people speak Tamil.

Question 8.
What is majoritarianism ?
Answer:
Majoritarianism is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it
wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority.

Question 9.
When was the Act passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language in Sri Lanka ?
Answer:
In 1956.

Question 10.
What was the result of policy of majoritarianism in Sri Lanka ?
Answer:
It increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils.

Question 11.
What was the object of constitutional amendments between 1970 and 1993 in Belgium ?
Answer:
The object was to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same
country.
Question 12.
The community government in Belgium is a good example of which form of power sharing ?
[CBSE 2016-17]
Answer:
Power sharing among governments at different levels.

Question 13.
Which is third unique form of govt, practiced in Belgium ? [CBSE 2016-17]
Or
Apart from the central and the state government, what is the other form of government in Belgium ?
Answer:
Apart from central and the state government there is a third kind of government viz community government
elected by people belonging to one language community – Dutch, French and German-speaking – no matter
where they live.

Question 14.
Which type of powers does the community government of Belgium enjoy ? [CBSE 2016-17]
Answer:
The community government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues.

Question 15.
Which are the two reasons for power sharing and mention one advantage of each ?
Answer:

1. Prudential reason : It helps to reduce the possibility of conflicts between social groups.
2. Moral reason : It is good for democracies. It is the very spirit of democracy.

Question 16.
Mention four types of power sharing.
Answer:

1. Power sharing among different organs of government.

2. Power sharing among government at different levels.
3. Power sharing among different social groups.
4. Power sharing among political parties, pressure groups and movements.

Question 17.
What is horizontal distribution of power ?
Answer:
Under horizontal distribution, power is shared among different organs of government, such as legislature,
executive and judiciary.

Question 18.
How power can be shared among governments at different levels ?
Answer:
Under this, there is a general government for the entire country (central government) and governments at the
provincial or regional level (state government).

Question 19.
What are the features of sharing power among governments at different levels ? State any one.
Answer:
 1. Under this power sharing, there is division of power between central and state governments.
2. It is vertical division of power.

Question 20.
Give an example of power sharing among different social groups such as the religious and linguistic groups.
Answer:
Community government in Belgium is a good example of power sharing among different social groups.

Question 21.
Why the system of ‘reserved constituencies’ is adopted in India ?
Answer:
The system of ‘reserved constituencies’ is adopted to give space/representation in the government and
administration to diverse social groups who otherwise would feel alienated from the government.

Question 22.
Give an example of power sharing among different political parties in a democracy.
Answer:
Some time different political parties with different ideologies form an alliance. They contest elections jointly
and after winning in the elections, these parties form a coalition government. The example is present NDA
government.

Short Type questions(2-3) 1. What led to the ethnic tension in Belgium?

Why was it more acute in Brussels?

Answer: The minority French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful. So
the Dutch speaking community, who got the benefit of economic development and
education much later showed the resentment between the Dutch-speaking and the
French-speaking communities during the 1950s and the 1960s. The conflict between
the two communities was more severe in Brussels because the Dutch speaking people
constituted a majority in the country, but a minority in the capital.

2. What is the ethnic composition of Belgium? [CBSE Sept. 2011]

Or
Describe the ethnic composition of Belgium. [CBSE 2012]

Answer: The ethnics composition of Belgium, a small country is very complex. Of the
country’s total population, 59 per cent live in the Flemish region and speak Dutch
language. Another 40 per cent people live in the Wallonia region and speak French.
Remaining 1 per cent of the Belgians speak German. In the capital city, Brussels, about
80 per cent people speak French while 20 per cent are Dutch-speaking.

3. What is the ethnic composition of Sri Lanka?

Answer: Sri Lanka has a diverse population. The Sinhalese community forms the
majority of the population (74%) with Tamils (18%) who are mostly concentrated in the
north and east of the island, forming the largest ethnic minority. Other communities
include the Muslims. Among Tamils, there are two sub-groups. The Tamil natives of the
country are called ‘Sri Lankan Tamils’ (13 %). The Tamils, who were brought as
indentured labourers from India by British colonists to work on estate plantations are
called the ‘Indian Origin Tamils’ (5%). Most of the Sinhala-speaking people are
Buddhists, while most of the Tamils are Hindus or Muslims. There are about 7 per cent
Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhalese.

4. Mention any four steps which were taken by the Sri Lankan government to
achieve majoritarianism.

Answer: (i) In 1956, an Act was passed under which English was replaced as the
country’s official language not by the Sinhala and Tamil but by the Sinhala only.
(ii) The governments followed preferential policies that favoured the Sinhala applicants
for university positions and government jobs.
(iii) A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.
(iv) Denial of citizenship to estate Tamils.

5. What is a Civil War? Explain with context to Sri Lanka.

Answer: (i) It is a violent conflict between the opposing groups within a country, for
example the Sinhalese and the Tamils.
(ii) Due to the violent conflict between both these ethnic groups thousands of people of
both the communities have been killed. Many families were forced to leave the country
as refugees and many more lost their livelihoods.
(iii) The civil war has caused a terrible setback to the social, cultural and economic life of
the country.

6. What is community government? Explain the concept of community

government with context to Belgium.

Answer: (i) A community government is one in which different social groups are given
the power to handle the affairs related to their communities. They are expected to work
jointly for the benefit of the common masses without undermining any one community.
(ii) The ‘community government’ is elected by people belonging to one language
community-Dutch, French and German speaking – no matter where they live.
(iii) This government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language-
related issues.

7. What is the relationship between democracy and power sharing?

Answer: ‘Democracy’ means giving every citizen the right and power to make the
decisions through their elected representatives. Power sharing is dividing power among
various social groups to give them equal representation in the governance. Power
sharing is the essence of democracy where every individual, irrespective of cultural and
language differences feel involved in the political system.

8. How did the Sri Lankan and the Belgium government try to solve the ethnic
problem?
Or
Explain any two important differences between the power sharing model
accepted by Belgium and Sri Lanka.

Answer: (i) The Belgium leaders tried to solve the ethnic problem by respecting the
feelings and interests of different communities and regions, whereas the Sri Lankan
government tried to solve the problem through majoritarianism.
(ii) Belgium leaders established a federal structure under which power was shared
between the Union Government and its other constituent units whereas Sri Lankan
leaders adopted Unitary Government structure.
(iii) The Belgium solution helped in avoiding civic strife whereas the majoritarianism in
Sri Lanka led to the civil war.

9. “Both Belgium and Sri Lanka are democracies but they follow different systems
of power sharing. ” Support the statement by giving three points of difference.

Answer: (i) Type of Government: Sri Lanka continues to be, for all practical purpose, a
unitary system where the national government has all the powers. Tamil leaders want
Sri Lanka to become a federal system under which the regional governments were
given constitutional powers that were no longer dependent on the central ‘government.
Belgium shifted from a unitary to a federal form of government.

(ii) Religion and Government : To accommodate people belonging to different ethnic

groups Belgium formed a ‘community government’ whereas Sri Lankan government
passed a law to protect and promote Buddhism.

(iii) Language and government : In 1956 Sri Lankan government passed an act to
recognize Sinhala as the only official language whereas Belgium government “tried to
protect and foster all the languages spoken by the people.

10. What is power sharing? Explain.

Answer: (i) The concept of providing a permanent share of power in the government
different communities or regions is termed as power sharing.
(ii) Under this the people and the leaders of the nation respect the feelings and
interests of different commodities and regions.
(iii) The principle of power sharing is very important for the unity and growth of
democracy.

11. Explain the principle of federal division of power.

Answer: (i) Under the federal division of power the power is divided among different
levels of government; for example in India the power is shared among the three levels
of governments, i.e., Union government, the state governments and the local
governments.
(ii) This type of system is known as vertical division of power.
(iii) Under this the Constitution clearly lays down the power of each level of government

12. “Power may also be shared among different social groups”. Explain by giving
examples.

Answer: (i) Power may also be shared among different social groups such as the
religious and linguistic groups. ‘Community government’ in Belgium is a good example
of this arrangement.
(ii) In some countries there are constitutional and legal arrangements whereby socially
weaker sections and women are represented in the legislatures and administration. For
example in India we follow the principle of ‘reserved constituencies’ in assemblies and
the parliament of our country. This type of arrangement is meant to give space in the
government and administration to diverse social groups who otherwise would feel
alienated from the’ government.
(iii) This method is used to give minority communities a fair share in power.

1. Power sharing is the true spirit of democracy. Justify this statement.

Answer

Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy:

• A democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, and who have to
live with its effects.

• People have a right to be consulted on how they are to be governed. A legitimate government
is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a stake in the system.

• It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.

2. Describe any three forms of power sharing in modern democracies.

Answer

Three forms of power sharing with examples:

• Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and
judiciary.

• Power can be shared among governments at different levels – a general government for the
entire country and governments at the provincial or regional level.

• Power may also be shared among different social groups such as the religious and linguistic
groups. ‘Community government’ in Belgium is a good example of this arrangement.
3. ‘Both Belgium and Sri Lanka are democracies but they follow different systems of power
sharing’. Support the statement by giving three points of difference.

Answer

• In Belgium, communities have equal share in the government while in Sri Lanka leaders of the
Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by virtue of their majority.

• In Belgium, there is provision of special government called ‘Community government’ to look

after cultural, educational and language-related issues while In Sri Lanka, none of the major
political parties led by the Buddhist Sinhala leaders was sensitive to language and culture of
Tamils.

• In Belgium, there is no discrimination between various religions while In Sri Lanka, Buddhism
is the official religion of the country.

4. Write one prudential and one moral reason for power sharing.

Answer

• Prudential reason for power sharing: Power sharing reduces social conflicts among social
groups with different interests and aspirations. Social conflicts lead to violence and instability.
Power sharing ensures the stability of political order.
• Moral reason for power sharing: Power sharing is the very spirit and essence of democracy.
Democracy involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, and who have to live
with its effects. People have the right to be consulted on how they are to be governed.

Long type questions(4-5) QUESTIONS OF 3/5 MARKS

Answers should he in about 80/100 words.
Question 1.
Describe the geographical and ethnic composition of Belgium.
Answer:
The geographical and ethnic composition of Belgium is given below :
(1) Geographical composition :

1. Belgium is a small country in Europe. It is smaller in area than the State of Haryana in India.
2. It has borders with Netherlands, France and Germany.
3. Its population is little over one crore. It is half of the population of Haryana state.

(2) Ethnic composition :

1. 59 per cent of the population lives in the Flemish region. They speak Dutch language.
2. 40 per cent people live in the Wallonia region. They speak French.
3. Remaining one per cent speak German.
4. Brussels is the capital of Belgium. Here, 80 per cent people speak French and 20 per cent
speak Dutch.
Thus, Belgium is a country of diversities based on languages. Dutch-speaking people are in
majority in the country, but a minority in the capital city of Brussels.

Question 2.
What was the cause of tension between Dutch-speaking and French-speaking communities during 1950s and
1960s ?
Answer:
The minority French-speaking community was relatively rich and powerful. On the .pther hand Dutch-
speaking community got the benefit of economic development and education much later. This was the cause
of tension between two communities during the 1950s and 1960s.

Question 3.
Describe the geographical and ethnic composition of Sri Lanka.
Answer:
The geographical and ethnic composition of Sri Lanka is given below :

Geographical composition :

1. Sri Lanka is an island nation just a few kilometers off the southern coast of Tamil Nadu.
2. Its population is about 2 crore.

Ethnic composition :
 1. The major social groups are the Sinhala-speakers (74 per cent) and Tamil-speakers (18 per
cent). ‘
2. Tamil-speakers are further divided into two groups – Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils.
3. Sri Lankan Tamils are the natives of Sri Lanka. The Indian Tamils’ forefathers migrated from
India as plantation workers during colonial period.
4. Sri Lankan Tamils live in the north and east of the country.
5. Most of the Sinhala-speaking people are Buddhist, while most of the Tamils are Hindus or
Muslims.
6. There are about 7 per cent Christians, who are both Tamil and Sinhala.

Question 4.
Explain the three measures taken by Sri Lanka as per the Act passed in 1956. [CBSE 2016-17]
Or
How was majoritarianism practiced in Sri Lanka ?
Or

What were the reasons for alienation of Sri Lankan Tamils ? What were its effects ?
Or
Which policies of the Sri Lankan government have led to the feeling of alienation among Sri Lankan
Tamils ?
Or
Why Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated ?
Answer:
(1) Sri Lanka emerged as an independent country in 1948. The Sinhala community was majority
community. Their leaders sought to secure dominance over government. Thus the democratically
elected government adopted the following majoritarian measures :

1. In 1956, an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as the only official language thus disregarding
Tamil.
2. The governments followed preferential policies that favoured Sinhala applicants for university
positions and government jobs.
3. A new constitution stipulated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism.

(2) Effects : The above measures gradually increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils.

1. They felt that none of the major political parties led by the Buddhist Sinhala leaders were
sensitive to their language and culture.
2. They felt that the constitution and government policies denied them equal political rights.
3. They also felt that they were being discriminated in getting jobs and other opportunities. Thus
the relations between the Sinhala and Tamil communities strained and a feeling of alienation
grew among the Sri Lankan Tamils.

Question 5.
What were the effects of feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils ?
Answer:
The effects of the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils were as mentioned below :

1. The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an
official language.
2. They demanded regional autonomy.
3. They also demanded equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs.
4. Their demand for regional autonomy was repeatedly denied.
5. By 1980s several political organisations were formed and they demanded an s independent
Tamil Eelam (state) in northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka.
 6. The distrust and alienation turned into widespread conflict between the two communities. It
soon turned into a civil war.
7. In the civil war, thousands of people of both the communities were killed. Many
8. families were forced to leave the country as refugees. Many lost their livelihoods. Thus
although Sri Lanka had excellent record of economic development, education and health,
but the civil war has caused a terrible setback to the social, cultural and economic life of the
country.

Question 6.
What are some of the basic elements of the Belgium model of power sharing ?
Or
Describe the path of accommodation adopted in Belgium. What were its consequences
Answer:
The Belgian leaders recognised the existence of regional differences and cultural diversities. So they
adopted a path of accommodation. Its features were as mentioned below :

1. Between 1970 and 1993, the constitution was amended four times so as to work out an
arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within same country.
2. The constitution prescribes that the Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be equal in the
Central Government.
3. Some special law’s require the support of majority of members from each linguistic group. No
single community not even majority community (Dutch-speaking) can make decisions
unilaterally.
4. The State Governments are not subordinate to the Central Government. Many powers of the
Central Government have been given to State Governments.
5. There is a separate government in Brussels, the capital of Belgium. Both the communities i.e.,
French-speaking and Dutch-speaking, have equal representation in the Brussels government.
The French-speaking people accepted equal representation in Brussels because the Dutch-
speaking community has accepted equal representation in the central government.
6. A third government which is called “community government” is elected by people belonging
to one language community – Dutch, French and German-speaking – no matter
where they live. The community government has power regarding cultural, educational and
language-related issues.The above model is complicated but it has worked so well that there is
no civil strife between the two communities. There is no danger of division of the country on
the linguistic basis.

Question 7.
How the composition of the capital city of Brussels is different from Belgium as a country ?
Answer:
In Belgium, the composition of different communities is as given below :

1. Dutch-speaking — 59 per cent

2. French-speaking — 40 per cent
3. German-speaking — 01 per cent

On the other hand, the composition of Brussels is as follows :

1. French-speaking — 80 per cent .

2. Dutch-speaking — 20 per cent

Thus, Dutch-speaking people are in majority in the country but they are in minority in the capital city of
Brussels. On the other hand, French-speaking people are in minority in the country but they are in majority
in the capital citymf Brussels. This composition of different communities has led to the acceptance of
principle of accommodation in Belgium by them.
Question 8.
What do you learn from the principles followed in Belgium and Sri Lanka i.e., majoritarianism in Sri Lanka
and accommodation in Belgium ?
Answer:
We learn the following lessons from the principles of majoritarianism and accommodation followed in
Sri Lanka and Belgium :

1. In Belgium, the leaders respected the feelings and interests of all communities and were
successful in maintaining the unity of the country. They recognised the existence of regional
differences and cultural diversities. They took various steps such as amendments to the
constitution in order to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together
within the same country. The arrangements such as equal number of ministers of Dutch and
French-speaking people in Brussels and central govt, have worked successfully.
2. On the other hand in Sri Lanka, the Sinhala community tried to secure dominance over
government and adopted a series of majoritarian measure. The result was alienation of Sri
Lankan Tamils and civil war.
Thus it proves that the policy and path of accommodation is better than the path of major
itarianism.

Question 9.
Describe basic principles of democracy about power sharing. [CBSE 2016-17]
Or
Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. [CBSE 2016-17]
Or
Why is power sharing desirable ? [CBSE 2016-17]
Answer:
See Textbook Question 2.

Question 10.
What are the different forms of power sharing in modem democracies ? Explain any two.[CBSE 2016-17]
Answer:
Different forms of power sharing are given below :

(1) Power sharing among different organs of government :

1. The power is shared by three organs of government i.e., legislature, executive and judiciary.
2. Generally, legislature enacts laws, executive executes the laws, makes policies and takes
decisions,
3. Judiciary interprets the law and protects the rights of the people,
4. It is called horizontal distribution of power’because it allows different organs of government
placed at the same level to exercise different powers,
5. Such a separation ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power.
6. Each organ checks the others and a balance of power is maintained.
For example in India, executive i.e., Council of Ministers is responsible to Lok Sabha. The
Council of Ministers must enjoy the support of the majority in the Lok Sabha. If they loose
confidence of the Lok Sabha, they have to resign. Similarly judges are appointed by the
executive, but they check the function of executive or laws made by the legislatures.

(2) Power sharing among governments at different levels :

1. There are governments at the National, State and Local levels.

2. Powers are divided among these governments. For example in India, there is a division of
powers between Center and the States. There are three lists i.e., Union list, State list and
 Concurrent list. The residuary powers which have not been included in the three lists are with
the Central Government,
3. Some powers have been given to local governments under the Panchayati Raj system,
4. Such a system is followed in countries where there federal form of government as in the USA
and Belgium,
5. Such division of powers involving higher and lower levels of government is called vertical
division of power.
6. However, in countries where there is unitary form of government as in the Great Britain, there
is no division of powers. All the powers are vested in the central or national government.

(3) Power sharing among different social groups :

1. Sometimes religious and linguistic groups too share power as is the case in Belgium where
there is a “community government” which is elected by people belonging to one language
community no matter where they live.
2. Such government enjoys power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues,
3. In India, seats are reserved for SCs and STs in assemblies and parliament. Such a system is
adopted to give minority communities a fair share in power so that they are not alienated from
the government as has happened in Sri Lanka.

(4) Power sharing among political parties, pressure groups and movements :

1. When no party gets an absolute majority in legislature, different parties come together and
form a coalition government and share power in a democracy. For example, the present NDA
(National Democrative Alliance) government headed by Shri Narendra Modi is a coalition
government in which power is shared by different political parties that represent different
ideologies and social groups.
2. In addition to this, different pressure groups, interest groups and movements also directly or
indirectly influence the decision making process of the government. Thus there is power
sharing among political parties, pressure groups and movements.

Question 11.
Differentiate between horizontal and vertical power sharing in modem democracies.
Answer:
The differences between horizontal and vertical power sharing in modern democracies is as
mentioned below:

Horizontal Power Sharing Vertical Power Sharing

(1) Power is shared among different organs of (1) Power is shared among governments at different

government such as the legislature, executive and levels i.e., central, state/ provinicial, regional level.

judiciary.
(2) The constitution clearly lays down the powers of

(2) It allows different organs of government placed at different levels of government as has been in Belgium/

the same level to exercise different powers. India. It is federal division of power.
 (3) It ensures that none of the organs exercise

unlimited power. (3) It ensures that each government works according to

the constitutional powers.

(4) Each organ checks the other. This results in a

balance of power among various institutions. It is (4) It is vertical division of power as the powers are

called a system of checks and balances. divided involving higher and lower levels of

government i.e., central, state and local level.

Question 12.
“Both Belgium and Sri Lanka are democracies but they follow different systems of power sharing.” Support
the statement by giving three points of difference.
Answer:
The points of difference between systems of power sharing in Belgium and Sri Lanka are as
mentioned below :

Sri Lanka Belgian

(1) In Sri Lanka the leaders of the Sinhala community The Belgian leaders recognised the

sought to secure dominance over government by virtue existence of regional differences and

of their majority. The elected government adopted a cultural diversities. Between 1970 and 1993

series of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala they amended their constitution four times

supremacy. so as to work out an arrangement that would

enable everyone to live together within the

(2) In 1956 an Act was passed to recognise Sinhala as
same country. Constitution prescribes that
the only official language. The govt, followed
the number of Dutch and French-speaking
preferential policies favouring Sinhala applicants for
ministers shall be equal in the central govt.
university positions and govt. jobs. A new constitution
Many powers of the central government
stipulated that the state shall protect and foster
have been given to the state governments
 which are not subordinate to the central

government. Brussels (capital) has a

separate govt, in which both the

communities have equal representation. In

Buddhism.
Belgium, the “community government” is

elected by people belonging to one language

(3) There is no such community govt, regarding
community Dutch, French and German-
cultural, educational and language related issues.
speaking — no matter where they live. This

(4) In Sri Lanka, there was the feeling of alienation government has the power regarding

among the Sri Lankan Tamils. They felt that the cultural, educational and language related

constitution and the government policies denied them issues.

equal political rights, discriminated against them in In Belgi um there is no feeling of alienation

getting jobs and other opportunities and ignore among any of the communities because the

constitution prescribes that the number of

Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall

be equal in the central government. Many

powers of the central government have been

given to state governments of the two

regions of the country. Brussels has a

separate government in which both the

communities have equal representation.

Question 13.
Describe basic principles o f democracy about power sharing.
Answer:

1. They elect their representatives through direct or indirect election. Those who win and secure
majority in the legislature form government at various levels i.e., national, state or local.
2. In democracy due respect is given to all social groups including minorities. For example in
India, minorities enjoy educational and cultural rights. Reservation has been made for SCs/STs
in Parliament and State Assemblies. Thus, in democracy power is shared at various levels and
among various social groups.
It is based on prudence or on careful calculation of gains and losses.
Competency Based Questions(1) 1.Assertion : Tyranny of majority is
highly desirable.

Reason : It helps in making the political order more stable.

2.Assertion : Belgium and Spain has ‘holding together’ federation.

Reason : A big country divides power between constituent states and the national government.

3.Assertion : Democracies are based on political equality.

Reason : All individuals have equal weight in electing representatives.

4.Assertion: Men and women should be given equal rights.

Reason: Men are superior to women physically and emotionally.

5. Assertion: It is mandatory for every candidate who contests election to file an AFFIDAVIT .

Reason: The Supreme Court passed an order to reduce the influence of money and criminals.

6.Assertion : Power Sharing is good.

Reason : It leads to ethical tension.

7.Assertion: Communalism is based on the idea that religion is the principal basis of social community.

Reason: Caste should be kept away from politics.

8.Assertion: India has evolved a multiparty system.

Reason: It is because the social and geographical diversity in such a large country is not easily absorbed by
two or even three parties

9.Assertion : Democracy transforms people from the status of a subject into that of a citizen.

Reason : Most individuals believe that their vote makes a difference to the way the governments run and to
their own self-interest

10.Assertion : Coalition government is formed during the dearth of coal in the country.

Reason : It helps in overcoming the coal crisis.

11.Assertion : Community government in Belgium is elected by one language community.

Reason : Community government helped in resolving conflict between different linguistic groups.

12.Assertion: India is a secular state.

Reason: Constitution gives freedom to everyone to profess, practice and propagate any religion without
prejudices or any discrimination.
13.Assertion: In a democracy, political parties are a must.

Reason: There will be no election Without political parties.

14.Assertion : Dictatorship is better form of Government as compared to Democracy

Reason : Dictatorships have a slightly higher rate of economic growth.

15.Assertion :Power sharing is good for democracy.

Reason :It leads to ethical tension

16.Assertion : Third-tier of government is local government.

Reason : It made democracy weak.

17.Assertion : In a democracy, everyone has a voice in the shaping of public policies.

Reason : India has a federal system.

18.Assertion : It is very simple to make the changes in the basic structure of the constitution.

Reason : Both the houses have power to amend the constitution independently.

19.Assertion : Non-democratic regimes often turn a blind eye to or suppress internal social differences.

Reason : They accommodate various social divisions.

20.Assertion: India has a parliamentary system of government.

Reason: Indian parliament is bicameral.

21.Assertion: Women face discrimination and disadvantage in India in many ways.

Reason: India is a patriarchal society.

22.Assertion : Hindi is identified as the only official language of India.

Reason : It helped in creating supremacy of Hindi speaking people over others.

24.Assertion : In Belgium, the leaders realized that the unity of the country is possible by respecting the
feelings and interests of different countries.

Reason : Belgium favoured Dutch speaking community.

25.Assertion : India is a federation.

Reason : Power resides with the central authority.

Assertion-Reasoning Answers
Case Based Questions(3-4) The Belgian leaders took a different path.
They recognised the existence of regional differences and cultural
diversities. Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their constitution four
times so as to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live
together within the same country. The arrangement they worked out is
different from any other country and is very innovative. Here are some of the
elements of the Belgian model. Constitution prescribes that the number of
Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be equal in the central
government. Some special laws require the support of majority of members
from each linguistic group. Thus, no single community can make decisions
unilaterally. Many powers of the central government have been given to
state governments of the two regions of the country. The state governments
are not subordinate to the Central Government. Brussels has a separate
government in which both the communities have equal representation. The
French-speaking people accepted equal representation in Brussels because
the Dutchspeaking community has accepted equal representation in the
Central Government. Apart from the Central and the State Government,
there is a third kind of government. This ‘community government’ is elected
by people belonging to one language community – Dutch, French and
German-speaking – no matter where they live. This government has the
power regarding cultural, educational and languagerelated issues. You might
find the Belgian model very complicated. It indeed is very complicated, even
for people living in Belgium. But these arrangements have worked well so
far. They helped to avoid civic strife between the two major communities and
a possible division of the country on linguistic lines. When many countries of
Europe came together to form the European Union, Brussels was chosen as
its headquarters.

Question (i)
When and why was the Belgian Constitution amended by its leaders?

Answer:

From the Paragraph

The Belgian leaders took a different path. They recognised the existence of regional
differences and cultural diversities. Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their
constitution four times so as to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone
to live together within the same country. The arrangement they worked out is different
from any other country and is very innovative.

Between 1970 and 1993 , the Belgian leaders amended the constitution four times so
that everyone lived together in harmony within the same country.
Question (ii)
How is power distributed among governments in Belgium?

Answer:

From the paragraph,

Many powers of the central government have been given to state governments of the
two regions of the country. The state governments are not subordinate to the Central
Government.

 In Belgium, Many powers of the central government are in the hands

of the state government .

 The state government is not subordinate to the Central Government .

ADVERTISEMENT
In this way, power is distributed among the Government in Belgium.

Question (iii)
Which is the third kind of government in Belgium and who elects it?

Answer:

From the paragraph

Apart from the Central and the State Government, there is a third kind of government.
This ‘community government’ is elected by people belonging to one language
community – Dutch, French, and German-speaking – no matter where they live. This
government has the power regarding cultural, educational, and language-related
issues.

 The third kind of government that exists in the Belgium is Community

government .

 The community government is elected by the people belonging to one language

community. This government has the power regarding cultural, educational, and

language issues.
Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate option: Case Study Question 1:

The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an official language,
for regional autonomy and equality of opportunity in securing education and jobs. But their demand for
more autonomy to provinces populated by the Tamils was repeatedly denied. By 1980s several political
organisations were formed demanding an independent Tamil Eelam (state) in northern and eastern parts of
Sri Lanka.

Answer the following MCQs by choosing the most appropriate options:

(i) Why was there dissatisfaction among Sri Lankan Tamils?

(a) The Sri Lankan government had followed the principle of majoritarianism.
(b) The Sri Lankan government did not follow the principle of power sharing.
(c) The government of Sri Lanka gave preference to Sinhalas.
(d) All the above

➤ Show AnswerAnswer: (d)

(ii) What were the steps taken by the government of Sri Lanka to alienate Tamils?
(a) Non-recognition to Tamil language
(b) Preference through Sinhalas in education and jobs
(c) State protection to Buddhism
(d) All the above

➤ Show AnswerAnswer: (d)

(iii) Which areas of Sri Lanka had the majority of Sinhalas?

(a) Southern part
(b) Western part
(c) Both (a) and (b)
(d) None of the above

➤ Show AnswerAnswer: (c)

(iv) What were the main demands of Tamils?

(a) Independence in areas occupied by Tamils
(b) Autonomy in the areas occupied by Tamils
(c) Recognition of Hinduism as the state religion
(d) To drive out Sinhalas from Sri Lanka
➤ Show AnswerAnswer: (b)