Chapter 10 - polity

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary resistance against the British during the independence movement, according to Neha?

Opposition to colonialism as a principle (correct)

Desire for a parliamentary government

Opposition to British rule

Need for socio-economic rights

Which aspect of the Indian Constitution is criticized for not being sufficiently addressed?

Political representation

Civic responsibilities

Educational rights

Gender justice (correct)

Why might certain socio-economic rights be placed in the Directive Principles rather than Fundamental Rights?

To emphasize their immediacy over rights

To prioritize civil liberties

To highlight economic growth over individual rights

To make them less enforceable (correct)

What aspect of political structure does Jayesh challenge when discussing the adoption of the British government's approach?

The appropriateness of the adopted government system Signup and view all the answers

What suggestion does the dialogue imply regarding modernizing the Indian Constitution?

Focus on gender equality provisions Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of neglecting the underlying principles of the Constitution when practices are threatened?

It can be harmful to current constitutional practice. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the political philosophy of the Constitution?

Liberal, democratic, egalitarian, secular, and federal. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it challenging to categorize the political philosophy of the Constitution into a single word?

It encompasses multiple values that resist a singular label. Signup and view all the answers

What role does democracy play in the context of the Constitution, as indicated in the content?

It functions as the 'Umpire', guiding democratic practices. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Constitution relate to historically disadvantaged groups?

It is sensitive to their needs and rights. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes one of the commitments of the Constitution?

To promote freedom, equality, social justice, and national unity. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does the philosophical complexity of the Constitution pose to ordinary citizens?

It obscures their ability to grasp constitutional principles. Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of revisiting the Constituent Assembly debates and colonial era on understanding constitutional practice?

It provides historical context that can enhance understanding. Signup and view all the answers

What is considered a significant achievement in Indian nationalism regarding governance?

The commitment to universal franchise Signup and view all the answers

In which document was the idea of every citizen having the right to participate in governance first officially proposed?

The Constitution of India Bill (1895) Signup and view all the answers

What does the principle of 'one man one vote' signify in the context of Indian democracy?

Each vote carries the same weight regardless of status Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups experienced a delayed recognition of voting rights compared to Indian citizens?

Women and the working class in Western democracies Signup and view all the answers

What was the vision of the Assembly regarding democratic rule based on adult suffrage?

To enhance societal well-being Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the document, what age was established for voting eligibility?

Twenty-one years Signup and view all the answers

What does the author imply about the traditional hierarchies in India?

They are firmly established and resistant to change Signup and view all the answers

How was the idea of democratic self-government perceived among India's elite?

As a natural progression of nationalism Signup and view all the answers

What sentiment was expressed in Alladi Krishnaswami Ayyar's statement regarding adult franchise?

Optimism about democratic success Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the evolution of voting rights in India compared to other countries?

India's voting rights were established earlier than in many Western democracies Signup and view all the answers

What underlying value is represented by the law that allows both daughters and sons to share in family property?

Equality Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best explains why democratic countries need a constitution?

To protect minorities from majority rule. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant achievement mentioned regarding the Constitution since its drafting?

Maintaining the philosophical vision of equality, liberty, and fraternity. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cannot be used to describe the role of a constitution in a democracy?

Ensuring unrestricted government power. Signup and view all the answers

Which position is argued by those who believe that Constituent Assembly debates are relevant today?

The constitution addresses issues still prevalent today. Signup and view all the answers

What concern is raised regarding common people's understanding of Constituent Assembly debates?

They are often overwhelmed by life pressures that hinder understanding. Signup and view all the answers

What fundamental vision does the Constitution embody that continues to be a shared goal among citizens?

Equality, liberty, and fraternity. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about political conflict regarding the Constitution is true?

Disagreements have persisted between the courts and governments. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the Constitution is highlighted as a major problem in the political landscape?

Bitter political battles and differing interpretations. Signup and view all the answers

What role do sales tax slabs on consumer items play in the context of constitutional values?

Reflecting economic inequality concerns. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary objective of the Indian Constitution regarding national and regional identities?

To maintain a balance between national and regional identities. Signup and view all the answers

What was the reason for rejecting separate electorates in the Indian Constitution?

They could endanger healthy national life. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following aspects does NOT reflect the substantive achievements of the Indian Constitution?

Promoting a single religious identity. Signup and view all the answers

According to Sardar Patel, what is the ideal vision for community in India?

Forgetting divisions of majority and minority. Signup and view all the answers

What core feature reflects the Indian Constitution's faith in political deliberation?

The debates aimed to be as inclusive as possible. Signup and view all the answers

Which concept is emphasized by Dr. Ambedkar in relation to the Indian Constitution?

True fraternity among individuals. Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of identity does the Indian Constitution prioritize under certain conditions?

Common national identity. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of the Indian Constitution, what is considered a procedural achievement?

Facilitating a platform for diverse opinions. Signup and view all the answers

How does the Indian Constitution reconcile regional identities with national unity?

By recognizing and incorporating regional identities within national identity. Signup and view all the answers

What was the primary intention behind the Constitution's approach to identity?

To foster a single homogenous community. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Political Philosophy of the Indian Constitution

It is difficult to define the philosophy of the Indian Constitution with a single label, it is a complex blend of liberal, democratic, egalitarian, secular, and federal principles.
It is committed to freedom, equality, social justice, and national unity.
It values diverse identities and aims to build a common national identity without erasing regional or religious differences.
It emphasizes the importance of political deliberation and inclusivity.
The Constituent Assembly debates highlight the desire for a constitution that reflects the needs and aspirations of all Indians.

Universal suffrage

Universal franchise is a core value of the Indian Constitution.
This commitment to adult suffrage, particularly when women and the working class in Western democracies were still fighting for this right, is commendable.
The idea of a nation based on democratic self-government was strongly linked to the idea of universal franchise.

Procedural Achievements

The Constitution reflects a faith in political deliberation.
The Constituent Assembly debates demonstrate the makers' intention to be as inclusive as possible.
The Constitution's value comes from the shared vision of its philosophy which continues to shape public discourse, even though disagreements and challenges emerge.

The Significance of the Constituent Assembly Debates

The Constituent Assembly debates are relevant today because they provide insights into the reasoning behind the constitution's framework and values.
The debates offer a platform for understanding the challenges and issues faced by the founding fathers and their approach to creating a constitution for independent India.

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Description

Explore the intricate political philosophy underlying the Indian Constitution, which harmonizes liberal, democratic, and secular principles. This quiz delves into themes of universal suffrage, social justice, and the debates of the Constituent Assembly, reflecting the diverse aspirations of all Indians.