The Crisis of Democratic Order Class 12 Question Answer Guide

Understanding the Crisis of Democratic Order

The crisis of democratic order refers to periods when democratic institutions and processes face severe challenges, threatening the stability and functioning of democracy. In Class 12 Political Science, this concept focuses on how democracies can experience breakdowns due to political conflicts, social unrest, or misuse of power.

Key features include:

• Breakdown of constitutional norms
• Rise of authoritarian tendencies
• Suppression of dissent
• Political instability and loss of public trust

Understanding this crisis helps students analyse real-world examples and the importance of democratic safeguards.

Causes of the Crisis in Democratic Order

Several factors contribute to the crisis of democratic order. These causes are important for Class 12 students to remember and explain in exams:

• Political Conflicts: Rivalry between political parties or leaders can destabilize governance.
• Social Movements: Sometimes, protests and movements challenge state authority, leading to unrest.
• Emergency Situations: Declaring emergency powers can suspend democratic rights.
• Weak Institutions: When institutions like the judiciary or election commissions fail, democracy weakens.
• Corruption and Misgovernance: Loss of faith in government due to corruption fuels crisis.

Recognising these causes helps in understanding how democracies can be protected.

The Emergency of 1975: A Key Example

The Emergency declared in India from 1975 to 1977 is a classic example of the crisis of democratic order:

• Background: Political instability and protests led Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to impose Emergency.
• Effects: Fundamental rights were suspended, press censorship was imposed, and opposition leaders were jailed.
• Outcome: Democracy was restored after 1977 elections, but the episode highlighted vulnerabilities in democratic systems.

This example is crucial for Class 12 exams and helps illustrate how democracy can be threatened from within.

Role of Institutions in Safeguarding Democracy

Institutions play a vital role in preventing or resolving crises in democratic order. Key institutions include:

• Judiciary: Protects constitutional rights and checks executive power.
• Election Commission: Ensures free and fair elections.
• Parliament: Represents people’s voice and debates policies.
• Media: Acts as a watchdog by exposing corruption and abuses.

Strong institutions help maintain democratic order and prevent abuse of power.

Social Movements and Their Impact on Democracy

Social movements can both challenge and strengthen democracy. In the crisis of democratic order, movements may:

• Demand rights and justice, highlighting government failures.
• Lead to unrest if suppressed, escalating the crisis.
• Pressure governments to reform and be more accountable.

Examples include farmers’ protests, civil rights movements, and anti-corruption campaigns. Class 12 students should note that while social movements may cause short-term instability, they often contribute to long-term democratic health by promoting participation and accountability.

How to Answer The Crisis of Democratic Order Class 12 Questions Effectively

To score well in exams, students should:

• Understand key terms and definitions clearly.
• Use examples like the Emergency to support answers.
• Explain causes and effects logically.
• Include the role of institutions and social movements.
• Practice writing concise answers with bullet points where suitable.

Worked Example:

Question: Explain two causes of the crisis of democratic order.

Answer:

• Political conflicts between parties can lead to instability.
• Weak institutions fail to check misuse of power, causing democratic breakdown.

This approach ensures clarity and completeness.