What is The Crisis of Democratic Order Class 12: Complete Guide

Understanding The Crisis of Democratic Order in India

The Crisis of Democratic Order refers to a turbulent phase in Indian politics during the late 1960s and 1970s when the democratic system faced significant challenges. This period saw political instability, social unrest, and weakening of democratic institutions. It is a crucial topic in the Class 12 NCERT Political Science syllabus under the chapter "The Crisis of Democratic Order".

Key features of this crisis include:

• Frequent changes in government and leadership at both central and state levels.
• Rise of social and political movements demanding rights and justice.
• Increasing conflicts between different political parties and ideologies.

This crisis tested the resilience of Indian democracy and the ability of its institutions to manage dissent and maintain order.

Main Causes Behind The Crisis of Democratic Order

Several factors contributed to the Crisis of Democratic Order in India:

1. Political Instability: Frequent splits in the ruling Congress party and weak coalition governments created uncertainty.

2. Economic Challenges: Inflation, unemployment, and food shortages led to public dissatisfaction.

3. Social Unrest: Movements by farmers, workers, and marginalized groups demanded social justice and better rights.

4. Rise of Regional Parties: Regional demands and identity politics challenged the dominance of national parties.

5. Law and Order Problems: Increasing violence and protests strained the state's capacity to maintain peace.

These causes combined to create a volatile political environment, making governance difficult.

Key Events That Marked The Crisis of Democratic Order

Several important events define the Crisis of Democratic Order:

• Split in the Congress Party (1969): The party divided into Congress (O) and Congress (R), weakening its hold on power.

• Rise of Opposition Movements: Groups like the Naxalites and various regional parties gained momentum.

• The Emergency (1975-1977): Declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it suspended civil liberties and democratic processes.

• Post-Emergency Elections (1977): The Janata Party defeated Congress, marking the first non-Congress government at the centre.

These events highlight the crisis’s impact on Indian democracy and its eventual recovery.

Impact of The Crisis on Indian Democracy

The Crisis of Democratic Order had both negative and positive effects:

• Negative Impacts:
• Suspension of democratic rights during the Emergency.
• Erosion of trust in political institutions.
• Increased political polarization.

• Positive Outcomes:
• Strengthening of democratic resilience after the Emergency.
• Rise of alternative political parties and greater political pluralism.
• Greater awareness and participation among citizens.

This period taught valuable lessons about protecting democracy and respecting constitutional rights.

Comparison: Democratic Stability Before and During the Crisis

The following table compares key aspects of Indian democracy before and during the Crisis of Democratic Order:

This comparison helps understand why the crisis was a turning point in Indian democracy.

How The Crisis of Democratic Order is Relevant for Class 12 Students

For Class 12 students studying Political Science, understanding The Crisis of Democratic Order is essential because:

• It explains the challenges faced by Indian democracy after independence.
• It highlights the importance of democratic institutions and civil rights.
• It connects historical events with current political realities.
• It is a frequent topic in CBSE exams and helps develop critical thinking about governance.

Students should focus on key causes, events like the Emergency, and the crisis’s impact to score well.