Important Questions: Recent Developments in Indian Politics | Political Science Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Very Short Answer Type Questions

• Defeat of the Congress Party: The Congress Party, which had previously dominated, suffered a major loss, reducing its seats from 415 in 1984 to 197.
• Rise of Regional Parties: This election saw an increase in the influence of regional parties, leading to a shift towards coalition governments.

Q2. What does a coalition government mean? Mention any one example of such a government.
Ans: A coalition government is created when several smaller political parties unite to form a majority in the legislature. This often involves setting aside significant differences to work together on a common agenda. For example, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, which came to power in 2004, was a coalition formed by the Congress party along with various regional parties and the Left Front.

Q3. Name the two alliance fronts that formed the government at the center in 1989 and 1996 respectively.
Ans: National Front and  United Front

Q4. Which political party emerged as the single largest party in the 1996 Parliamentary elections?
Ans: The Bharatiya Janata Party emerged as the largest party in the 1996 Parliamentary elections.

Q5. Name any two political parties, which were the components of the Third Front for the Lok Sabha elections in 2009.
Ans:

• Communist Party of India (C.P.I.)
• Communist Party of India - Marxist (C.P.M)
• Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
• Telugu Desam Party (TDP)

Q6. From which year did the era of coalition government at the center begin in India?
Ans: The era of coalition government in India began in 1989.

Q7. Explain the concept of a ‘coalition Government’.
Ans: A coalition government is created when multiple smaller political parties or groups come together to form a majority in the legislature. This occurs by:

• Setting aside their differences.
• Agreeing on a common platform.
• Working collaboratively to govern.

Coalition governments often reflect a diverse range of views and interests, making them a significant aspect of modern politics.

Q8. Identify anyone similarity between the united front Government of 1996 and the National Front Government of 1989.
Ans:  Both the Government of 1989 and 1996 included Janta Dal and Several other regional Parties.

Q9. Name two alliances/fronts that formed the government at the centre in 1989 and 1996 respectively.
Ans: National Front was the coalition that formed the government in 1989. The United Front was the alliance that came to power in 1996.

Q10. Mention any two incidents of violence against minority community which are a threat to democracy.
Ans: Violent incidents threatening democracy against minority communities include:

• Anti-Mandal protests: These protests erupted in response to the implementation of the Mandal Commission's recommendations, leading to significant unrest and violence.
• Godhra incident: This tragic event involved the burning of a train, resulting in widespread communal violence and loss of life.

Q11. What is the difference between a coalition party and coalition in Congress system?
Ans: A coalition party government consists of more than two regional and political parties working together. In contrast, a coalition in the Congress system encourages various factions within the same party, even if they hold different ideologies.

• Coalition party government: Involves multiple parties forming a government.
• Coalition in Congress: Focuses on internal party factions with diverse beliefs.

Q12. Which organisation took up the cause of Bahujans?
Ans: The Backward and Minority Classes Employees Federation (BAMCEF) has played a significant role in advocating for the political rights of the Bahujans, which include:

• Scheduled Castes (SCs)
• Scheduled Tribes (STs)
• Other Backward Classes (OBCs)
• Minorities

BAMCEF has taken strong positions to ensure these groups gain political power and representation.

Q13. What was the status of BSP?
Ans:  The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), founded by Kanshi Ram, gained significant traction in Uttar Pradesh during the 1989 and 1991 elections, primarily supported by Dalit voters. It has since expanded its appeal to other social groups, becoming a major political player.

Q14. When did the phase of coalition politics begin?
Ans: Coalition politics in India began with the elections of 1989. Key developments include:

• National Front in 1989
• United Front in 1996 and 1997
• United Progressive Alliance (UPA) in 2004

This marked a shift towards governments formed with the support of multiple regional parties.

Q15. When were new economic reforms announced?
Ans: New economic reforms were announced in 1991.

Q16. Who was the chairperson of Mandal Commission? State any one recommen¬dation made by him/her.
Ans: Bindeshwari Prasad Mandal was the chairperson of the Mandal Commission, established in 1978. One key recommendation was 27% reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in government jobs and educational institutions to promote social and educational equality.

Q17. State any two major political happenings of 1984 in India.
Ans: Major political happenings of 1984  were:

• The assassination of Indira Gandhi occurred on 31 October 1984, which led to significant political turmoil in India.
• The Lok Sabha elections were held later that year, resulting in a decisive victory for the Congress party, led by Rajiv Gandhi.

Q18. What was  the change in electoral performance of Congress party and BJP from 1984¬2004?
Ans: Between 1984 and 2004, Indian politics shifted from Congress dominance to BJP’s rise.

• Congress lost its majority in 1989, leading to a National Front government.
• After Rajiv Gandhi’s assassination in 1991, Congress formed a government with AIADMK.
• BJP briefly held power in 1996, followed by United Front rule.
• BJP-led NDA gained power in 1998 under Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• In 2004, Congress-led UPA returned with Manmohan Singh as PM.

Q19. When was India’s New Economic Policy launched? Who was its chief architect?
Ans: India’s New Economic Policy was launched in 1991 as a structural adjustment programme. The key figures behind this initiative were:

• Narasimha Rao, the then Prime Minister.
• Dr. Manmohan Singh, the then Finance Minister.

The policy marked a significant shift towards a liberalised and open economy, changing the course of the Indian economy since independence.

Q20. What happened to the state government after demolition of Babri Masjid?
Ans: The BJP state government was dismissed following the demolition of the Babri Masjid.

• Other states governed by the BJP were also placed under President's rule.
• A case was filed against the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh in the Supreme Court.

Q21. What led to the serious debate over secularism?
Ans: The demolition of the disputed mosque at Ayodhya on December 6, 1992, sparked a serious debate over secularism. Key points include:

• Most political parties condemned the demolition, viewing it as a violation of secular principles.
• The incident raised concerns about the use of religious sentiments for electoral gains.
• Both Hindu and Muslim communities sought a fair resolution to the ownership dispute.
• Critics argued that the demolition challenged the foundations of Indian democracy.

Q22. List the four groups to be emerged in 1990s.
Ans:

• UPA (United Progressive Alliance) - Coalition with Congress
• NDA (National Democratic Alliance) - Coalition with BJP
• Left Parties - Left Front parties
• Others - Parties not part of the above coalitions

Short Answer Type Questions

Q23. Write a short note on United Progressive Alliance Government.
Ans: In the 2004 general elections, the ruling BJP faced a surprising defeat, allowing the Congress party to form a coalition government called the United Progressive Alliance (UPA). This coalition was led by Dr. Manmohan Singh and included support from left-wing parties. The UPA introduced a Common Minimum Programme, which outlined six key principles for governance, emphasising a government that is:

• Corporation-free
• Transparent
• Accountable
• Responsible
• Responsive

During the launch of this programme, the Prime Minister pledged to maintain these values. However, he acknowledged some differences within the UPA, particularly regarding women's reservation with the RJD party. Despite challenges, the UPA completed its term, even after the Left parties withdrew support in July 2008 over the Indo-US nuclear deal. In the 2009 elections, the UPA increased its seats significantly, allowing Dr. Singh to serve a second term.

Q24. When and why did a long phase of Coalition politics begin in India?
Ans: In India, the coalition era began in 1989 and has since become a significant aspect of the political landscape. The following factors contributed to this shift:

• The Congress party lost its majority, leading to the need for alliances.
• Various political parties united to form a strong front against Congress.
• A desire for power and positions among parties facilitated coalition formations.
• Conflicts between the Centre and State governments also played a role.

This period marked the decline of Congress dominance, as no single party has secured a clear majority in Lok Sabha elections since 1989 until 2014. The emergence of multiple parties has necessitated collaboration among them to form governments.

Q25. In what way do the coalition governments prove to be more democratic than the one-party governments?
Ans: Coalition governments are generally more democratic than one-party governments for several reasons:

• Representation: Coalition governments represent a wider range of public opinion, ensuring that different communities have a voice in governance.
• Minority Rights: They protect the rights and liberties of minority groups, preventing their marginalisation.
• Cooperation: Various parties work together, fostering a culture of compromise and collaboration.
• Checks on Power: Coalition governments limit the potential for dictatorship that can arise from a single-party rule.

Q26. Explain the impact of coalition government on Indian Politics.
Ans: The impact of coalition government on Indian politics includes:

• The coalition government has led to significant political instability in India.
• Coalition ministries tend to be large, as they must accommodate the interests of various partners.
• There has been increased tension between the central government and the states.
• During this era, relations between coalition ministries and their respective governors have become strained.

Q27. Write a short note on NDA.
Ans: The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) was formed on 15th May 1999 to promote unity among various political parties. Key points include:

• It was initiated by the BJP along with allies such as the DMK and the Indian Lok Dal.
• The alliance aimed to present a common manifesto for the Lok Sabha elections.
• Under the leadership of Atal Behari Vajpayee, the NDA promised a stable, honest, and efficient government.
• In the 13th Lok Sabha elections, the NDA secured 297 seats.
• Vajpayee was elected as the leader, and the NDA government was formed.

The NDA was re-elected in October 1999, with Vajpayee serving as Prime Minister throughout both terms.

Q28. Describe any four major developments in the Indian politics since 1989.
Ans: Since 1989, Indian politics has seen significant developments, leading to a consensus among various political parties. This consensus includes:

• Agreement on new economic policies: Despite some opposition, most political parties support these policies, believing they will enhance the country's prosperity and elevate its status as an economic power globally.
• Acceptance of backward castes' claims: Political parties now recognise the social and political rights of backward castes. Consequently, they support reservations for these groups in education and employment, ensuring they receive a fair share of power.
• Role of state-level parties: The lines between state and national parties are blurring. State-level parties have gained significant influence in national governance, playing a crucial role in shaping politics over the past two decades.
• Focus on pragmatism over ideology: Coalition politics has shifted the emphasis from ideological differences to practical power-sharing arrangements. 

These developments mark a transformative period in Indian politics, moving towards a more competitive landscape while maintaining a degree of consensus among major political actors.

Q29. When and why did a long phase of coalition politics begin in India?
Ans: The era of coalition politics in India began after the 1989 elections. Key points include:

• The Congress party was the largest in the Lok Sabha but lacked a clear majority.
• Consequently, Congress opted to sit in the opposition.
• The National Front, an alliance of Janata Dal and regional parties, formed a government.
• This coalition received outside support from the BJP and the Left Front, who did not join the government.
• Since 1989, India has seen multiple coalition governments, often with short-lived Prime Ministers.

This shift marked the decline of Congress dominance and the rise of regional parties in Indian politics.

Q30. “Coalition government helps in consensus building”. Do you agree with the statement? Give arguments in support of your answer.
Ans: Coalition government helps in consensus building. I agree with this statement for several reasons:

• Shift in Focus: Coalition politics has moved the emphasis from ideological differences to power sharing arrangements.
• Support for Economic Policies: Most political parties now agree on new economic policies aimed at achieving national prosperity and enhancing India's global economic status.
• Recognition of Backward Classes: There is a consensus on the need to support the reservation of seats for backward classes in education and employment.
• Inclusion of Regional Parties: The role of state-level parties has been acknowledged, allowing for broader representation in governance.
• Pragmatic Alliances: Even when parties disagree on certain ideologies, such as the NDA's differing views on the BJP's Hindutva, they have still formed effective coalitions.

These elements indicate that coalition governments can foster a collaborative political environment, essential for addressing diverse societal needs.

Q31. Write a note on Hindu-Muslim Riots in Gujarat.
Ans: The Anti-Muslim Riots occurred in Gujarat in 2002, starting with a fire on a train in Godhra. This train was carrying karsevaks returning from Ayodhya, and Muslims were suspected of causing the fire. The aftermath included:

• Widespread violence against Muslims, resulting in the deaths of nearly 1,100 people, mostly Muslims.
• Criticism from the Human Rights Commission regarding the Gujarat government's failure to control the violence.
• Provision of relief to the victims by various organisations.

The riots highlighted how government machinery can be influenced by passion and the dangers of using religious sentiments for political gain.

Q32: Read the passage given below carefully and answer the questions:
Thus, with the elections of 1989, a long phase of coalition politics began in India. Since then, there have been nine governments at the Centre, all of which have either been coalition governments or minority governments supported by other parties, which did not join the government. In this new phase, any government could be formed only with the participation or support of many regional parties. This applied to the National Front in 1989, the United Front in 1996 and 1997, the NDA in 1997, BJP-led coalition in 1998, NDA in 1999 and the UPA in 2004.
1. What is meant by coalition politics?
2. Name any two regional political parties which were a part of coalition government.
3. Write the full form of NDA.
4. What does a minority government mean?
Ans:
1. Coalition politics does not have maj ority even to a single party but parties may enter into an alliance or get support of other parties to form government.
2. NDA and United front.
3. National Democratic Alliance.
4. Minority governments are supported by other parties which did not join the government.

Q33: Read the passage given below carefully and answer the questions:
Infact the BSP, under Kanshi Ram’s leadership was envisaged as an organisation based on pragmatic politics. It derived confidence from the fact that the Bahujans (SC, ST, OBC and religious minorities) constituted the majority of the population, and were a formidable political force on the strength of their numbers.
1. Which organisation was formed by Kanshi Ram?
2. Name any two religious minorities.
3. Why are Bahujans considered a formidable political forces?
Ans:
1. BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party)
2. Muslims and Christians
3. Because Bahujans constituted the majority of population, hence they were formidable political force on strength of their numbers.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q34. Analyze any three developments towards the end of the 1980s that were to make a long-lasting impact on the politics of India.
Ans: The following developments towards the end of the 1980s significantly impacted Indian politics:

Q35. Describe any three elements of growing consensus among most of the political parties of India after 1989.
Ans: Three elements of growing consensus among most of the political parties of India after 1989 were as follows:

Q36. In 2014 elections, people have voted for a stable government at the Centre. Do you think that the era of coalition has ended? Support your answer with suitable arguments.
Ans: Since Independence, the Congress party dominated Indian politics until 1977, with leaders like Nehru, Shastri, and Indira Gandhi. The political landscape changed dramatically after the Emergency in 1975, which united opposition leaders to form the Janata Party. This marked the beginning of coalition politics in India. From 1989 onwards, India experienced a prolonged phase of coalition governments, with nine different administrations, including:

• National Front (1989)
• United Front (1996-1997)
• NDA (1997-1999)
• UPA (2004-2009)
• BJP-led NDA (2014 onwards)

In the 2014 elections, the BJP won 284 seats, allowing it to form a government independently for the first time in 30 years. This shift indicated a public preference for a stable, single-party government, as many voters had grown weary of the instability and indecision often associated with coalition politics. The 2014 elections were pivotal, leading to the rapid decision-making of the Narendra Modi government in areas like social policy, foreign relations, and economic reform. The BJP further solidified its position by winning 303 seats in the 2019 elections. Despite this, the relevance of coalition politics remains significant. A consensus has emerged among various parties on key issues, indicating a shift in the political landscape:

• Agreement on new economic policies
• Recognition of the need for collaboration
• Continued importance of regional parties

The decline of the Congress party has led to a new era in Indian politics, where coalition governments were once the norm. However, the recent successes of the BJP suggest a potential return to single-party governance, while still acknowledging the complexities of the current political environment.

Q37. What was Mandal Commission? Did it try to solve the problems of other Backward classes? State any two arguments in support of your answer?
Ans: The Mandal Commission was established in 1978, chaired by Bindeshwari Prasad Mandal. Its purpose was to assess the educational and social backwardness of various groups in Indian society and to recommend methods for identifying these backward classes. The Commission presented its recommendations in 1980, advising that:

• Backward classes should include backward castes, as many castes beyond Scheduled Castes were also considered low in the caste hierarchy.
• 27% of seats in educational institutions and government jobs should be reserved for these groups.
• Land reforms were suggested to enhance the conditions of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).

In 1990, the Indian government accepted these recommendations, leading to:

• 27% job reservations in central and state government positions.
• The launch of various welfare schemes, such as the Swarnima National Backward Classes Finance and Development Corporation.

Q38: Describe any three major developments that left a long-lasting impact on the politics of India after the death of Rajiv Gandhi.
Ans : The assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in May 1991 led to significant political changes in India. Some of the major developments that left a lasting impact are:

Q39. Study the picture given below and answer the questions that follow:

1. What does the cartoon represent?
2. Describe the role of such government in Indian Democratic set up.
3. What does this statement “Support the government from outside” mean?
Ans:
1. A puppet government showing example of coalition government.
2. It plays negative and positive role both. In a negative way, it provides unstable form of government. In a positive way, it provides opportunities to regional parties also in forming ruling alliances.
3. No direct participation and position in government but support in the formation of government.

Q40. Study the picture given below and answer the questions that follow:

1. What does the picture indicate?
2. Which party is being referred to as one party dominance?
3. Identify female character in the cartoon.
Ans:
1. It depicts change from one party dominance to a multi-party alliance system.
2. Congress.
3. Mrs. Indira Gandhi.