Elections and Democratic Institutions: Class 9 Study Guide
Elections let citizens choose representatives. Three branches of government share the work.
India holds elections to choose members of the Lok Sabha and state assemblies, usually every five years. The country is divided into constituencies, each choosing one representative. Every citizen aged 18 or more has the right to vote, which is called universal adult franchise. The Election Commission runs elections independently and uses a voters' list and electronic voting machines.
Fair elections need free choice of candidates, a fair chance to campaign, secret voting and honest counting.
Three branches of government
| Branch | Who | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Legislature | Parliament: Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha | Makes laws and controls the government |
| Executive | President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers | Carries out laws and runs the government |
| Judiciary | Supreme Court, High Courts and lower courts | Interprets laws and settles disputes |
How a law is made
A bill is introduced in Parliament, discussed, passed by both houses and sent to the President for assent. Then it becomes law. The Prime Minister leads the party or coalition that has a majority in the Lok Sabha. The courts can strike down a law that goes against the Constitution.
By a minister or a member.
Majority needed.
It becomes law.
Courts can review it.
Why do elections matter?
Elections give citizens a regular chance to reward good work and replace those who do not deliver. Voters should find out about candidates, avoid taking money or gifts for votes and use their vote freely.
Worked examples and common mistakes
Example: Who runs elections in India? The Election Commission. Example: What is a constituency? An area that elects one representative. Common mistakes: mixing up the President (head of state) and the Prime Minister (head of government), and thinking that the courts make laws. They interpret them.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. 2. It interprets the law and settles disputes. 3. Every adult citizen has one vote.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Citizens aged 18 or more can vote.
- Constituencies each elect one representative.
- The Election Commission runs elections.
- The legislature, executive and judiciary have different roles.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Name the two houses of Parliament.
- What does the judiciary do?
- What is universal adult franchise?