Elections and Campaigns – Long Answer Questions (CBSE Class 10 Political Science)
Medium Level (Application & Explanation)
Q1. Explain why elections are essential in a democracy. Use suitable examples from local and national levels.
- Elections allow citizens to choose their representatives and the government.
- They give people a voice in how the country is run.
- Voters can select leaders who support policies they prefer.
- At the local level, elected leaders decide on community projects and funding.
- At the national level, leaders shape foreign policy and national laws.
- Thus, elections make the government accountable and reflect the will of the people.
Q2. Describe the main steps in the polling process, from arriving at the booth to casting the vote.
- On polling day, voters go to the polling booth listed for them.
- Officials verify identity and check the name on the voters’ list.
- The voter’s finger is marked after verification.
- The voter then enters a private compartment to choose a candidate.
- Today, the vote is cast by pressing a button on an Electronic Voting Machine (EVM).
- Agents of candidates observe the process to keep it free and fair.
Q3. What happens during an election campaign, and why are slogans used? Explain with examples.
- An election campaign is when parties and candidates try to win voters.
- It usually runs for about two weeks before polling.
- Candidates meet people, hold meetings, and share their views.
- Slogans help focus public attention on key issues.
- For example, “Garibi Hatao” aimed to
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meaning of word here
- “Save Democracy” in 1977 urged people to protect freedom and rights.
Q4. Explain the key regulations that ensure fairness in election campaigns.
- Campaigns cannot use bribery or threats to influence voters.
- Parties cannot make appeals based on religion or caste.
- Candidates cannot use government resources for personal campaigning.
- There are spending limits for each seat to maintain equality.
- For Lok Sabha, the limit is ₹25 lakh per constituency.
- For Assembly, the limit is ₹10 lakh per constituency.
Q5. How are votes counted, and how is transparency maintained during counting?
- After polling, EVMs are sealed and safely kept.
- Counting happens on a set day in secure counting centers.
- Agents of all candidates are present during counting.
- This ensures the process is transparent and fair.
- Results are usually declared within a few hours after counting.
- The media reports winners and the final results for all constituencies.
High Complexity (Analysis & Scenario-Based)
Q6. A candidate promises free education if elected but shows no funding plan. Analyse the ethical and practical issues.
- Such a promise may be a populist appeal without feasibility.
- Voters should ask for clear funding sources and implementation steps.
- Without proof, it can be misleading and reduce public trust.
- It may distract from realistic and sustainable policies.
- Ethical campaigns should give evidence and cost details.
- Voters should compare policies, not just promises.
Q7. During a campaign, a candidate uses government vehicles to reach voters. Evaluate why this is a violation and what should happen.
- Using government resources for campaigns is prohibited.
- It gives an unfair advantage over other candidates.
- It misuses public money meant for official work.
- Voters should question such behaviour and report it.
- The Election Commission can take action for violations.
- The candidate’s election may be challenged in court if rules are broken.
Q8. A party uses slogans that target a religious group. Analyse how this affects democracy and what the law says.
- Appeals based on religion or caste are not allowed in campaigns.
- Such slogans can harm social harmony and create division.
- They distract from policy and development issues.
- The Election Commission should stop such appeals immediately.
- Voters should reject hate-based messages and choose issues-based politics.
- Violations can lead to legal action and rejection of the election.
Q9. After a party wins, there are rumours of bribing voters. What steps can be taken, and what outcomes are possible?
- People should collect evidence like messages, videos, or witness accounts.
- A formal complaint should be made to the Election Commission.
- The matter can also be taken to court for review.
- If proven, the election can be set aside or re-run in that area.
- Those involved may face penalties under election laws.
- This protects fairness and deters future misconduct.
Q10. An independent candidate uses social media to engage youth and share a clear vision. Analyse why this can be effective and its limits.
- Social media helps reach young voters who are active online.
- It allows direct communication and quick sharing of ideas.
- It is low-cost, which helps independent candidates compete.
- It works best when the message is clear, positive, and issue-based.
- However, it must still follow election regulations and avoid misinformation.
- Offline outreach and ground support are also needed to win votes.