Elections Class 9 Notes SST Chapter 7

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Class 9 Elections Notes

Class 9 SST Chapter 7 Elections Notes

Importance of Elections and Electoral Systems

Election
An election is a process through which we exercise the right to vote and fulfil our responsibility as citizens.

1. Elections are a crucial feature of democracy.
2. Most of the countries in the world choose their leaders through elections. The elected leaders are the representatives of the citizens and rule on their behalf.
3. Elections ensure accountability, participation, and legitimacy of government.
4. India is recognised as the world’s largest democracy and conducts regular elections at three levels:
   

Types of Elections
Direct Elections: Elections in which citizens vote directly to choose their representatives or leaders.

Indirect Elections: Elections in which citizens vote for representatives who then choose/elect the leaders.

Importance of Elections in a Democracy
Democracy is a governance system where the will of the citizens prevails; therefore, elections are the best and easiest way to understand the will of the general public. Through elections, citizens choose who will rule them and make laws for them. Citizens who cast their vote directly influence the decision-making process.

In India, members of the Lok Sabha at the central level, members of the Vidhan Sabha (Legislative Assembly) at the state level, and members of local bodies (like Panchayats, municipal corporations, etc.) are elected through direct elections every five years. In contrast the President, Vice-President and members of the Rajya Sabha are elected through indirect elections.

Class 9 SST Chapter 7 Notes – Elections Notes Class 9

Why elections are important?
Representation of the People: Elections allow citizens to choose their representatives who speak on their behalf for their interests in legislative bodies and serve the general public.

Accountability’ of the Government: The elected leaders can be replaced by the citizens in the next elections if* they fail to perform well in their tenure, which makes leaders more responsible for their actions.

Peaceful Transfer of Power: Elections ensure a change in leadership happens peacefully and not through violence or force. It also ensures a smooth acceptance of the winning representative by all.

Political Participation: Every eligible citizen who is eligible to vote gets a chance to actively participate in the political process through voting.

Legitimacy of a Government: A government elected by the people itself gains public trust and legitimate authority to govern.

Scale of Elections in India
India has the largest number of registered voters in the world over 900 million.
Elections are held regularly at the national, state, and local levels.

This regular and large-scale participation reflects the strength and stability of Indian democracy, and is often compared to the combined electorate of several large countries.

NOTA: The Right to Reject

1. NOTA (None of the Above) gives voters the option to reject all contesting candidates without choosing any of them.
2. It was introduced in 2013 following a direction from the Supreme Court of India.
3. It allows voters to express dissatisfaction if they do not support any candidate, while still participating in the voting process.
4. Even if NOTA receives the highest number of votes in a constituency, the candidate with the most valid votes still wins the election.
5. NOTA strengthens voter choice and promotes cleaner politics by signalling voter dissatisfaction to political parties.

Electoral Systems
An electoral system refers to the set of rules or methods used to translate votes into political representation to determine the final results.

Three Major Electoral Systems

Electoral System	Description	Example
First-Past-The- Post System (FPTP)	It is the simplest electoral system, in which the candidate with the highest number of votes is declared the winner.	India, UK
Proportional Representation (PR)	This system reflects the accurate preference of voters by allocating seats according to vote share each party receives.	Netherlands, Israel
Mixed Electoral System (also known as Mixed-Member Proportional Representation (MMPR))	This system is a combination of both – FPTP and PR. Some seats are filled through FPTP and the remaining through PR.	Germany

Proportional Representation in India—Single Transferable Vote (STV)
While India primarily uses the FPTP system for direct elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, it follows the Proportional Representation system through the Single Transferable Vote (STV) method for certain indirect elections.

STV is used in India for:

• Election of members to the Rajya Sabha (by members of State Legislative Assemblies).
• Election of the President and Vice-President of India.

How STV works:

1. Voters rank candidates in order of preference — first preference, second preference, and so on.
2. To be elected, a candidate must secure a fixed number of votes called a quota.
3. If a candidate receives more votes than the quota, the surplus votes are transferred to other candidates based on the next preferences.
4. If a candidate receives very few votes, they are eliminated and their votes are transferred according to voters’ next preferences.

This method reduces the wastage of votes and ensures that representation more closely reflects the strength of political groups.

Electoral Process in India

Elections in India are held in every five years in the,Lok Sabha, Vidhan Sabha (Assembly), Municipalities and Gram Panchayats.

These elections are conducted in a free and fair manner, ensured by a structured and transparent electoral process.
The Election Commission of India (ECI) organises and supervises the entire elections process.

The country is divided into different areas for elections. These areas are known as constituencies, where voters elect their representatives.

An electoral roll (voters’ list) is prepared mentioning the eligible voter’s names.
Enumerators are appointed officials who collect and verify voter information during the preparation of electoral rolls.

The Delimitation Commission looks after redrawing constituency boundaries to maintain equal representation.
Elections in India are governed mainly by the Representation of the People Acts, 1950 and 1951.

1. Constituency
A constituency is a geographical territory marked for elections and people living in an area elect one representative.

Purpose:
Ensuring equal representation of people from different regions.

2. Electoral Roll
Electoral Roll, also known as Voters List is an official list of people eligible to vote in an election. This list is prepared much before the elections and circulated widely. It’s the responsibility of the Election Commission of India to update this list from time to time.

1. Only those whose names appear in the electoral roll can cast their vote.
2. A person must be an Indian citizen, 18 years of age to be registered as a voter.

The ECI also conducts Special Intensive Revision (SIR), which involves updating, verifying, and correcting the electoral rolls. Through SIR, it ensures that no eligible citizen is left out and no ineligible person is included in the electoral roll. This exercise ensures the addition of all voters, especially the young voters who have just turned 18 and may be left out due to a lack of awareness or any other reason.

The SIR also deletes the names of the voters on the basis of death of the voter, change of residence, duplicate’ enrolment, and being permanently untraceable. The ECI also gives time to raise claims or objections against the revised electoral roll and settles the claims and objections before publishing the final electoral roll.

3. Enumerators
They are government officials who are responsible for:

1. Collecting voter information
2. Verifying personal details
3. Updating electoral rolls

Their work is to ensure that the voters’ list includes all eligible voters.

4. Delimitation Commission
Delimitation is the process of fixing or redrawing the boundaries of electoral constituencies so that each constituency represents approximately the same population. This upholds the democratic principle of “one vote, one value.”

Delimitation applies to:

1. Lok Sabha constituencies
2. State Legislative Assembly constituencies
3. Reserved constituencies for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST)

Delimitation Commission — Composition
The task of delimitation is carried out by an independent statutory body called the Delimitation Commission, which is:

1. Appointed by the President of India.
2. An independent body, not influenced by the government.
3. Usually composed of a retired judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court as Chairperson, the Chief Election Commissioner or an Election Commissioner, and State Election Commissioners (for state-level delimitation).
4. Constituted after each Census to reflect updated population data.

History of Delimitation in India
Article 82 of the Constitution of India mandates the establishment of a Delimitation Commission. Delimitation Commissions have been set up four times in India — in 1952; 1963, 1973, and 2002, under different Delimitation Acts.

Legal Status of Decisions
The decisions of the Delimitation Commission are final and binding. They have the force of law and cannot be challenged in any court. This ensures that delimitation remains free from political interference and legal delays.

Objectives of Delimitation
Ensuring equal representation: Ensures each constitu-ency has roughly the same population, so every repre-sentative speaks for a similar number of people

Reflecting population changes: Adjusts boundaries to account for migration, urbanisation, and population growth

Upholding “one vote, one value”: Maintains political equality by preventing any citizen’s vote from being worth more or less than another’s

Fair reservation: Determines which constituencies should be reserved for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes based on their population in different regions

5. Election Commission of India (ECI)
From announcing the dates of elections to declaring the final results, the Election Commission of India looks after the end-to-end process of elections, making it an independent constitutional body. The President of India appoints Chief Election Commissioner and the Election Commissioners.

Established on 25 January 1950. The Election Commission of India plays a crucial role in safeguarding the elections in democratic India. It conducts elections to the Lok Sabha, the Rajya Sabha, the Vidhan Sabha, the Vidhan Parishad, the President, and the Vice President of India. The Election Commission of India is mentioned in Articles 324 to 329 of the Constitution of India.

These articles deal with the powers, functions, and responsibilities of conducting free and fair elections in India.

Composition of the Election Commission of India
The Election Commission of India was set up on 25 January 1950, as an independent constitutional body.

It is a three-member body consisting of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and other Election Commissioners, as decided from time to time.

All members are appointed by the President of India.
The Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners have a tenure of six years, or up to the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.

Once appointed, members enjoy security of tenure — they cannot be easily removed. This protects them from political pressure and ensures independence.

Powers of the Election Commission of India
The Election Commission has wide-ranging powers to ensure free and fair elections, categorised as follows:

Administrative Powers: Decides the dates of elections, rhanages polling arrangements, and appoints election staff.
Advisory Powers: Advises the President and Governors on matters relating to the disqualification of members of the legislature.

Quasi-Judicial Powers: Settles disputes related to political party recognition and the allotment of election symbols.

Regulatory Powers: Enforces the Model Code of Conduct and monitors election expenses incurred by candidates. Disciplinary Powers: Can transfer or suspend officials involved in election misconduct.

Main Functions of the ECI

1. Conducts elections to the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Legislative Assemblies, and the offices of the President and Vice-President.
2. Prepares and regularly updates electoral rolls.
3. Announces the election schedule and supervises the entire process.
4. Enforces the Model Code of Conduct and prevents misuse of government machinery.
5. Registers political parties and allots election symbols.
6. Promotes voter education and awareness through the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programme.
7. Monitors election expenditure to ensure transparency.
   
   

6. Laws Governing the Elections in India

Two laws govern the elections in India: Representation of the People Act, 1950

1. Deals with preparation of electoral rolls.
2. Defines qualifications for voters.
3. Lays down procedures for delimitation of constituencies.
4. Provides a brief on the allocation of seats in the Parliament and State Legislatures.

Representation of the People Act, 1951

1. Governs the conduct of elections.
2. Provides details about the administrative machinery used for conducting elections.
3. Defines qualification and disqualification of candidates.
4. Regulates election disputes and corrupt practices.

The Representation of the People Act, 1951 also lists electoral offences and corrupt practices. For example:

Offering or promising gifts or other benefits by a candidate, or with the candidate’s consent, to induce a person to contest or withdraw from an election, or to vote or refrain from voting.

Appealing to people to vote or refrain from voting on the basis of religion, caste, race, community, or language.

Candidates or any other person acting on their behalf are prohibited from seeking assistance from government servants to further the candidate’s election prospects.

This includes gazetted officers, judges and magistrates, members of the armed forces, police personnel, and excise officers.

7. Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC)
To prevent impersonation and ensure fairness during voting, the Election Commission introduced the Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC) system. Voters are encouraged to carry their EPIC while voting, though other identity documents are also accepted by the Election Commission.

8. Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs)
India uses Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) to make the voting process faster and more accurate. EVMs reduce human errors during counting and help in the quick declaration of results.

9. Process of Enrolment in the Electoral Roll
Citizens can apply for inclusion in the electoral roll through two modes:
Online: Using the Voters’ Service Portal (voters.eci.gov. in) or the Voter Helpline App.
Offline: By submitting Form 6 to the local Booth Level Officer (BLO) or Electoral Registration Officer (ERO).

Key Steps in Enrolment:
Submission: Fill out Form 6 (for new voters or those who have shifted residence).
Verification: A Booth Level Officer (BLO) conducts a field visit to confirm residence.
Approval: Once verified, the applicant’s name is added to the official electoral roll.
ID Issuance: The voter receives a physical Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC / Voter ID).

The Election Commission also conducts periodic Special Intensive Revisions (SIR) of electoral rolls to keep voter lists accurate and updated.

ETPBS stands for Electronically Transmitted Postal Ballot System. It enables service voters to cast their vote on an electronically received postal ballot from their preferred location, which is outside their originally assigned voting constituency.

Party System, Coalition Government and Anti-Defection Law

Elections are all about political competition and hence, political parties are integral to democratic elections.

Types of Party Systems
There are mainly three categories of party systems found around the world:
One-Party System: Only one political party is legally allowed to hold power and form the government. This system is typically found in authoritarian regimes. Examples: China, North Korea, Cuba.

Two-Party System: Two major political parties dominate the political landscape. Although other parties may exist, only these two have a realistic chance of forming a majority government. Examples: The United States (Democrats/ Republicans), the United Kingdom (Conservatives/ Labour).

Multi-Party System: More than two political parties have the potential to gain control of the government, often leading to coalition governments. Examples: India, France, Israel.
India follows a multi-party system, which is one of the most distinctive features of its democracy.

1. Sometimes, no single party secures a clear majority to win the elections, so a coalition government is formed.
2. The Anti-Defection Law prevents elected representa-tives from switching parties for personal gain, which is popularly known as floor-crossing or political horse-trading.

1. Party System in India
India has a multi-party system, meaning many political parties compete in elections, acting the catalyst for political mobilisation, representation of diverse interests, and policy formulation.

Criteria for National and State Party Recognition
The Election Commission of India lays down specific criteria for a political party to be recognised as a National Party or a State Party. A party may gain or lose this status depending on whether it fulfils the prescribed conditions.

Criteria for Recognition as a National Party
A political party is recognised as a National Party if it fulfils any one of the following conditions:

1. It is recognised as a State Party in four or more states; or
2. Its candidates secure at least 6% of the total valid votes in any four or more states in the latest Lok Sabha or Assembly elections, and it has at least four Members of Parliament (MPs) in the most recent Lok Sabha; or
3. It wins at least 2% of the total seats in the Lok Sabha from not less than three states.

Criteria for Recognition as a State Party
A party must fulfil any one of the following conditions:

1. At least 6% of the valid votes in the last Assembly election and at least 2 MLAs; or
2. At least 6% of the valid votes in the last Lok Sabha elections from that state and at least one MP from that state; or
3. At least 3% of the total seats or three seats, whichever is higher, in the last Assembly elections; or
4. At least one MP for every 25 members (or any fraction) allotted to the state in the Lok Sabha; or
5. At least 8% of the total valid votes in the last Assembly or Lok Sabha election from the state.

This recognition grants parties certain privileges, such as reserved election symbols, free broadcast time on state media during elections, and other electoral benefits.

2. Coalition Government
A coalition government occurs when multiple political parties join hands to form a government. This happens when a single political party does not receive a clear majority in elections.

Features of a Coalition Government
Multi-party Composition: A coalition government is formed by two or more political parties when no single party secures a majority.

Common Minimum Programme (CMP): Coalition partners agree on a shared policy agenda to govern effectively, balancing the priorities of different parties.

Power Sharing: Cabinet positions and responsibilities are allocated among coalition partners.
Consensus-based Decision-making: Major policies require consultation and mutual agreement among the allies.

Flexible Political Arrangements: Alliances may shift depending on political support and changing interests.

Limited Stability: The survival of the government depends on the continued support of coalition partners.
Checks on Dominance: A coalition government prevents the concentration of power in a single party, thereby strengthening democracy.

3. Anti-Defection Law
Enacted by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1985, the Anti-Defection Law prevents political instability caused by elected representatives switching parties for their personal benefit. The law was added in the 10th Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The main purpose of introducing this law was to maintain stability in government. A legislator may lose their membership if they change parties after the election.

Grounds for disqualification:

1. If any elected member gives up his party membership voluntarily.
2. If he votes against or abstains from voting in the House on any direction given by his respective political party.
3. If any independently elected member joins any party.
4. If any nominated member joins any political party after six months.

Exceptions under the Law:
Merger Exception: If two-thirds of the legislators of a party decides to merge with another party, then neither the member who leaves the original party nor the ones who stay will face disqualification.

Presiding Officer Exception: If any elected person is appointed as a chairman or speaker, they can resign from their party and rejoin that party if they resign from that post.

No Split Provision: Earlier, parties were allowed to split within the party under this law, but now this is not allowed.

Deciding Authority:
The presiding officer or speaker of the concerned House adjudicates any dispute arising regarding the disqualification of members due to defection.

Challenges to Free and Fair Elections: Conducting elections in India is challenging because of its large electorate, vast geographical diversity, and socio-economic differences. Issues such as misinformation, fake news, and voter intimidation can affect the electoral process. The Election Commission of India addresses these challenges through election laws, the Model Code of Conduct, EVMs, VVPAT, and voter awareness campaigns to ensure free, fair, and transparent elections.

Whip: An official direction issued by a political party to its members regarding voting in the legislature. A member who votes against the whip without prior permission may face disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law.

Horse-Trading: The unethical practice of influencing legislators with money or promises of ministerial posts to change their party allegiance. The Anti-Defection Law curbs horse-trading by imposing penalties such as disqualification.

The International Election Visitors’ Programme (IEVP): It is a flagship programme of the ECI for international cooperation and engagement with Election Management Bodies (EMBs) of other countries and international organisations. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with several Election Management Bodies (EMBs) across the world, as well as with international organisations such as the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES), the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), and the United Nations.