Question

Explain with examples how the dignity and freedom of citizens are best guaranteed in a democracy

Answer 1

Democracy is based on the principle of equality where every citizen irrespective of his/her caste or class has the right to vote.People whether educated or not can elect their representatives. This makes people ruler themeselves.This enhance the dignity of citizens.

Answer 2

(i) Dignity of women. Long struggles by women have created some sensitivity today that respect to and equal treatment of women are necessary ingredients of a democratic society.

(ii) Caste inequalities. Democracy in India have strengthened the claims of the disadvantaged and discriminated castes for equal status and equal opportunity.

(iii) Public expression of dissatisfaction. A public expression of dissatisfaction with democracy shows the success of the democratic project : it transforms people from the status of a ‘subject’ to that of a ‘citizen’. Public expression shows that people are aware and have the ability to look critically at the powerholders