Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
2. “Politicians are elected, not selected”, in this context discuss in what way most electoral systems are faulty around the world with special focus on India. (250 words)
Reference: Deccan Herald
Why the question:
The article presents to us a detailed picture of electoral system around the world, and the faults in it.
Key Demand of the question:
One has to bring out the lacunae present in the electoral system, the issues arising out of them and give examples from the Indian context.
Directive:
Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you have to debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You have to give reasons for both for and against arguments.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Present first how Indian electoral system is based on elections and not on selections.
Body:
List down the issues involved in the electoral systems in general, explain with specific examples.
Provide for Indian context – elected representatives never visit their constituencies after being elected, let alone improving the plight of the people who voted them to power. In India, a substantial proportion of voters belong to economically backward classes.
Suggest what needs to be done, give few suggestions, and hint at the developments that have happened recently to address these issues.
Conclusion:
Conclude with way forward.
