Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
5. Free and fair elections are crucial for the functioning of a democratic society, as they provide citizens with the opportunity to express their political will and hold their leaders accountable. Elucidate. (250 words)
Difficulty level: Tough
Reference: Indian Express
Why the question:
The Supreme Court’s direction on the city’s mayoral election has delivered a huge message: You can’t game democracy.
Key Demand of the question:
To write about the importance of free and fair elections and how to ensure them.
Directive word:
Elucidate – Give a detailed account as to how and why it occurred, or what is the context. You must be defining key terms wherever appropriate and substantiate with relevant associated facts.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Begin by giving context.
Body:
In the first part, mention the importance of free and fair elections – crucial for democratic societies, providing citizens with a platform to express their political will, choose representatives, and ensure government accountability. They confer legitimacy, protect human rights, and prevent authoritarianism.
Next, write about the ways to ensure free and fair elections – independent election commission, model code of conduct, transparent electoral funding, voter education, media freedom, international observation and secure voting systems etc.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a way forward.
