Answer the following Questions:
1. How would Maya’s life be different in South Africa today?
Ans: Maya’s life would be different in South Africa today in terms of equal status in society. She would get a school where poor or rich, black or white children would study together. There would be hospitals for all patients alike. Ambulances would be used for all types of patients. She would get equal voting right. She would use the language of her choice. She would lead a free life.
2. What are the various ways in which people participate in the process of government?
Ans: People can participate in the process of government in the following ways:
i) Through voting people can elect their own leaders to represent them. These leaders take decisions on behalf of the people.
ii) By taking interest in the working of the government and by criticizing it when required.
iii) By expressing their views through several ways and make the government understand what actions they should take. They stage dharnas, hold rallies , strikes.
iv) By organizing themselves into social movements that seek to challenge the government and its functioning.
3. Why do you think we need the government to find solutions to many disputes or conflicts?
Ans: Government is a constitutional body that maintains law and order. It consists of representatives from all over the country. Problems arise between two states or two nations. Since the government represents the nation it can resolve conflicts in the interest of the people. A system without a government may face crisis and lawlessness . So government is necessary.
4. What actions does the government take to ensure that all people are treated equally?
Ans: The government makes laws and enforces them to abolish all sorts of discrimination . It makes provision to provide equal facilities to all classes of people, promotion of education among girls and economically backwards class.
5. Read through the chapter and discuss some of the key ideas of a democratic government. Make a list . For example, all people are
Ans:
i) All people are equal.
ii) Justice to all.
iii) Opportunities for equal education to all.
iv) No discrimination.
v) Equal status to all religions.
vi) No untouchability.