Solution:

Why does a democratic country need a Constitution?

A Constitution is a fundamental law that outlines the principles, rules, and framework for the functioning of a country. In a democratic country, the Constitution is important for the following reasons:

• Establishes the rule of law: The Constitution ensures that all citizens, including government officials, are governed by laws and that no one is above the law.
• Defines the structure of government: It defines the roles, powers, and functions of various branches of government, including the executive, legislature, and judiciary, ensuring a separation of powers and preventing abuse of power.
• Protects the rights of citizens: The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms to all citizens, such as the right to equality, freedom of speech, and the right to life and liberty.
• Ensures justice and fairness: It provides a framework for justice, ensuring that all citizens are treated fairly and equally, and that disputes can be resolved through a legal system.
• Provides stability: A Constitution helps in maintaining political stability by outlining clear rules for governance and resolving conflicts, which is essential for the functioning of a democracy.
• Sets the limits of government power: It defines the powers of the government and limits its authority to prevent the misuse of power and protect the freedoms of the people.

Solution:

Difference in Who Exercises 'Executive Power' in the 1990 and 2015 Constitutions of Nepal

In the 1990 Constitution of Nepal, the executive power was vested in His Majesty and the Council of Ministers. This means that the King (His Majesty) held significant executive authority, alongside the Council of Ministers.

In the 2015 Constitution of Nepal, the executive power is vested solely in the Council of Ministers, pursuant to the Constitution and law. In this case, the executive power is no longer associated with the monarchy but is instead vested entirely in the elected government.

Solution:

What would happen if there were no restrictions on the power of elected representatives?

If there were no restrictions on the power of elected representatives, several consequences could arise. The primary concern would be the abuse of power. Elected representatives might make decisions that benefit themselves or a specific group, rather than considering the well-being of the entire population. Without checks and balances, they could pass laws that violate the rights of citizens, limit freedom, or ignore public needs.

In a democratic system, restrictions on power ensure that no individual or group can dominate or control the government. These restrictions, such as the separation of powers between the legislature, executive, and judiciary, are essential in maintaining fairness and accountability. Without such limitations, the government could become authoritarian, leading to corruption, inequality, and injustice.

Moreover, without restrictions, the voices of minority groups might be ignored, and decisions could be made without proper consultation with the public. It could also lead to a lack of transparency, where decisions are made behind closed doors, away from public scrutiny.

Solution:

(a) In a school with 30 teachers, 20 of them are male.

Minority: Female teachers (10 out of 30)

Reason: It is important to respect the views of the minority to ensure gender equality and create an inclusive environment where both male and female teachers have equal opportunities for expression and participation.

(b) In a city, 5 per cent of the population are Buddhists.

Minority: Buddhists (5% of the population)

Reason: Respecting the views of the minority helps to preserve religious harmony and ensures that all communities can practice their faith without fear of discrimination or marginalization.

(c) In a factory mess for all employees, 80 per cent are vegetarians.

Minority: Non-vegetarians (20% of the employees)

Reason: Respecting the views of the minority ensures that everyone’s dietary preferences are taken into account and promotes a culture of tolerance and understanding within the workplace.

(d) In a class of 50 students, 40 belong to more well-off families.

Minority: Students from less well-off families (10 out of 50)

Reason: It is important to respect the views of the minority to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where students from all economic backgrounds feel valued and can participate equally in class activities.

Solution:

Key Feature

Federalism
Separation of Powers
Fundamental Rights
Parliamentary Form of Government

Significance

Federalism
Federalism is important because it ensures the division of powers between the central and state governments, allowing for better governance at different levels. It also helps accommodate the diversity of India by giving states the authority to manage their own affairs.
Separation of Powers
The separation of powers ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful. It helps maintain a system of checks and balances, which protects citizens' rights and prevents misuse of power.
Fundamental Rights
Fundamental rights are essential because they guarantee the basic freedoms and protections of all citizens, ensuring equality and justice for everyone. They safeguard individuals from the government’s arbitrary actions and promote human dignity.
Parliamentary Form of Government
The parliamentary system ensures that the executive is accountable to the legislature, which is elected by the people. It helps maintain a system where the government works in the interest of the people and is answerable to them.

Solution:

(a) Bangladesh

• West Bengal
• Assam
• Meghalaya
• Tripura
• Manipur

(b) Bhutan

• Arunachal Pradesh
• Assam
• Sikkim
• West Bengal

(c) Nepal

• Sikkim
• West Bengal
• Bihar
• Uttar Pradesh