Class 10 : Social Science (In English) Political Science – Lesson 13. Power Sharing
EXPLANATION & SUMMARY
Power sharing is a fundamental principle of democratic governance that ensures no single individual or group holds absolute authority . The concept emphasizes the distribution of power among different organs, levels, and groups within a democratic system to maintain balance, prevent tyranny, and promote inclusive governance . This principle forms the cornerstone of modern democratic states and serves as a mechanism to accommodate diversity while maintaining unity .
Case Studies: Belgium and Sri Lanka
The Belgian Model of Accommodation
Belgium presents an exemplary model of successful power sharing in a diverse society . This small European country, with a population of approximately one crore, faces complex ethnic divisions with 59% Dutch-speaking Flemish people, 40% French-speaking Walloons, and 1% German speakers . The capital Brussels presents a unique challenge where 80% speak French despite the Dutch-speaking majority nationwide .
Belgium’s leaders recognized that unity could only be achieved by respecting different communities’ interests . Between 1970 and 1993, they amended their constitution four times to create an innovative power-sharing arrangement . The Belgian model includes equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking ministers in the central government, special laws requiring majority support from each linguistic group, decentralized state governments with significant autonomy, and separate community governments for cultural and educational matters .
Sri Lanka’s Majoritarian Approach
Sri Lanka provides a contrasting example of failed power sharing, demonstrating the consequences of majoritarian policies . With Sinhalese speakers comprising 74% and Tamil speakers 18% of the population, the country adopted policies favoring the majority community after independence in 1948 . The government recognized Sinhala as the only official language in 1956, implemented preferential policies for Sinhala applicants in universities and government jobs, and established Buddhism as the state religion .
These majoritarian measures created deep alienation among Tamil communities, leading to demands for regional autonomy and recognition of Tamil as an official language . When these demands were repeatedly denied, political organizations emerged demanding an independent Tamil Eelam state . The resulting civil war lasted for decades, causing thousands of deaths, displacing families, and severely damaging the country’s social, cultural, and economic fabric .
Why Power Sharing is Desirable
Prudential Reasons
Power sharing serves practical purposes in maintaining political stability and preventing conflicts . It helps reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups by ensuring that no single community dominates others . Social conflicts often lead to violence and political instability, making power sharing essential for maintaining political order . While imposing majority will may seem attractive in the short term, it ultimately undermines national unity by alienating minority communities .
Moral Reasons
Beyond practical considerations, power sharing represents the very spirit of democracy . Democratic governance involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise and who must live with its consequences . People have a fundamental right to be consulted about how they are governed, and legitimate government requires citizen participation that gives them a stake in the system . Power sharing ensures that democracy remains inclusive and representative of all sections of society .
Forms of Power Sharing
Horizontal Distribution of Power
Horizontal power sharing involves distributing power among different organs of government at the same level, including the legislature, executive, and judiciary . This separation ensures that no single organ exercises unlimited power, creating a system of checks and balances . Each organ monitors and restrains the others, maintaining equilibrium in governance . In India, Parliament represents the legislature, the Council of Ministers represents the executive, and the Supreme Court and High Courts represent the judiciary .
Vertical Distribution of Power
Vertical power sharing involves distributing power between different levels of government, from central to regional to local . The federal government handles national affairs while state governments manage regional matters . This system extends further to local governments like municipalities and panchayats, ensuring governance reaches the grassroots level . Federal division of power allows different levels of government to operate within their defined spheres while maintaining coordination .
Community Government
Power sharing among different social groups ensures representation for religious, linguistic, and ethnic communities . Belgium’s community government system exemplifies this form, where Dutch, French, and German-speaking communities have separate governments for cultural and educational matters . In various countries, constitutional provisions ensure representation for socially weaker sections and women in legislatures and administration . India’s reservation system demonstrates this principle by providing guaranteed representation for scheduled castes, scheduled tribes, and other backward classes .
Political Competition and Coalition Governments
Power sharing occurs through competition among political parties, pressure groups, and movements . Democratic systems ensure citizens can choose among various contenders for power, preventing concentration in any single party . Coalition governments represent direct power sharing when multiple parties collaborate to form government . Interest groups representing traders, industrialists, farmers, and workers also participate in governance through committees and influence on decision-making processes .
Conclusion
Power sharing represents both a practical necessity and a moral imperative in democratic governance . The contrasting experiences of Belgium and Sri Lanka demonstrate that accommodating diversity through power sharing strengthens democracy, while majoritarian approaches can lead to conflict and instability . Modern democracies must embrace various forms of power sharing to ensure inclusive governance that represents all sections of society while maintaining national unity and democratic values .
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QUESTIONS FROM TEXTBOOK
Question 1
What are the different forms of power sharing in modern democracies? Give an example of each of these.
Answer:
In modern democracies, power sharing takes several forms:
Horizontal Distribution of Power:
Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary. Each organ checks the others, ensuring no single organ becomes too powerful.
Example: In India, the Parliament (legislature), the President and Council of Ministers (executive), and the Supreme Court (judiciary) share power.
Vertical Division of Power:
Power is divided among governments at different levels—national, state, and local.
Example: In India, powers are distributed among the Union Government, State Governments, and local bodies like municipalities and panchayats.
Power Sharing Among Different Social Groups:
Power is shared among various social groups, such as religious and linguistic communities, to ensure representation and prevent alienation.
Example: In Belgium, there is a “community government” for different language groups.
Power Sharing Among Political Parties, Pressure Groups, and Movements:
Power is also shared through competition and cooperation among political parties, pressure groups, and movements.
Example: In India, different political parties form alliances and coalitions to run the government, ensuring power does not remain concentrated in one party.
Question 2
State one prudential reason and one moral reason for power sharing with an example from the Indian context.
Answer:
Prudential Reason:
Power sharing reduces the possibility of conflict between different social groups, leading to political stability and unity.
Example: In India, sharing power with states and local governments helps accommodate regional diversity and prevents separatist tendencies.
Moral Reason:
Power sharing is the true spirit of democracy, as it involves people in decision-making and respects every group’s voice.
Example: Reservation of seats for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in legislatures ensures their participation and representation, reflecting democratic values.
Question 3
After reading this chapter, three students drew different conclusions. Which of these do you agree with and why? Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Thomman: Power sharing helps reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
Mathayi: Power sharing is a way to ensure the stability of political order.
Ouseph: Power sharing is good for democracy.
Answer:
I agree with Ouseph that power sharing is good for democracy. It ensures that all groups have a voice in governance, prevents the concentration of power, and makes the system more inclusive and participatory. This not only strengthens democracy but also helps maintain harmony and stability in society.
Question 4
The Mayor of Merchtem, a town near Brussels in Belgium, has defended a ban on speaking French in the town’s schools.
Do you think this measure is in keeping with the spirit of Belgium’s power-sharing arrangements? Give your reasons in about 50 words.
Answer:
No, this measure goes against the spirit of Belgium’s power-sharing arrangements. Belgium’s model is based on respecting and accommodating linguistic diversity. Banning French in schools would alienate the French-speaking community and undermine the principle of equal representation and mutual respect among different language groups.
Question 5
Read the following passage and pick out any one of the prudential reasons for power sharing offered in this example.
“We need to give more power to the panchayats to realize the dream of Mahatma Gandhi and the hopes of the makers of our Constitution. Panchayati Raj establishes true democracy. It restores power to the only place where power belongs in a democracy—in the hands of the people. Giving power to Panchayats is also a way to reduce corruption and increase efficiency.”
Answer:
One prudential reason for power sharing mentioned here is that giving power to Panchayats helps reduce corruption and increase efficiency. By distributing power to local levels, decisions are made closer to the people, making governance more transparent and effective.
Question 6
Different arguments are usually put forth in favor of and against power sharing. Identify those which are in favor of power sharing and select the answer using the codes given below:
Power sharing:
A. reduces conflict among different communities
B. decreases the possibility of arbitrariness
C. delays decision making process
D. accommodates diverse groups
E. increases instability and divisiveness
F. promotes people’s participation in government
G. undermines the unity of a country
Select the correct answer:
(a) A, B, D, F
(b) A, C, E, F
(c) A, B, D, G
(d) B, C, D, F
Answer:
(a) A, B, D, F
Question 7
Consider the following statements about power sharing arrangements in Belgium and Sri Lanka.
A. In Belgium, the Dutch-speaking majority people tried to impose their domination on the minority French-speaking community.
B. In Sri Lanka, the policies of the government sought to ensure the dominance of the Sinhala-speaking majority.
C. The Tamils in Sri Lanka demanded a federal arrangement of power that would give them autonomy.
D. The Sri Lankan government agreed to the demands of the Tamils.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) A, B, C, and D
(b) A, B, and C
(c) A, B, and D
(d) B, C, and D
Answer:
(b) A, B, and C
Question 8
Match List I (forms of power sharing) with List II (examples) and select the correct answer using the codes given below:
List I (Forms of Power Sharing) List II (Examples)
Power shared among different organs of government A. Community government in Belgium
Power shared among governments at different levels B. Secret ballot elections
Power shared among different social groups C. Federal government in India
Power shared among political parties, pressure groups and movements D. Legislative, executive and judiciary
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1-D, 2-C, 3-A, 4-B
(b) 1-B, 2-A, 3-D, 4-C
(c) 1-D, 2-A, 3-C, 4-B
(d) 1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-A
Answer:
(a) 1-D, 2-C, 3-A, 4-B
Question 9
Consider the following two statements on power sharing and select the answer using the codes given below:
A. Power sharing is good for democracy.
B. It helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups.
Which of these statements are true and correct?
(a) A only
(b) B only
(c) Both A and B
(d) None
Answer:
(c) Both A and B
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OTHER IMPORTANT QUESTIONS FOR EXAMS
[CBSE MODEL QUESTION PAPER]
🔹 Section A: Multiple Choice Questions (1 × 6 = 6 marks)
Q1. Which one of the following statements about power sharing is correct?
(a) It leads to instability in the political system.
(b) It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.
(c) It decreases citizen participation in governance.
(d) It is opposed by most democratic countries.
Answer: (b) It reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups.
Q2. Belgium accommodated its diverse population by:
(a) Imposing the French language in all regions
(b) Establishing a unitary government
(c) Giving equal representation to all linguistic groups
(d) Declaring Dutch as the only national language
Answer: (c) Giving equal representation to all linguistic groups
Q3. In Sri Lanka, which community enjoyed majority dominance after independence?
(a) Tamil Muslims
(b) Indian Tamils
(c) Sinhalese
(d) Sri Lankan Tamils
Answer: (c) Sinhalese
Q4. What is the main objective of horizontal power sharing?
(a) To divide power between ethnic groups
(b) To ensure centralization of power
(c) To allow different organs of government to exercise checks and balances
(d) To grant more power to the military
Answer: (c) To allow different organs of government to exercise checks and balances
Q5. Which of the following is not an element of the Belgian model of power sharing?
(a) Equal number of ministers from Dutch and French communities
(b) Separate governments for Brussels and the central government
(c) Exclusive powers to the French community only
(d) Community government with cultural powers
Answer: (c) Exclusive powers to the French community only
Q6. Which of the following is a form of vertical power sharing?
(a) Between Legislature and Executive
(b) Between different levels of government
(c) Between majority and minority communities
(d) Between different pressure groups
Answer: (b) Between different levels of government
🔹 Section B: Very Short Answer Questions (2 × 6 = 12 marks)
Answer in 30–40 words.
Q7. What do you understand by the term ‘power sharing’?
Answer:
Power sharing refers to the distribution of political power among different organs of government and social groups to prevent concentration of power and ensure inclusiveness and stability in a democracy.
Q8. How did the Sri Lankan government try to establish Sinhala supremacy?
Answer:
By declaring Sinhala as the only official language, making Buddhism the state religion, and denying equal rights to Tamils in education, jobs, and political representation.
Q9. Name any two forms of power sharing practiced in modern democracies.
Answer:
Horizontal power sharing among different organs of government (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary).
Vertical power sharing among different levels of government (Central, State, Local).
Q10. Why is power sharing desirable in a democracy? Give one prudential and one moral reason.
Answer:
Prudential: Reduces chances of conflict and ensures political stability.
Moral: Upholds the spirit of democracy by involving all groups in decision-making.
Q11. What was the role of the community government in Belgium?
Answer:
It was elected by people from one language community and had powers over cultural, educational, and language-related issues to maintain harmony among linguistic groups.
Q12. State any two consequences of majoritarianism in Sri Lanka.
Answer:
Widespread discontent and protests among Tamil minorities.
Growth of civil war due to ethnic tensions and lack of representation.
🔹 Section C: Short Answer Questions (3 × 12 = 36 marks)
Answer in 80–100 words.
Q13. Compare the power sharing arrangements of Belgium and Sri Lanka.
Answer:
Belgium adopted a policy of accommodation, ensuring equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking communities in central government. It granted cultural autonomy to communities and gave Brussels a separate government. In contrast, Sri Lanka followed a majoritarian policy, promoting Sinhala supremacy by making Sinhala the only official language and Buddhism the state religion, marginalizing Tamil minorities.
Q14. Why is power sharing essential in modern democracies? State three reasons.
Answer:
It prevents the concentration of power in one hand, ensuring accountability.
It reduces social conflicts by including different groups in decision-making.
It strengthens the foundations of democracy by promoting consensus and unity.
Q15. Describe any three features of the horizontal distribution of power.
Answer:
Power is shared among the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
Each organ checks the others, ensuring a system of checks and balances.
No organ can exercise unlimited power, which promotes democratic governance.
Q16. Explain three advantages of power sharing in democratic societies.
Answer:
Ensures better representation of various social and ethnic groups.
Reduces the chances of violent conflict and enhances national unity.
Encourages wider public participation and accountability in governance.
Q17. What are the basic principles of power sharing in democracy?
Answer:
People are the source of all political power.
Power must be divided among different levels of government.
It must be shared among different social groups and organs of the government.
Q18. State three demands made by the Sri Lankan Tamils.
Answer:
Recognition of Tamil as an official language.
Equal opportunity in jobs and education.
Autonomy for Tamil-speaking regions.
Q19. What lessons can be learnt from the power sharing model of Belgium?
Answer:
Accommodating diversity is essential for national unity.
Cultural and linguistic rights prevent social conflicts.
Inclusive governance strengthens democratic institutions.
Q20. Describe any three features of the community government in Belgium.
Answer:
It is elected by people belonging to one language community.
It has powers over cultural, educational, and language-related matters.
It exists independently of regional and central governments.
Q21. Differentiate between horizontal and vertical power sharing.
Answer:
Horizontal: Power shared among organs of the same level (e.g., Legislature, Executive, Judiciary).
Vertical: Power shared among different levels (Central, State, Local).
Horizontal involves checks and balances; vertical ensures decentralization.
Q22. What do you understand by the term ‘majoritarianism’? Give an example.
Answer:
Majoritarianism is a belief that the majority community should dominate in all aspects of governance. Example: In Sri Lanka, Sinhalese majority imposed Sinhala language and promoted Buddhism, ignoring Tamil minorities.
Q23. Why is power sharing considered good for democracy? Give three arguments.
Answer:
It accommodates diverse interests and avoids tyranny of majority.
Promotes trust and cooperation among different communities.
Enhances stability and longevity of democratic governments.
Q24. How can power sharing lead to the unity of a country?
Answer:
By giving different communities representation and voice, power sharing fosters mutual respect, prevents alienation, and encourages national integration, thereby promoting unity.
🔹 Section D: Long Answer Questions (5 × 5 = 25 marks)
Answer in 120–150 words.
Q25. Describe the power sharing arrangements made in Belgium to accommodate the different communities.
Answer:
Belgium adopted a unique power sharing model:
Equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking ministers in the central government.
Separate governments for Brussels with equal power for both groups.
Community government for each linguistic group with powers over culture, education, and language.
Constitutionally guaranteed protection to minority groups.
This system respected cultural differences and ensured fair participation, avoiding conflict. It serves as a model for handling complex diversity.
Q26. Discuss the consequences of majoritarianism in Sri Lanka.
Answer:
Sri Lanka’s majoritarian policy alienated the Tamil community.
Tamils were denied equal rights in language, jobs, and education.
Sinhala was declared the sole official language; Buddhism was promoted.
Peaceful protests turned into civil war, causing loss of life and property.
Ethnic distrust widened, weakening national unity.
The conflict shows that imposing majority views leads to instability and endangers democracy.
Q27. Explain the forms of power sharing practiced in India.
Answer:
India practices multiple forms of power sharing:
Horizontal: Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary operate independently.
Vertical: Power shared between Central, State, and Local governments.
Community-based: Reservation for Scheduled Castes, Tribes, and minorities in legislatures and education.
Coalition governments: Political power shared among parties.
These ensure democracy, prevent concentration of power, and promote inclusion.
Q28. “Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.” Justify with suitable arguments.
Answer:
Democracy is based on the idea of equality and inclusion. Power sharing:
Prevents dominance of one group over others.
Respects every voice and community.
Ensures fair governance through checks and balances.
Reduces social tensions by addressing diverse interests.
Leads to long-term peace and stability in multi-ethnic societies.
Q29. Explain how the concept of power sharing is applied among different organs of government.
Answer:
Power is divided horizontally:
Legislature makes laws, Executive implements them, Judiciary ensures justice.
Each organ has its own powers and responsibilities.
They check each other’s powers, preventing misuse.
This system of checks and balances ensures accountability and limits authoritarianism.
It is essential for a healthy democracy and the rule of law.
🔹 Section E: Map Skill-Based Questions (1 × 2 = 2 marks)
Q30. (Conceptual) In the context of Belgium’s federal system, locate and label the region where both Dutch and French-speaking communities are present in equal strength.
Answer: Brussels – the capital of Belgium where both communities have equal representation in governance.
Q31. (Intentionally omitted as per your instructions: lesson-based paper only)
🔹 Section F: Case-Based Questions (6 × 4 = 24 marks)
Each question includes a passage followed by four 1-mark questions.
Q32. Read the source and answer the questions:
“Power may also be shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and judiciary. This is known as horizontal distribution of power. It allows different organs of government placed at the same level to exercise different powers. Such a separation ensures that none of the organs can exercise unlimited power.”
(i) What is the distribution of power among Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary called?
Answer: Horizontal distribution of power
(ii) Why are these organs placed at the same level?
Answer: Because each has its own powers and responsibilities in governance
(iii) What principle does this form of power sharing ensure?
Answer: Principle of checks and balances
(iv) Why is unlimited power dangerous in a democracy?
Answer: It leads to authoritarian rule and undermines democratic values
Q33. Read the source and answer the questions:
“In Sri Lanka, the democratically elected government adopted a series of majoritarian measures to establish Sinhala supremacy. In 1956, an Act was passed to recognize Sinhala as the only official language, thus disregarding Tamil. The government also declared Buddhism as the official religion.”
(i) What policy did the Sri Lankan government follow post-independence?
Answer: Majoritarianism
(ii) Which Act was passed in 1956 in Sri Lanka?
Answer: Sinhala Only Act
(iii) What was the impact of declaring Buddhism as the state religion?
Answer: Marginalization of the Tamil community
(iv) What was the outcome of these measures?
Answer: Civil unrest and ethnic conflict
Q34. Read the source and answer the questions:
“Belgium recognized the existence of regional and cultural differences and provided for a federal government along with community and state governments. Community governments were elected by people of one language community and had powers over culture, education and language.”
(i) What kind of power sharing does Belgium follow?
Answer: Community-based and federal power sharing
(ii) What is a community government in Belgium?
Answer: A body elected by one language group for cultural and educational matters
(iii) Name one power of the community government.
Answer: Power over language-related issues
(iv) Why was this arrangement successful?
Answer: It respected diversity and ensured equal participation of all groups
Q35. Read the source and answer the questions:
“Power sharing is desirable because it reduces the possibility of conflict between social groups. It is a good way to ensure the stability of political order. Imposing the will of the majority over others undermines unity.”
(i) What does power sharing prevent?
Answer: Social conflict
(ii) How does it promote stability?
Answer: By accommodating different interests in governance
(iii) What happens if the will of the majority is imposed?
Answer: It causes resentment and threatens national unity
(iv) What type of principle does this represent – prudential or moral?
Answer: Prudential
Q36. Read the source and answer the questions:
“In Belgium, both Dutch and French-speaking communities had equal representation in the central government. Some laws required the approval of both groups. This prevented the domination of one over the other.”
(i) What was the key feature of central government in Belgium?
Answer: Equal representation of Dutch and French speakers
(ii) What condition was needed for passing major laws?
Answer: Support from both language groups
(iii) What did this arrangement prevent?
Answer: Domination by one community
(iv) What value does it promote in democracy?
Answer: Inclusion and power sharing
Q37. Read the source and answer the questions:
“Power sharing is not only about political arrangements. It is also about respecting the voices of all social groups. For example, in India, Scheduled Castes and Tribes have reserved seats in legislatures to ensure their participation.”
(i) Which form of power sharing does this example reflect?
Answer: Power sharing among social groups
(ii) What is the purpose of reserving seats?
Answer: To ensure representation of disadvantaged communities
(iii) How does this strengthen democracy?
Answer: By giving a voice to marginalized sections
(iv) What moral value does it reflect?
Answer: Equality and social justice
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QUESTIONS FROM COMPETITION EXAMS
🔵 Question 1:
Which country is famous for its power-sharing between different linguistic and religious groups?
(A) India
(B) Belgium
(C) Sri Lanka
(D) USA
✅ Correct Answer: (B) Belgium
📄 Exam: SSC CGL 2018
🟢 Question 2:
Brussels is the capital of which country?
(A) France
(B) Belgium
(C) Germany
(D) Netherlands
✅ Correct Answer: (B) Belgium
📄 Exam: NDA 2017
🔴 Question 3:
Which community is in majority in Sri Lanka?
(A) Sinhala
(B) Tamil
(C) Christians
(D) Muslims
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Sinhala
📄 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020
🟡 Question 4:
Which of the following is a form of power sharing?
(A) Among governments at different levels
(B) Among different organs of government
(C) Among different social groups
(D) All of these
✅ Correct Answer: (D) All of these
📄 Exam: SSC JE 2019
🔵 Question 5:
Belgium has how many levels of government?
(A) 2
(B) 3
(C) 4
(D) 5
✅ Correct Answer: (C) 4
📄 Exam: SSC MTS 2020
🟢 Question 6:
What is the capital of Sri Lanka?
(A) Colombo
(B) Kandy
(C) Jaffna
(D) Galle
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Colombo
📄 Exam: SSC GD 2020
🔴 Question 7:
Majoritarianism refers to:
(A) Rule by majority community ignoring the rights of others
(B) Rule by minorities
(C) Rule by military
(D) Rule by monarchy
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Rule by majority community ignoring the rights of others
📄 Exam: SSC JE 2021
🟡 Question 8:
Which of the following is NOT a method of power sharing?
(A) Horizontal distribution
(B) Vertical distribution
(C) Concentration of power
(D) Community government
✅ Correct Answer: (C) Concentration of power
📄 Exam: IBPS Clerk 2019
🔵 Question 9:
Community Government is a concept in:
(A) Belgium
(B) Sri Lanka
(C) India
(D) France
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Belgium
📄 Exam: SSC CHSL 2022
🟢 Question 10:
Power shared among different levels of government is known as:
(A) Horizontal division
(B) Vertical division
(C) Federal division
(D) Both B and C
✅ Correct Answer: (D) Both B and C
📄 Exam: UPSC Prelims 2020
🔴 Question 11:
Which is NOT an example of horizontal power sharing?
(A) Legislature
(B) Executive
(C) Judiciary
(D) Military
✅ Correct Answer: (D) Military
📄 Exam: SSC GD 2019
🟡 Question 12:
Sri Lanka adopted which policy in 1956?
(A) Sinhala Only Act
(B) Tamil Rights Act
(C) Federal Act
(D) Minority Rights Act
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Sinhala Only Act
📄 Exam: SSC JE 2018
🔵 Question 13:
Which is considered a good practice in democracy?
(A) Power sharing
(B) Power concentration
(C) Power neglect
(D) Power centralization
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Power sharing
📄 Exam: SSC CHSL 2019
🟢 Question 14:
Power sharing reduces the possibility of:
(A) Conflicts
(B) Riots
(C) Political instability
(D) All of these
✅ Correct Answer: (D) All of these
📄 Exam: NDA 2018
🔴 Question 15:
Which is the basis of vertical division of power?
(A) Different levels of government
(B) Different organs of government
(C) Different social groups
(D) Different political parties
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Different levels of government
📄 Exam: SSC MTS 2021
🟡 Question 16:
Which country follows the principle of ‘unity in diversity’?
(A) Belgium
(B) Sri Lanka
(C) India
(D) Germany
✅ Correct Answer: (C) India
📄 Exam: SSC CGL 2020
🔵 Question 17:
Power sharing is essential for:
(A) Reducing conflict
(B) Stability of political order
(C) Both A and B
(D) None of these
✅ Correct Answer: (C) Both A and B
📄 Exam: SSC CHSL 2020
🟢 Question 18:
Why is power sharing desirable?
(A) Because it reduces conflicts
(B) Because it upholds the spirit of democracy
(C) Because it ensures political stability
(D) All of these
✅ Correct Answer: (D) All of these
📄 Exam: SSC JE 2019
🔴 Question 19:
In Belgium, the French-speaking people live mainly in:
(A) Brussels
(B) Wallonia
(C) Flanders
(D) Both A and B
✅ Correct Answer: (D) Both A and B
📄 Exam: CAPF 2019
🟡 Question 20:
Community government in Belgium deals with:
(A) Law and Order
(B) Culture, Education, Language
(C) Defense
(D) Judiciary
✅ Correct Answer: (B) Culture, Education, Language
📄 Exam: SSC CGL 2021
🔵 Question 21:
Which country’s power-sharing is an example of accommodation of diversities?
(A) USA
(B) Belgium
(C) China
(D) Pakistan
✅ Correct Answer: (B) Belgium
📄 Exam: SSC GD 2020
🟢 Question 22:
Which country suffered from majoritarianism?
(A) Sri Lanka
(B) India
(C) Belgium
(D) Germany
✅ Correct Answer: (A) Sri Lanka
📄 Exam: SSC CHSL 2017
🔴 Question 23:
Which level of government exists in India but not in Belgium?
(A) State Government
(B) Central Government
(C) Community Government
(D) Panchayati Raj
✅ Correct Answer: (D) Panchayati Raj
📄 Exam: SSC MTS 2019
🟡 Question 24:
What does horizontal power sharing mean?
(A) Between Union and States
(B) Between Executive, Legislature, Judiciary
(C) Between Provinces
(D) Between Political Parties
✅ Correct Answer: (B) Between Executive, Legislature, Judiciary
📄 Exam: SSC JE 2020
🔵 Question 25:
Which of the following is NOT a benefit of power sharing?
(A) Reduces chances of conflict
(B) Ensures political stability
(C) Increases dictatorship
(D) Promotes democracy
✅ Correct Answer: (C) Increases dictatorship
📄 Exam: SSC CGL 2021
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ONE PAGE REVISION SHEET
Definition of Power Sharing:
It means the distribution of power among different organs and levels of government to prevent concentration in one hand and ensure democracy.
Importance of Power Sharing:
Reduces conflict between social groups, ensures political stability, and strengthens democracy by including diverse voices in governance.
Case Study – Belgium:
Multi-ethnic country with Dutch (59%), French (40%) and German-speaking (1%) people. Adopted complex power-sharing arrangements to avoid division.
Belgium’s Power Sharing Model:
Equal number of ministers from Dutch and French communities
Separate governments for Brussels and communities
‘Community government’ for cultural and language issues
Case Study – Sri Lanka:
Majoritarian policies favoured Sinhalese over Tamils after independence. Tamil demands were ignored, leading to civil war and tension.
Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka:
Sinhalese made Sinhala the official language, gave preference in jobs and education. Tamils felt alienated and demanded an independent state.
Types of Power Sharing:
Horizontal Power Sharing: Among organs (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary)
Vertical Power Sharing: Among different levels (Union, State, Local)
Social Group-Based Sharing: Among religious, linguistic groups
Political Sharing: Among political parties, coalitions, pressure groups
Horizontal Distribution of Power:
Ensures checks and balances. For example, Judiciary can check Executive and Legislature; each has separate powers.
Vertical Division of Power:
Power shared among Union, State, and Local governments (like Panchayati Raj) to bring governance closer to people.
Why Power Sharing is Desirable:
Prudential Reason: Reduces social conflict
Moral Reason: Upholds the spirit of democracy by respecting all voices
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