Class 10 : Social Science (In English) Political Science – Lesson 13. Power Sharing
EXPLANATION & SUMMARY
🔵 Introduction
Power sharing means the distribution of power among different organs, levels, and groups in society so that no single person or group controls everything. In a democracy, power sharing is very important because it reduces conflict, protects diversity, and makes government more stable and fair. This chapter explains why power sharing is desirable and how it works in real democratic systems.
🟢 Meaning of Power Sharing
🌿 Power sharing means that power should not remain concentrated in one hand.
✏️ It should be distributed among different institutions and social groups.
💡 This helps prevent domination by one group over others.
🧠 In deeply divided societies, power sharing becomes even more important because it protects unity without destroying diversity.
🔴 The Case of Belgium
Belgium is a small European country, but it has a very complex social composition.
Social composition
🔹 about 59 percent people speak Dutch
🔹 about 40 percent speak French
🔹 a small minority speaks German
🔹 in the capital city Brussels, many people speak French while Dutch speakers are also present
❗ The minority French-speaking group was economically and educationally advanced, which created tension with Dutch-speaking people.
Steps taken by Belgium
🌿 Belgium adopted a special arrangement to avoid conflict.
🔹 The central government shares power with state governments.
🔹 Many powers of the states are not controlled by the centre.
🔹 Brussels has a separate government with equal representation.
🔹 A community government was created for language groups to deal with cultural and educational issues.
🧠 Belgium’s model shows that power sharing can reduce social conflict by respecting regional and cultural identities.
🟡 The Case of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka also had a divided society, but it handled diversity in a very different way.
Social composition
🔹 Sinhala speakers formed the majority
🔹 Tamil speakers included Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils
🔹 there were also differences in religion
Majoritarian policies
After independence, the government followed majoritarian ideas.
🔹 Sinhala was made the only official language
🔹 preference was given to Sinhala applicants in universities and jobs
🔹 Buddhism was given special importance
❗ These decisions ignored Tamil interests and created deep resentment.
🧠 Instead of sharing power, the Sri Lankan government tried to impose the will of the majority. This led to conflict, mistrust, and civil war. The chapter uses Sri Lanka to show what happens when diversity is not respected.
🔵 Why is Power Sharing Desirable?
Power sharing is desirable for two major reasons.
Prudential reason
🌿 Power sharing helps reduce the possibility of social conflict.
🔹 It keeps society stable.
🔹 It prevents violence and political tension.
🔹 It strengthens national unity.
🧠 This is called a prudential reason because it is based on practical benefit.
Moral reason
🌿 Power sharing is also desirable because it is the very spirit of democracy.
🔹 People have the right to be consulted.
🔹 Different groups should participate in decision-making.
🔹 Government should reflect the will of all, not only the majority.
🧠 This is called a moral reason because it is based on values of justice and democracy.
🟢 Forms of Power Sharing
Power sharing can take place in different ways.
Among different organs of government
🔹 Legislature makes laws
🔹 Executive implements laws
🔹 Judiciary interprets laws
This is called the horizontal distribution of power.
🧠 Each organ checks the others. This system prevents concentration of power and protects democratic balance.
Among governments at different levels
🔹 Central government
🔹 State government
🔹 Local government
This is called the vertical distribution of power.
🧠 This allows regional issues to be handled at the appropriate level and gives more people a chance to participate.
Among social groups
Power may be shared among religious or linguistic communities.
🔹 Community government in Belgium is an example
🔹 Reservation in institutions can also be a form of power sharing
🧠 This ensures that minority groups are not ignored.
Among political parties and pressure groups
In democracy, different parties compete for power.
When different parties form alliances or coalitions, power is shared.
🔹 coalition governments
🔹 role of opposition
🔹 role of pressure groups and movements
🧠 This form of sharing reflects public opinion and prevents one-party domination.
🔴 Horizontal Power Sharing
In horizontal power sharing, power is shared among different organs at the same level.
🌿 Legislature, executive, and judiciary work separately.
✏️ Each has its own authority.
❗ One organ should not take over the function of another.
Importance
🔹 prevents misuse of power
🔹 creates checks and balances
🔹 protects citizens’ rights
🧠 This is essential because democracy does not only mean elections. It also means limited and accountable government.
🟡 Vertical Power Sharing
In vertical power sharing, power is divided among higher and lower levels of government.
🌿 In countries like India, power is divided between the Union and the States.
Local self-government adds another level.
Importance
🔹 improves administration
🔹 brings government closer to the people
🔹 respects regional diversity
🧠 This form is important in large countries where one central authority cannot manage everything effectively.
🔵 Power Sharing Among Social Groups
Some societies are divided by language, religion, ethnicity, or culture. In such situations, democracy must give representation to all.
🌿 This can be done through constitutional provisions and special arrangements.
🔹 minority safeguards
🔹 community representation
🔹 reservation in some cases
🧠 This form of sharing helps build trust. It sends the message that all communities belong equally to the nation.
🟢 Power Sharing Among Political Parties
In democratic politics, power is also shared through party competition.
🌿 No party may get full control all the time.
🔹 different parties form governments at different times
🔹 coalition governments share authority among partners
🔹 opposition parties question the government
🧠 This ensures that power remains open, flexible, and accountable. It also reflects the diversity of public opinion.
🔴 Pressure Groups and Movements
Besides political parties, pressure groups and social movements also influence public decisions.
🌿 They are not always part of the government, but they affect policies.
🔹 labour unions
🔹 farmers’ organisations
🔹 women’s groups
🔹 social justice movements
🧠 Their role shows that democracy is not limited to formal institutions. Public voices outside government also matter.
🟡 Belgium and Sri Lanka Compared
Belgium and Sri Lanka are both socially diverse countries, but they followed different paths.
Belgium
🔹 respected diversity
🔹 created special arrangements
🔹 shared power
🔹 reduced conflict
Sri Lanka
🔹 followed majoritarian politics
🔹 ignored minority interests
🔹 concentrated power
🔹 increased conflict
🧠 This comparison is the heart of the chapter. It proves that diversity itself is not the problem. The real issue is how the state responds to diversity.
🔵 Conclusion
Power sharing is essential in democracy because it respects differences and prevents conflict. It is both practical and morally right. Belgium succeeded because it adjusted its system to social diversity, while Sri Lanka suffered because it followed majoritarian policies. A democratic society remains peaceful and strong when power is shared among institutions, governments, social groups, and political parties.
📝 Summary
🔵 Power sharing means distributing power among different organs, levels, and groups.
🟢 Belgium managed diversity through cooperation and special arrangements.
🔴 Sri Lanka followed majoritarian policies and faced conflict.
🟡 Power sharing is desirable for practical as well as moral reasons.
🔵 It can take place among organs of government, different levels, social groups, and political parties.
🌍 Democracy becomes more stable and inclusive when power is shared fairly.
📌 Quick Recap
🔵 Power sharing prevents concentration of power.
🟢 Belgium shows successful sharing of power.
🔴 Sri Lanka shows the danger of majority domination.
🟡 Power sharing is both useful and democratic.
🌍 It protects unity while respecting diversity.
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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)
ESPECIALLY MADE FROM THIS CHAPTER ONLY
🔹 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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