Class 12 Political Science Chapter 6|The Crisis of Democratic Order Full Chapter Explanation 2022-23

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive overview of Chapter 6 from Class 12 Political Science, focusing on "The Crisis of Democratic Order." It covers key concepts, historical context, and significant events, particularly the Emergency period in India. This guide will help you understand the chapter's main themes and prepare effectively for exams.

Step 1: Understanding the Crisis of Democratic Order

• Define the concept of a democratic order and its importance in governance.
• Explore the characteristics of a democracy and the challenges it faces.
• Discuss the factors that can lead to a crisis in democratic systems, such as political instability, economic challenges, and public dissent.

Step 2: Background to the Emergency

• Examine the socio-political environment leading up to the Emergency declared in 1975.
• Identify the key players involved in the political landscape at that time, including prominent leaders and political parties.
• Analyze the reasons behind the government's decision to impose an Emergency.

Step 3: Economic Context

• Discuss the economic challenges faced by India during the early 1970s.
• Highlight issues such as inflation, unemployment, and agricultural distress.
• Explain how these economic factors contributed to the political crisis and the subsequent declaration of Emergency.

Step 4: Gujarat and Bihar Movements

• Investigate the significance of grassroots movements in Gujarat and Bihar.
• Explain how these movements reflected public discontent with the government.
• Discuss the impact of these movements on the political climate and the decision to declare Emergency.

Step 5: Conflict with Judiciary

• Describe the relationship between the government and the judiciary during the Emergency.
• Discuss major judicial decisions that challenged government actions and how the government responded.
• Highlight the implications of this conflict for democratic institutions.

Step 6: Declaration of Emergency and Consequences

• Outline the official declaration of Emergency on June 25, 1975, and its immediate effects.
• Analyze the consequences for civil liberties, press freedom, and political opposition.
• Discuss how the Emergency period altered the political landscape in India.

Step 7: Controversies Regarding Emergency

• Present various viewpoints on the necessity and justification of the Emergency.
• Discuss criticisms and defenses surrounding this period, including perspectives from political leaders and historians.
• Encourage critical thinking about the events and their interpretation.

Step 8: What Happened During the Emergency

• Summarize key events that occurred during the Emergency, including political repression and censorship.
• Discuss notable actions taken by the government, such as mass arrests and forced sterilizations.
• Highlight the role of opposition parties and their strategies during this time.

Step 9: Lessons of the Emergency

• Reflect on the lessons learned from the Emergency period regarding democracy and governance.
• Discuss the importance of safeguarding civil rights and the rule of law.
• Encourage students to consider how these lessons are applicable to contemporary issues in democracy.

Step 10: Politics After Emergency

• Examine the political scenario following the Emergency's end in 1977.
• Discuss the impact of the Emergency on subsequent elections and political parties.
• Analyze how the events influenced Indian politics in the long term.

Conclusion

This tutorial has outlined the key themes and events of "The Crisis of Democratic Order." Understanding this chapter is crucial for grasping the complexities of Indian democracy and the historical context of its challenges. For further study, consider exploring related topics in political science to deepen your knowledge and prepare for exams.