Consider the following statements about the "tyranny of the majority": 1. It is a risk exclusively in countries with a theocratic government. 2. It can result in the coercion and killing of religious minorities. 3. The Indian Constitution lacks any provision to protect against this tyranny. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

The correct option is (b). Explanation The "tyranny of the majority" refers to a situation in which a dominant group uses its numerical advantage to impose its will on minority groups, disregarding their rights and interests. A primary function of a constitution in a democratic society is to provide safeguards against this form of domination. Statement-wise Analysis - Statement 1 is Incorrect. The risk of tyranny of the majority is not exclusive to theocratic governments. It is a significant danger in democratic societies as well. In a democracy, without constitutional checks, the majority community can potentially oppress minority communities through the political process. - Statement 2 is Correct. Unchecked majority power can lead to inter-community domination. This can manifest in various forms, ranging from social exclusion and discrimination to severe coercion and violence, including the killing of religious minorities. - Statement 3 is Incorrect. The Indian Constitution explicitly contains provisions to prevent the tyranny of the majority. Fundamental Rights (Part III) are guaranteed to individuals to protect them against the State and the majority. Specifically, Articles 29 and 30 provide cultural and educational rights to minorities to preserve their distinct identity and protect them from domination. Key Takeaway Fundamental Rights in a democratic constitution serve two purposes: limiting the power of the government and preventing the tyranny of the majority over minorities.

Consider the following statements about the "tyranny of the majority":… - NCERT Class 8 Political Science MCQ

NCERT Class 8 Political Science — Chapter 2: Understanding Secularism

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Consider the following statements about the "tyranny of the majority":

It is a risk exclusively in countries with a theocratic government.
It can result in the coercion and killing of religious minorities.
The Indian Constitution lacks any provision to protect against this tyranny.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

NCERT textbook question

From NCERT Social & Political Life III · Page 3

Options

A1 only
B2 only
C1 and 3 only
D1, 2 and 3

Did you get this right?

Solution

The correct option is (b).

Explanation

The "tyranny of the majority" refers to a situation in which a dominant group uses its numerical advantage to impose its will on minority groups, disregarding their rights and interests. A primary function of a constitution in a democratic society is to provide safeguards against this form of domination.

Statement-wise Analysis

Statement 1 is Incorrect. The risk of tyranny of the majority is not exclusive to theocratic governments. It is a significant danger in democratic societies as well. In a democracy, without constitutional checks, the majority community can potentially oppress minority communities through the political process.
Statement 2 is Correct. Unchecked majority power can lead to inter-community domination. This can manifest in various forms, ranging from social exclusion and discrimination to severe coercion and violence, including the killing of religious minorities.
Statement 3 is Incorrect. The Indian Constitution explicitly contains provisions to prevent the tyranny of the majority. Fundamental Rights (Part III) are guaranteed to individuals to protect them against the State and the majority. Specifically, Articles 29 and 30 provide cultural and educational rights to minorities to preserve their distinct identity and protect them from domination.

Key Takeaway

Fundamental Rights in a democratic constitution serve two purposes: limiting the power of the government and preventing the tyranny of the majority over minorities.

Your note

More from Chapter 2: Understanding Secularism

Assertion (A): The US model of secularism prevents the State from intervening in the affairs of religion. Reason (R): The US Constitution allows the State to provide financial aid to religious institutions for educational purposes.

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In the context of Indian Secularism, the term "Principled Distance" implies that:

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Consider the following statement regarding the practice of secularism in the United States of America: "The legislature cannot declare any religion as the official religion. Nor can they give preference to one religion." This provision is primarily derived from which of the following?

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Consider the following statements regarding the "Pugri" (turban) in the context of Indian Secularism: 1. It is considered central to a Sikh's religious practice. 2. The Indian State forces Sikhs to remove it for security checks. 3. The State does not provide any exemption from wearing a helmet for Sikhs. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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With reference to the "Strategy of Distancing" employed by the Indian State, consider the following: 1. Government spaces like law courts are legally mandated to display religious symbols of the majority. 2. Government schools are prohibited from celebrating any religious festival. 3. This strategy implies that the State is not ruled by any religious group. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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