The correct option is (a).
Explanation
Democracy is a form of government in which supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or through elected agents under a free electoral system. It stands in contrast to monarchies and dictatorships regarding the source of legitimacy and accountability.1. Statement 1 is Correct:
In a democracy, the source of authority is the people (popular sovereignty). Citizens grant power to the government through the process of regular, free, and fair elections. This ensures that the government is based on the consent of the governed.
2. Statement 2 is Incorrect:
Accountability is a cornerstone of democracy. The government is answerable to the people and the legislature for its actions, policies, and decisions. It is not constitutionally exempt from explaining its conduct; rather, transparency and answerability are mandated through various constitutional checks and balances.
3. Statement 3 is Incorrect:
In a democracy, the final decision-making power must rest with those elected by the people. A system where unelected military officials automatically form the government or hold supreme power is classified as a military dictatorship or junta, not a democracy.
Key Takeaway:
Democracy is fundamentally defined by the election of rulers by the people and the accountability of the government to the citizenry. Regimes controlled by unelected officials or the military do not qualify as democracies.