Citizens participate in governance directly or through representatives
Explanation
The term Democracy is derived from the Greek words 'demos' (people) and 'kratos' (rule). It signifies a political system where the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them either directly or indirectly.
- Every citizen must directly vote on every law is incorrect: This describes a specific mechanism of direct democracy (like a referendum). In large modern states, it is logistically impossible for every citizen to vote on every law. Therefore, this is not the primary or exclusive implication of democracy.
- Citizens participate in governance directly or through representatives is correct: The principle of "rule by the people" implies popular sovereignty. This is realized when citizens participate in governance either directly (as in ancient Greece or Swiss cantons) or through elected representatives (indirect democracy), as is the case in India. The Preamble to the Indian Constitution envisages a democratic polity based on this doctrine.
- The government has limited administrative powers is incorrect: While constitutional democracies typically feature limited government to protect rights, the phrase "rule by the people" specifically refers to the source of authority rather than the scope of administrative power.
- Legal compliance is voluntary for citizens is incorrect: Democracy functions on the Rule of Law. Laws enacted by the people or their representatives are binding, and compliance is mandatory, not voluntary.
Key Takeaway: Democracy is defined by the locus of sovereignty, which rests with the people, allowing them to govern themselves either directly or through a representative system.