(A) "Democracies lead to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens." Examine the statement.

(i) It is necessary to understand that democracy is not simply rule by majority opinion.

(ii) The majority always needs to work with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view. Majority and minority opinions are not permanent.

(iii) It is also necessary that rule by majority does not become rule by majority community only.

(iv) Democracy remains democracy only as long as every citizen has a chance of being in majority at some point of time.

(v) If someone is barred from being in majority on the basis of birth, then the democratic rule ceases to be accommodative for that person or group.

(vi) The majority always needs to work with the minority so that governments function to represent the general view.

(vii) Democracy ensures that all citizens have a chance to participate and be represented, leading to peaceful and harmonious life among citizens.

(B) “Democracy is based on the idea of deliberations and negotiations.” Examine the statement.

(i) In a democracy, the main concern is to ensure that citizens have the right to elect their rulers and that the rulers remain accountable to the people.

(ii) Citizens should have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and the community as a whole.

(iii) A democratic government takes more time to make decisions because it must follow proper procedures and consult multiple stakeholders before finalising any action.

(iv) Democracy ensures that decisions-making will be based on established norms and procedures.

(v) A citizen who wants to know whether a decision was made following the correct procedures has the right and the means to examine the decision-making process.

(vi) A democratic government creates ways for citizens to hold it accountable and provides opportunities for them to participate in decision-making whenever they wish.

(vii) Democracies have been more successful in conducting regular and free elections and in creating conditions for open public discussion and debate.