✓ Board-verified
Social Science · 2026 · 4 marks
CBSE 2026 · Region 5 · Set 3 · Q28
Read the given source carefully and answer the questions that follow : The idea of power-sharing has emerged in opposition to the notions of undivided political power. For a long time, it was believed that all power of a government must reside in one person or group of persons located at one place. It was felt that if the power to decide is dispersed, it would not be possible to take quick decisions and to enforce them. But these notions have changed with the emergence of democracy. One basic principle of democracy is that people are the source of all political power. In a democracy, people rule themselves through institutions of self- government. In a good democratic government, due respect is given to diverse groups and views that exist in a society. Everyone has a voice in the shaping of public policies. Therefore, it follows that in a democracy, political power should be distributed among as many citizens as possible. ($\displaystyle 28.1$) How does power sharing promote stability of political order ? ($\displaystyle 28.2$) How are pressure groups part of the power sharing mechanism ? ($\displaystyle 28.3$) How does power sharing contribute to the spirit of democracy ?
Marking-scheme solution
$\displaystyle 28.1$ How does power sharing promote stability of political order? $\displaystyle 1$
(i) Through power sharing people directly participate in the political system. This gives legitimacy and stability to the government.
(ii) Due respect is given to diverse groups and views that exist in society by reducing the possibility of conflicts and violence. This ensures political stability.
(iii) Power sharing gives everyone a voice in shaping public policies. Thus, it ensures stability of political order.
$\displaystyle 28.2$ How are pressure groups part of the power sharing mechanism? $\displaystyle 1$
(i) In a democracy, there are interest groups, such as those of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers and industrial workers. These groups influence the policies of the government.
(ii) They also participate in governmental committees and also influence the decision-making process.
$\displaystyle 28.3$ How does power sharing contribute to the spirit of democracy? $\displaystyle 2$
(i) Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy.
(ii) A democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, and who have to live with its effects.
(iii) Power sharing gives legitimacy to the government and a legitimate government is one where citizens through participation, acquires a stake in the system.
(iv) Power sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Since social conflict often leads to violence and political instability, power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order.
(v) Power sharing ensures citizens’ direct participation in government, gives everyone a voice in shaping public opinion and thus prevents tyranny of the majority.
(A) Private Sector
More from Power-sharing
- Why did the feeling of alienation increase among the Sri Lankan Tamils in 1956? Explain.2023 · asked 3×
- Two statements are given below. They are Assertion and Reason (R). Read both the statements carefully and…2026 · asked 3×
- Identify the correct statement regarding Belgium.2026 · asked 3×
- Which of the following group is in majority in Sri Lanka?2025 · asked 3×
- What percentage of the population of Belgium lives in the Flemish region?2023 · asked 3×
- Which one of the following organisations has its headquarter in Brussels?2025 · asked 3×
- "The law enacted in 1956 and other Constitutional Provisions led to major conflict between the two…2025 · asked 3×
- Compare the Belgian model and the Sri Lankan model of power sharing. OR Why is power sharing necessary in a…2026 · asked 3×
CBSE Class 10 Social Science past-paper question from the 2026board exam, with the answer as CBSE’s own marking scheme gives it. Where our answers come from.