Question

Explain the rationale for minority representation in the legislature.

Answer 1

Minority representation means the representation in legislature of all minorities in accordance with their actual strength. It aims at giving representation to all minorities as nearly as possible in proportion to their strength in the population. The liberal democratic states, while accepting the principle of equal rights of all citizens, have to give special representation to minorities in order to correct the evil effects of the majority system and ensure due representation to all sections of society.

The rationale is based on the fact that:

1. Equal representation: In all liberal democratic states, equality and political justice demand that all sections of society, including minorities, must be adequately represented.
2. Correcting unreal majorities: The majority system often results in the election of a person who is not supported by a real majority of the voters and prevents the election of minority candidates who do not win a majority in any single constituency.
3. Political integration: The aim is to integrate the minorities into the mainstream and give them an effective voice in the functioning of the government.
4. Strengthening democracy: Democracy demands the representation of all interests. Without this, democracy will remain defective and weak.