Question

Is voting alone enough to make a country democratic? Support your answer with examples from the chapter.

Answer 1

• No, voting alone is not enough to make a country democratic. Democracy also requires free and fair elections, the Rule of Law, protection of rights, public participation and accountability of elected representatives.
• For example, the chapter shows that Gram Sabhas and local self-government allow people to participate in decision-making even after elections. Democracy becomes meaningful when citizens can express their views, question the government and participate in governance.