Class 12 Political Science - MAHARASHTRA
Crisis of Democratic Order
The chapter 'Crisis of Democratic Order' in Maharashtra State Board (MSBSHSE) Class 12 Political Science explores one of the most turbulent phases in independent India's history: the declaration of the National Emergency in 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. It examines the socio-economic context, political conflicts between the judiciary and the executive, institutional disruptions, and the suspension of fundamental rights. Students learn about the lessons learned regarding the resilience of Indian democracy, the rise of extra-institutional politics, and the restoration of the democratic process through the 1977 general elections, making it vital for board exams.
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Declaration of Emergency (1975)
On June 25, 1975, the Government of India declared a state of internal emergency under Article 352, citing threats to national security, which led to widespread suspension of fundamental rights and press censorship.
Background and Causes of Emergency
Economic crises like high inflation and unemployment, combined with massive student protests in Gujarat and Bihar led by Jayaprakash Narayan (JP), created intense political pressure against Indira Gandhi's government.
Judicial Conflicts
Tensions between the Parliament and the Supreme Court peaked over issues of parliamentary supremacy, fundamental rights, and the appointment of judges, culminating in controversial supersessions.
J.P. Movement and Total Revolution
Jayaprakash Narayan called for a 'Sampoorna Kranti' (Total Revolution) against corruption and misrule, uniting opposition parties under a single anti-Congress umbrella.
Lessons of the Emergency
The Emergency period highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions, leading to vital safeguards like the 44th Amendment and reinforcing the strength of India's electorate in the 1977 elections.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Maharashtra (MSBSHSE) Class 12 Political Science board exam, this chapter typically carries around 6 to 8 marks. Questions frequently appear as short notes, cause-and-effect explanations, and opinion-based questions regarding the impact of the Emergency on Indian democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Emergency declared in 1975?
It was declared due to severe internal disturbances, ongoing economic challenges, widespread agitations led by opposition leaders like Jayaprakash Narayan, and political tensions following the Allahabad High Court verdict against Indira Gandhi.
What were the major consequences of the 1975 Emergency?
Major consequences included the suspension of fundamental rights, press censorship, arrest of opposition leaders, forced sterilizations, and ultimately a backlash from citizens resulting in the defeat of the ruling party in the 1977 elections.
What is the significance of the 1977 elections in this chapter?
The 1977 elections marked the first time the Congress party lost power at the Centre, proving the maturity of the Indian electorate and restoring democratic norms through the formation of the Janata Party government.
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