Class 12 Political Science - ODISHA
Crisis of Democratic Order
The chapter 'Crisis of Democratic Order' in Class 12 Political Science explores the most turbulent phase in independent India's political history. It examines the background leading to the declaration of a nationwide Emergency in 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, including economic hardships, student agitations like the Bihar and Gujarat movements, and judicial conflicts. The chapter highlights the suspension of fundamental rights, press censorship, and institutional clashes between the executive and the judiciary. Finally, it analyzes the lessons learned, the restoration of democracy through the 1977 elections, and why safeguarding democratic norms is essential for India.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
National Emergency (1975)
Declared on June 25, 1975, under Article 352 on the grounds of internal disturbance, leading to suspension of fundamental rights and detention of opposition leaders.
Bihar and Gujarat Movements
Student-led protests in 1974 against rising prices, food scarcity, and corruption that later evolved into a broader political movement spearheaded by Jayaprakash Narayan.
Total Revolution
A call given by Jayaprakash Narayan for social, economic, and political transformation to establish true democracy and cleanse the political system.
Shah Commission
A commission appointed by the Janata Party government in 1977 to investigate the abuses of power, excesses, and arbitrary arrests committed during the Emergency.
The 1977 General Elections
A historic election where the Congress party was defeated for the first time at the center, and the Janata Party came to power, proving the resilience of Indian democracy.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In the Odisha (BSE/CHSE) Class 12 Political Science board exams, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently include very short answer (1 mark), short notes (2-3 marks), and long-answer descriptive questions (7 marks) focusing on the causes of the Emergency, its consequences, and lessons learned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the main reasons for declaring the Emergency in 1975?
Key reasons included severe economic crises, drought, rising inflation, massive student protests in Gujarat and Bihar led by JP Narayan, and the Allahabad High Court ruling invalidating Indira Gandhi's election.
What major changes occurred during the Emergency period?
Fundamental rights of citizens were suspended, press censorship was imposed, major opposition leaders were jailed without trial, and controversial constitutional amendments like the 42nd Amendment were passed.
Why is the 1977 election considered a turning point in Indian politics?
It marked the end of thirty years of single-party Congress dominance at the Centre and proved that Indian citizens deeply value and protect their democratic rights through the ballot box.
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