Class 12 Political Science - TAMILNADU
Crisis of Democratic Order
The chapter 'Crisis of Democratic Order' explores one of the most turbulent periods in independent India's political history, focusing on the imposition of the Emergency in 1975 by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. For Tamil Nadu (Samacheer Kalvi) Class 12 students, this chapter is crucial as it examines the suspension of fundamental rights, press censorship, institutional conflicts between the judiciary and the executive, and the subsequent restoration of democracy through the 1977 general elections. Understanding this phase is essential for board exams to analyze the resilience of the Indian Constitution and the evolution of Indian democracy.
Start Learning FreeKey Concepts
The Emergency (1975)
A period of 21 months from June 1975 to March 1977 when a state of emergency was declared across India, citing internal disturbances, leading to centralized power and suspension of civil liberties.
Shah Commission
A commission appointed by the Janata Party government in 1977, headed by Justice J.C. Shah, to investigate the allegations of abuse of authority, malpractices, and excesses committed during the Emergency.
Press Censorship
Government-imposed restrictions on mass media during the Emergency, requiring prior approval from authorities before publishing any news or articles.
Jaya Prakash Narayan (JP Movement)
A leader who spearheaded the 'Total Revolution' movement against corruption and misrule, uniting opposition parties against the Congress government prior to the Emergency.
The 1977 Election
The landmark general election where the newly formed Janata Party defeated the Congress, marking the first time a non-Congress government came to power at the Centre.
Important Formulas
Board Exam Info
In Tamil Nadu (Samacheer Kalvi) Class 12 Political Science board exams, this chapter typically carries around 8 to 12 marks. Questions frequently include 1-mark objective queries, 3-mark short answers on causes or consequences of the Emergency, and 5-mark essay questions detailing the lessons learned or the impact on Indian democracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the Emergency declared in 1975?
It was declared citing 'internal disturbances' amidst severe economic crisis, student protests, nationwide railway strikes, and political pressure following the Allahabad High Court verdict against Indira Gandhi.
What were the major consequences of the Emergency?
Key consequences included the suspension of fundamental rights, censorship of the press, arrest of opposition leaders, forced sterilizations under family planning, and eventual loss of power by the Congress in 1977.
What is meant by 'Total Revolution'?
It was a movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan aimed at social, economic, and political transformation of society, fighting corruption, unemployment, and demanding radical democratic reforms.
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