Question

Which of these is a provision that a democratic constitution does not have?
A. Powers of the head of the state
B. Name of the head of the state
C. Powers of the legislature
D. Name of the country

Answer 1

Hint: A democracy is the government of the people, for the people and by the people. The constitution is the preface of the working of any nation.

Complete answer: The prevalent view of democracy is that it is majority rule. However, the constitution of any nation makes sure that it enlists provisions pertaining to the minorities as well. This creates a safe and reduces majoritarianism. It protects minority rights, e.g. freedom of speech, or freedom of religion etc. The constitution of democracy has all the norms and procedures by which a nation runs smoothly.

Looking at the options given:
Option A- Any democratic constitution lists the powers of the head of the state. Look at the context of India, the powers of the President and the Prime Minister are mentioned in the constitution.
Option B- No democratic constitution would mention the name of the head of the state largely because they keep on changing. People elect new leaders after a fixed tenure.
Option C- Powers of the legislature are very well mentioned in any democratic constitution. This guides the government with the decision making process.
Option D- Name of the country is always mentioned in its constitution.

Option “B” is the correct answer.

Note: It took almost 2 years 11 months and 17days for India to finally come up with its constitution. The Drafting Committee was chaired by Dr B.R Ambedkar, who is also known as “the father of the Indian Constitution”. The Indian Constitution is the longest constitution of the world.