Chapter 4: Key elements of a democratic government
These NCERT Class 6 Polity Chapter 4 notes explain how a democratic government works in real life through key elements like people’s participation, accountability, equality, justice, and protection of rights.
NCERT Class 6 Polity Chapter 4 – Key Elements of a Democratic Government helps students understand that democracy is not only about elections, but also about active citizens, responsible government, free media, and independent courts.
This chapter strengthens the foundation of Indian democracy and prepares learners for advanced topics related to Fundamental Rights, Constitution, and governance.
1. Meaning of democracy
- Democracy is a form of government where people elect their representatives
- The government works according to the will of the people
- People have the power to choose and change their leaders
- Democracy ensures freedom, equality, and justice
- Decisions are taken for public welfare
- India follows a democratic system
2. Key elements of a democratic government
- A democratic government is based on participation of people
- It follows the principle of accountability
- It ensures equality and justice for all citizens
- It protects the rights of the people
- All elements work together to strengthen democracy
- Absence of any element weakens democratic functioning
3. Participation of people
- People take part in decision-making
- Citizens participate through elections
- People express views in public discussions
- Voting is the most common form of participation
- Participation shows people’s control over government
- Active participation strengthens democracy
4. Accountability
- Accountability means the government is answerable to the people
- People can question government actions
- If government fails, people can change it through elections
- Accountability prevents misuse of power
- It keeps the government responsible and transparent
- Accountability is ensured through democratic processes
5. Equality and justice
- Equality means all citizens are equal before law
- No discrimination is allowed on basis of caste, religion, gender, or wealth
- Justice means fair treatment to everyone
- Laws protect the weak and poor
- Rich and poor are treated equally by law
- Equality and justice are pillars of democracy
6. Protection of rights
- Rights are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution
- These are known as Fundamental Rights
- They include the Right to Equality
- They include the Right to Freedom
- They protect citizens from exploitation
- Rights allow people to live with dignity
7. Case study: Public protest
- People protested against price rise
- Protests were also against lack of basic facilities
- Citizens used democratic methods
- Government was forced to respond
- Shows people can control government actions
- Demonstrates democracy in real life
8. Role of courts
- Courts protect the rights of citizens
- They ensure justice is delivered
- Courts check whether government follows the Constitution
- They stop illegal actions of the government
- Courts act as guardians of democracy
- Independent judiciary strengthens democracy
9. Important keywords
- Democracy: A system of government in which people elect their representatives
- Participation: Active involvement of people in democratic processes
- Accountability: Responsibility of the government to answer to the people
- Equality: Equal treatment of all citizens before law
- Justice: Fair and impartial treatment to everyone
- Rights: Legal guarantees that protect individual freedom
- Media: Means of communication that inform people and monitor government actions
10. Why this chapter is important
- Explains how democracy works in practice
- Helps understand people’s role in government
- Builds foundation for understanding the Constitution
- Prepares base for Fundamental Rights
- Strengthens polity understanding
- Very important for BPSC and State PCS foundation
Understanding NCERT Class 6 Polity Chapter 4 is important to know how citizens control the government and how democracy protects freedom and equality. The ideas discussed in Key Elements of a Democratic Government Class 6 help students link democracy with rights, justice, and accountability in Indian polity.
Continue reading NCERT Class 6 Polity Chapter 5 – Panchayati Raj to understand democracy at the grassroots level.
FAQs
Q1. What are the key elements of a democratic government?
Participation of people, accountability, equality and justice, and protection of rights.
Q2. What does participation mean in democracy?
It means people taking part in elections, discussions, and decision-making.
Q3. What is accountability in a democratic government?
It means the government is answerable to the people for its actions.
Q4. Why are equality and justice important in democracy?
They ensure fair treatment and equal protection of law for all citizens.
Q5. How do courts and media support democracy?
Courts protect rights and media keeps the government under public scrutiny.