Of all the definitions of democracy perhaps the best and most popular definition is the following: It is
called “the government of the people, by the people and for the people”.
Essential Elements of Democracy
1. Democracy is a form of government in which people’s participation is of primary importance.
2. People may participate either directly or indirectly.
3. It is a form of government in which people have equal opportunity and this type of government is
based on individual merit and no place of hereditary privilege is to be found in democracy.
4. Distribution of opportunities is adopted for reduction or removal of inequalities.
5. Democracy recognises that all the sections of the community will receive their due shares.
6. Interests of the minorities will be duly protected and state makes arrangements for that.
Characteristics of democracy are:
1) Elected representative : The people among themselves elect representatives who would govern
them.
2) Civil liberties : Civil liberties such as freedom of speech, expression, etc are provided to the
people.
3) Independent judiciary : The judiciary is free from the control of the executive and hence results in a
more democratic resolution of disputes.
4) Organised opposition party : An organised opposition party is an essential part of the democracy as
it keeps a check on the government.
5) Rule of law : Rule of law prevails in a democracy and no one is above the law. The law is supreme
and all citizens are equal in the eyes of the law
Features of Democracy in India
1. Popular Sovereignty: Democracy is based on sovereignty. People can exercise their power in
democracy. They elect their representatives. The government remains responsible to the common
mass for its every omission and commission.
2. Political Equality: Democracy is based on political equality. It means all citizens irrespective of
caste, creed, religion, race or sex are considered to be equal before law and enjoy equal political
rights. Political equality gives the right to vote to every citizen.
3. Majority Rules: In a democratic set-up actual government is carried out with the help of the party
which obtains the majority of votes. Support of majority is accepted by all.
4. Federal: It is another feature of Indian democracy. The Article 1 of Indian Constitution describes
India as a union of states. According to our Constitution, the states are autonomous. They have full
freedom in certain matters, and in some other matters they are dependent on centre.
