TLDR;
This video by JKBOSE Wallah provides a comprehensive overview of the Power Sharing chapter in Civics, crucial for scoring five marks. It covers the introduction to power sharing, case studies of Belgium and Sri Lanka, majoritarianism, accommodation, and different forms of power sharing, emphasizing key points for exam preparation.
- Introduction to Power Sharing
- Case Studies: Belgium and Sri Lanka
- Majoritarianism vs. Accommodation
- Forms of Power Sharing
Introduction to Power Sharing [1:35]
The chapter begins with an introduction to power sharing, defining it as the distribution of powers among different entities. It asserts that the presence of power sharing indicates a democratic setup, essential for governance. Power sharing involves distributing powers among the organs of the government, levels of the government, different social groups, and political parties. This distribution prevents the concentration of power in a single authority, avoiding dictatorship and misuse of powers. The method of power sharing between state and center is called federalism, with India, Canada, and Australia as examples.
Case Studies: Belgium and Sri Lanka [16:48]
The video transitions to case studies of Belgium and Sri Lanka to illustrate different approaches to power sharing. Belgium, a small European country, has a complex ethnic composition with Dutch, French, and German-speaking communities. The capital, Brussels, presents a unique situation where the Dutch-speaking community is a minority, leading to tensions. In contrast, Sri Lanka, an island nation, has a majority Sinhalese community and a minority Tamil-speaking community, creating demographic divisions and potential conflicts.
Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka [1:50]
The video explains majoritarianism in Sri Lanka, where the Sinhalese community, being the majority, established dominance over the Tamil minority after independence in 1948. This dominance was enforced through the Official Language Act of 1956, which favored Sinhala as the official language, preferential policies favoring Sinhalese applicants in government jobs and education, and religious favoritism promoting Buddhism. These measures led to alienation and political discontent among the Tamil community, resulting in a civil war that ended in 2009 with significant human and economic costs.
Accommodation in Belgium [2:08]
Belgium addressed its ethnic tensions by adopting a proactive approach, amending its constitution four times to share powers among linguistic groups. This included equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking ministers in the central government, decentralization of powers to regional governments, and the establishment of a community government. Brussels, the capital, implemented equal representation for both French and Dutch communities. This proactive approach prevented partition and led to Brussels becoming the headquarters of the European Union.
Forms of Power Sharing [2:16]
The video discusses different forms of power sharing, including power sharing among different organs of the government (legislative, executive, and judiciary), levels of the government (Union, State, and Local), different social groups, and political parties. Power sharing among organs involves checks and balances to maintain a balance of power. Power sharing among levels involves federal division, as seen in India. Power sharing among social groups ensures fair representation and prevents alienation. Power sharing among political parties involves coalition governments to prevent power concentration.