Welcome to our definitive guide: “Power Sharing Notes Class 10th – Unlocking Success.” If you’re a Class 10th student striving for academic excellence, understanding the intricacies of power sharing is paramount. Mastering this essential topic not only enriches your knowledge of political science but also cultivates your sense of responsibility as an informed citizen.

Within this article, we have curated a comprehensive set of power sharing notes exclusively designed to cater to the needs of Class 10th students. Crafted by subject matter experts, these notes offer a clear and concise grasp of the subject matter. Whether you’re preparing for exams or seeking a deeper understanding, these notes will become your ultimate study companion.

In this article, we will delve into the intriguing narratives of Belgium and Sri Lanka, exploring their unique stories. We’ll also examine the concept of Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka, shedding light on its implications. Additionally, we’ll explore the reasons why power sharing is considered desirable and the various forms it can take. Get ready to embark on a captivating journey through the histories of Belgium and Sri Lanka, while gaining valuable insights into the significance of power sharing in governance.

Important terms Used in Power Sharing Notes Class 10th

Definition of Power Sharing

Power sharing refers to a mutually agreed-upon policy between political parties or within a coalition to collectively shoulder responsibility for decision-making and political actions.

The significance of power sharing becomes evident when it is practiced among the three organs of the state, namely the Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. Such an arrangement is vital for ensuring the proper functioning of a democratic system.

Ethnic

An ethnic group is formed through a social division based on a shared culture. Its members believe in a common descent, either due to similarities in physical characteristics, cultural practices, or both. It is important to note that members of an ethnic group may not necessarily share the same religion or nationality.

Community Government

Community government is a decentralized governance system in linguistically diverse countries. It allows linguistic or cultural groups to have autonomy over cultural, educational, and language-related matters. For example, in Belgium, separate community governments represent Dutch-speaking, French-speaking, and German-speaking communities, promoting their unique interests while contributing to national unity. These governments work alongside central and regional authorities, ensuring a balance between local autonomy and national cohesion.

Majoritarianism

Majoritarianism refers to the ideology that grants the majority community the unrestricted power to govern a country as it pleases, even if it means neglecting the desires and interests of the minority groups. For instance, Sri Lanka adopted a majoritarian approach, where the majority Sinhala community holds authority over the governance of the country.

Civil War

Civil war is a type of armed conflict that occurs within the borders of a single country or state, usually between different factions or groups within the same nation. Unlike international wars, civil wars are internal conflicts where the parties involved are from the same country. The reasons for civil wars can vary and may include political, ethnic, religious, or economic factors, among others.

Power Sharing Notes Class 10th

Story of Belgium

Belgium, a compact federal state located in Western Europe, possesses a land area smaller than the Indian state of Haryana. The country’s population comprises a diverse and intricate ethnic composition. Situated at a strategic geographical position, Belgium shares its borders with neighboring countries, including the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Luxembourg.

In Belgium, there existed a minority French-speaking community (40%) that held considerable wealth and influence, while the Dutch-speaking community (59%) experienced delayed access to development and education. The capital city of Belgium is Brussels, where 80% of the population speaks French, while the remaining 20% speaks Dutch. Within this dynamic, the minority French-speaking community enjoyed relative affluence and power.

Accommodation in Belgium

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is predominantly occupied by French-speaking residents. Over time, power has predominantly rested in the hands of the French-speaking population, granting them advantages in terms of economic development and education.

As a result, the French-speaking community exhibited higher levels of education and qualification, with access to greater resources compared to the native Dutch population. Additionally, the French-speaking individuals formed a well-established aristocracy of tradespeople, contributing to their financial strength and influence in the region.

During the 1950s and 1960s, the social disparities between the Dutch-speaking and French-speaking communities gave rise to tensions.

Causes of Conflict in Belgium

The French-speaking minority community enjoyed relative wealth and influence, which caused resentment among the Dutch-speaking community. The latter received the benefits of economic development and education at a later stage, leading to tensions between the two language groups.

Steps taken to Remove Tensions in Belgium

The central government consists of an equal number of Dutch and French-speaking ministers. State governments hold extensive powers and are not subordinate to the central government.

In Brussels, a separate government operates with equal representation for both language communities. Additionally, a “community government” is elected by each particular language-speaking community, which holds authority over cultural, educational, and language-related matters.

Concept of ‘Community government’ of Belgium

The concept of ‘Community government’ in Belgium refers to a form of decentralized governance that recognizes the linguistic and cultural diversity within the country. Belgium is composed of distinct linguistic communities, primarily Dutch-speaking (Flemish), French-speaking (Walloon), and German-speaking.

To address the interests and needs of these communities, separate ‘Community governments’ were established. Each community government has authority over cultural, educational, and language-related matters for its respective linguistic group, empowering them to promote and preserve their unique identity while contributing to the overall unity of Belgium.

Power Sharing Notes Class 10th

Story of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, officially known as the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, is an island country situated in South Asia. It is located in the Indian Ocean, to the southwest of the Bay of Bengal and to the southeast of the Arabian Sea. The island is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty.

Colombo serves as the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka. The country boasts a fascinating heritage, with ancient cities, temples, and historical sites, as well as breathtaking landscapes, including tropical beaches, lush forests, and tea plantations. Sri Lanka is a popular destination for tourists seeking a blend of cultural exploration and natural wonders.

In Sri Lanka, the major social groups are comprised of Sinhala speakers (74%) and Tamil speakers (18%). The Tamil community further divides into two subgroups: “Sri Lankan Tamils” and “Indian Tamils.” For a visual representation of the population distribution of these diverse communities, please refer to the map below.

Sri Lankan Tamils

The Tamil natives of Sri Lanka are known as Sri Lankan Tamils, comprising 13% of the population and primarily residing in the Northern and Eastern regions of the country. The majority of Sinhala speakers follow Buddhism, whereas most Tamils practice Hinduism or Islam.

Indian Tamils

Indian Tamils in Sri Lanka refer to Tamil individuals whose ancestors migrated from India as plantation workers during the colonial era and settled in the country. They make up approximately 5% of the population.

Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka

The Sinhala community in Sri Lanka held dominance over the minority Tamil population and implemented majoritarian policies.

In 1956, an Act was passed, declaring Sinhala as the sole official language. The government also adopted preferential policies that favored Sinhala applicants for university positions and government employment.

Additionally, the state protected and promoted Buddhism, further exacerbating the sense of alienation among Sri Lankan Tamils. Over time, these measures contributed to a growing feeling of marginalization among the Tamil community.

The Sri Lankan Tamils voiced their demands for regional autonomy, equal opportunities in education and employment, and recognition of Tamil as an official language.

However, their pleas were consistently rejected, leading to the rise of various political organizations like the LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam). As tensions escalated, the situation eventually escalated into a full-fledged civil war during the 1980s.

Factors Led to A Civil War in Sri Lanka

The civil war in Sri Lanka was a complex and multi-faceted conflict with various factors contributing to its outbreak. Some of the key factors that led to the civil war include:

1. Ethnic and Linguistic Tensions: Deep-rooted ethnic and linguistic divisions between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority communities fueled tensions and grievances.
2. Discriminatory Policies: The implementation of policies favoring the Sinhala community in areas such as language, education, and employment created a sense of marginalization and inequality among the Tamil population.
3. Regional Autonomy Demand: The Sri Lankan Tamils demanded greater autonomy and recognition of their distinct cultural identity, which was met with resistance and denial by the government.
4. Insurgency and Militancy: The formation of militant groups, such as the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), emerged in response to perceived injustices and sought to achieve Tamil separatism through armed struggle.
5. Failed Negotiations: Repeated failure of negotiations between the government and Tamil representatives to address the root issues and find a peaceful resolution contributed to the escalation of the conflict.
6. International Involvement: The involvement of external actors and support to various parties in the conflict further complicated the situation and prolonged the war.
7. Escalating Violence: Escalation of violence and atrocities committed by both sides deepened animosity and further polarized communities.

Overall, the combination of historical grievances, discriminatory policies, political complexities, and armed resistance culminated in a prolonged and devastating civil war in Sri Lanka that lasted for decades.

Form of Power Sharing in Class 10th Political Science

You might have thought that sharing power means dividing it, which could weaken the country. Many people used to believe this in the past. They thought that all the power of the government should be in the hands of one person or a group in one place. This way, they believed, decisions could be made quickly and enforced effectively. However, things have changed with the rise of democracy!

In a democratic system, the people themselves have the power. We rule ourselves through self-governing institutions. Every single one of us has a say in shaping the policies that affect our lives. That’s what makes democracy special! So, in a democratic country, it’s important to distribute political power among all citizens. This way, everyone gets to participate and have a say in how the country is run. It’s about fairness, representation, and making sure everyone’s voice is heard.

Remember, democracy is all about inclusivity and making sure that each of us has a part in shaping our nation’s future. By sharing power among citizens, we create a stronger and more united country, where everyone’s rights and perspectives matter. So, let’s embrace democracy and celebrate the power we all have as citizens to create a better and more inclusive society!

Power Sharing Notes Class 10th Political Science

1. Power is shared among different organs of government, such as the legislature, executive and judiciary

We call this type of power distribution “horizontal distribution” because it allows different branches of the government, placed at the same level, to have distinct powers. This separation ensures that no single branch can have absolute power. Instead, each branch acts as a check on the others, creating a system of checks and balances. This arrangement promotes accountability and prevents any one branch from becoming too dominant, safeguarding the rights and interests of the people.

2. Power can be shared among governments at different levels

In this system, there is a central government that governs the entire country, alongside governments at the provincial or regional level, collectively known as the federal government. This arrangement allows for a division of responsibilities and authority between the central and regional authorities, ensuring effective governance at both levels. The federal government is responsible for matters that affect the entire nation. While provincial or regional governments handle issues specific to their respective areas, catering to the diverse needs of different regions within the country.

3. Power shared among different social groups

This type of arrangement is designed to provide representation and participation in the government. Also, administration for diverse social groups that might otherwise feel marginalized and excluded. It aims to give minority communities a fair share of power and influence in decision-making processes. An example of this approach can be seen in India, where reserved constituencies exist in the assemblies and Parliament.

Another excellent example of this type of power-sharing is the Community Government system in Belgium. This arrangement empowers linguistic and cultural communities, granting them autonomy over specific matters related to their identity and heritage. By fostering inclusivity and acknowledging the diversity of its population, Belgium promotes unity and ensures the equitable distribution of power among its communities.

4. Power shared among political parties, pressure groups and moments

In a democracy, citizens have the freedom to choose from a range of contenders vying for power. This competition is vital as it prevents power from becoming concentrated in the hands of a single entity. Over time, power is shared among diverse political parties, each representing distinct ideologies and social groups. This form of government is known as a “Coalition Government.”

Moreover, various interest groups, such as traders, businessmen, farmers, and industrial workers, also have a stake in governmental power. They participate in the decision-making process and exert influence, ensuring that the government considers a wide array of perspectives and interests.

In essence, democracy thrives on the principles of inclusivity and power-sharing, granting citizens a voice in shaping their nation’s future and fostering a dynamic and responsive governance system.

What do we learn from the two stories of Belgium and Srilanka?

The stories of Belgium and Sri Lanka offer essential lessons in governance and managing diversity. Belgium’s power-sharing model, with federalism allowing linguistic communities to have regional autonomy, has fostered social cohesion and political stability. By recognizing and respecting the unique identities of different communities, Belgium has strengthened national unity.

In contrast, Sri Lanka’s experience warns against the perils of majoritarianism. The dominance of the Sinhala community over the Tamil minority, coupled with discriminatory policies, led to tensions and alienation among Sri Lankan Tamils. This resulted in a prolonged civil war, emphasizing the need for equitable power-sharing and respect for the rights of all communities.

Both stories underscore the significance of cultural recognition. Embracing diverse identities promotes stronger social bonds and national pride, while denying linguistic and cultural rights can fuel division and grievances.

Peaceful resolution emerges as a crucial aspect of conflict management. Open dialogue, negotiation, and compromise are essential in addressing grievances and finding lasting solutions. International involvement can also facilitate peace-building efforts.

In conclusion, the stories of Belgium and Sri Lanka highlight the value of power sharing, inclusivity, and respect for cultural identities in governance. By learning from these experiences, societies can strive towards building inclusive and harmonious nations, where citizens’ rights are upheld, and conflicts are resolved through peaceful means. Emphasizing the importance of cultural recognition and dialogue can pave the way for a more united and stable future.

Summery of Power Sharing Notes Class 10th

In Power sharing notes class 10th article we have read about Belgium and Sri Lanka. Belgium, a compact federal state in Western Europe, exemplifies the strength of inclusive governance despite its small land area. Its diverse ethnic composition and strategic geographical location near neighboring countries like the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Luxembourg underscore its significance.

Within Belgium, the imbalance between the French-speaking minority (40%) enjoying wealth and influence and the Dutch-speaking community (59%) facing development and education challenges led to tensions. To address these disparities, Belgium adopted power-sharing measures. The central government ensured equal representation of Dutch and French-speaking ministers, while state governments gained autonomy from the central authority. Brussels, with its mixed linguistic population, had a separate government to cater to both communities. Additionally, a unique “community government” granted linguistic autonomy, preserving identities while promoting national unity.

In contrast, Sri Lanka’s history serves as a cautionary tale of majoritarianism. The dominance of the Sinhala community over the Tamil minority and preferential policies led to alienation and a civil war. Both stories offer crucial lessons on governance and diversity management. Which emphasizing the value of power sharing for inclusivity, accountability, and citizen participation in decision-making. Through equitable distribution of power among various entities, societies can build harmonious nations, respecting diverse identities and resolving conflicts peacefully. Power sharing remains the key to creating a united and stable future where every citizen’s voice shapes the country’s destiny.

Read Also:

• Class 10th Political Parties Notes of NCERT Civics Chapter 4
• Outcomes of Democracy Class 10 Notes of NCERT Civics Ch. 7

Frequently Asked Question – FAQ on Power Sharing Notes Class 10th

Q 1. What kind of power sharing problems were faced by Belgians and Sri Lankans?

The Belgians faced power sharing problems related to linguistic and cultural diversity. The country is divided between Dutch-speaking (Flemish) and French-speaking (Walloon) communities. Each of them were seeking recognition and representation. Struggles for regional autonomy, language rights, and fair representation in government posed significant challenges.

Similarly, Sri Lanka encountered power sharing issues primarily centered around ethnic tensions. The conflict arose between the Sinhalese majority and Tamil minority communities, demanding equality, regional autonomy, and recognition of their cultural identity. The denial of these demands led to prolonged civil strife and violence, highlighting the complexities of power sharing in a diverse society.

Q 2. Why power sharing is desirable?

Power sharing is desirable because it prevents the concentration of power. It reducing the risk of tyranny and abuse. It fosters social stability by accommodating diverse interests and ensuring representation of various communities in decision-making.

Power sharing mechanisms, like checks and balances, promote accountability and prevent the dominance of any single authority. It can also resolve conflicts and promote reconciliation in divided societies.

Encouraging cooperation and compromise, power sharing enhances the legitimacy of the government and fosters inclusivity, making it an essential aspect of democratic governance.

Q 3. What are the system various democratic rules?

In a democratic system, various rules are crucial for ensuring fair and effective governance. These include the rule of law, which holds everyone accountable to the law.

The separation of powers, dividing authority among different branches to prevent concentration of power. Checks and balances, enabling each branch to limit the powers of others.

Freedom of speech and expression; freedom of the press; protection of minority rights; and respect for human rights. These democratic principles collectively promote transparency, accountability, inclusivity, and protection of individual liberties within the framework of democratic governance.