Chapter 5: Popular Struggles and Movements – Class 10 Civics Notes
The Class 10 chapter Popular Struggles and Movements teaches students how citizens influence democracy through movements, protests, and organized struggles. These are important aspects of people’s participation in democratic governance.
Importance of Popular Struggles
Civics Popular struggles are mass movements where people collectively demand justice, rights, or better policies. They play a vital role in making governments accountable and transparent. Examples include movements for independence, environmental protection, or social reforms.
In Nepal, the movement for democracy in 2006 aimed to end autocratic rule and establish constitutional democracy. Similarly, in Bolivia, people protested against the privatization of water, leading to the success of the Bolivia Water War. These examples show that when citizens unite peacefully, they can bring significant political changes.
Role of Pressure Groups and Movements
Pressure groups are organizations that influence government decisions without directly contesting elections. Examples include trade unions, farmers’ associations, and environmental groups. They express public opinion and help governments create better policies.
There are two types of movements:
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Sectional Interest Groups – represent specific sections like workers or farmers.
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Public Interest Groups – work for broader goals such as environmental conservation or human rights.
Movements like the Chipko Movement and Narmada Bachao Andolan show how people can participate in democracy beyond voting.
Democracy and Mobilization
Democratic governments allow citizens to voice their concerns through peaceful means like petitions, strikes, or rallies. However, excessive agitation can disrupt governance. Therefore, maintaining a balance between protest and dialogue is essential.
Popular struggles strengthen democracy by promoting civic awareness, transparency, and accountability. They remind the government that sovereignty ultimately lies with the people