Q. Which one of the following statements best defines the term ‘Liberal Democracy’?

[A] It refers to a mixed economy with both public and private ownership, extensive welfare programs, and a commitment to reducing social and economic inequalities through democratic means.

[B] It refers to a political system where there are regular elections, but the electoral process is heavily manipulated or controlled by the ruling authorities to maintain their grip on power.

[C] It refers to a political system where the powers of the government are limited by constitutional principles and institutions, and there is a separation of powers among different branches of government.

[D] It refers to a political system where the executive branch is unified with the legislative branch.

Answer: C
Notes:

Explanation – Liberal democracy is a form of government that emphasizes individual rights, liberties, and the rule of law. It is characterized by a system of checks and balances among different branches of government, such as the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, to prevent any single branch from becoming too powerful. This separation of powers ensures that no individual or group can wield absolute authority, thus protecting citizens’ rights and promoting democratic values. Regular, free, and fair elections are another key feature of liberal democracies, allowing citizens to vote for their representatives in government and ensuring accountability. Additionally, liberal democracies uphold fundamental rights and freedoms, such as freedom of speech, religion, and assembly, which are often enshrined in a constitution.

Source: The Hindu

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