Power Sharing
सत्ता की साझेदारी
📘 RBSE Board
📗 CBSE Board
📙 Class 10 Political Science
⭐ Board Exam 2026
📌 Chapter at a Glance
| Chapter Name | Power Sharing |
|---|---|
| Hindi Name | सत्ता की साझेदारी |
| Subject | Political Science (Civics) |
| Class | 10th |
| Board | RBSE / CBSE |
| Key Case Studies | Belgium 🇧🇪 & Sri Lanka 🇱🇰 |
| Board Weightage | 4-5 Marks |
| Question Types | MCQ, Short, Long Answer |
| Important Topics | Majoritarianism, Forms of Power Sharing, Community Government |
| Exam Year | 2026 |
Power Sharing is one of the most fundamental concepts in democratic governance. In simple terms, power sharing means the distribution of power among different organs, levels, and social groups of the government. This chapter explains why power sharing is essential for democracy and what happens when power is concentrated in the hands of one group (majoritarianism).
The chapter uses two contrasting case studies — Belgium (a successful example of power sharing) and Sri Lanka (a failed example due to majoritarianism) — to illustrate the importance of accommodating diverse communities in a democracy.
Understanding power sharing is crucial for students because it forms the foundation for understanding federalism, democratic governance, and conflict resolution in diverse societies like India.
📋 Table of Contents
1. What is Power Sharing?
📖 Definition
Power Sharing is the distribution of power among different organs of government (legislature, executive, judiciary), different levels of government (central, state, local), different social groups, and different political parties.
In a democracy, power does not remain in one hand. If power is concentrated in one person or one group, it becomes a dictatorship or tyranny. Therefore, power must be shared among various stakeholders to ensure:
- ✅ No single group dominates others
- ✅ Different opinions and interests are respected
- ✅ Conflicts are resolved peacefully
- ✅ Citizens have a say in governance
- ✅ Government remains accountable to people
💡 Did You Know?
The word "Democracy" comes from Greek words 'Demos' (people) + 'Kratia' (rule) = Rule by the People. Power sharing is the practical way to achieve this ideal!
2. 🇧🇪 Case Study 1: Belgium
2.1 About Belgium
Belgium is a small country in Europe with a population of over 1 crore (10 million). Despite its small size, Belgium has a complex ethnic composition with three major linguistic communities living together.
2.2 Ethnic Composition of Belgium
| Community | Percentage | Region | Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dutch Speaking (Flemish) | 59% | Flemish Region (North) | Dutch (Flemish) |
| French Speaking | 40% | Wallonia Region (South) | French |
| German Speaking | 1% | Eastern Border | German |
2.3 The Brussels Problem
⚠️ Tension Point: Brussels
- Brussels is the capital city of Belgium
- 80% French speaking + 20% Dutch speaking in Brussels
- Dutch speakers were majority in the country but minority in the capital
- French speaking minority was richer and more powerful
- This created resentment among Dutch speakers
- Risk of conflict between communities
2.4 ✅ Belgium's Solution: The Power Sharing Model
Instead of imposing the majority's will on minorities, Belgium chose the path of accommodation and power sharing. Between 1970 and 1993, the Belgian Constitution was amended FOUR times to work out an arrangement that would satisfy all communities.
🏛️ Four Elements of Belgian Power Sharing Model
| # | Element | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Equal Central Government | Dutch and French speaking ministers are equal in number in the central government (50-50%). No single community can dominate. |
| 2 | Powerful State Governments | State governments are not subordinate to the central government. They have more powers than central government on many matters. |
| 3 | Separate Brussels Government | Brussels has a separate government in which both communities have equal representation, even though French speakers are majority. |
| 4 | Community Government | A third type of government called Community Government is elected by people of one language community (Dutch, French, or German). It has power over cultural, educational, and language-related issues. |
📝 What is Community Government?
Community Government is a unique innovation of Belgium. It is a government elected by people belonging to one language community — Dutch, French, or German speaking — no matter where they live. This government has the power over:
- Cultural matters
- Educational policies
- Language-related issues
This solved a unique problem: how to give representation to people of a community who live in different regions.
🎯 Result of Belgian Model
Belgium's power sharing arrangement has been remarkably successful. The country avoided the ethnic conflict that might have torn it apart, and today Belgium is a prosperous, peaceful, and united nation that hosts the headquarters of the European Union.
3. 🇱🇰 Case Study 2: Sri Lanka
3.1 About Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an island nation in South Asia, located south of India. It gained independence from Britain in 1948. Like Belgium, Sri Lanka also has diverse ethnic communities, but it chose a very different path — majoritarianism.
3.2 Ethnic Composition of Sri Lanka
| Community | Percentage | Religion | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sinhala (Majority) | 74% | Buddhist | Native to Sri Lanka |
| Sri Lankan Tamils | 13% | Hindu | Native to Sri Lanka (North & East) |
| Indian Tamils | 5% | Hindu | Brought from India during British rule for plantation work |
| Others (Muslims, Christians) | 8% | Islam, Christianity | Various origins |
3.3 What is Majoritarianism?
⚠️ Definition of Majoritarianism
Majoritarianism is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority.
This is the opposite of power sharing. In majoritarianism, the majority doesn't share power with minorities but imposes its dominance over them.
3.4 Majoritarian Policies in Sri Lanka (After 1956)
After independence in 1948, the Sinhala majority (74%) sought to dominate the government by imposing their preferences on the Tamil minority. The democratically elected government adopted a series of majoritarian measures:
| Year | Majoritarian Policy | Impact on Tamils |
|---|---|---|
| 1956 | Sinhala Only Act: Sinhala declared as the only official language, disregarding Tamil | Tamils couldn't work in government without learning Sinhala |
| 1956+ | Government Jobs: Preferential treatment for Sinhala applicants in public sector jobs | Tamils faced discrimination in employment |
| 1956+ | University Admissions: Sinhala students given priority in university admissions | Tamil students needed higher marks to get admission |
| 1972 | Buddhism Favored: State protection and promotion of Buddhism written in constitution | Hindu Tamils felt their religion was treated as inferior |
3.5 Consequences of Majoritarianism
💔 Tragic Results
- Alienation of Tamils: Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated, discriminated against, and unwanted in their own country
- Political Demands: Tamil political leaders demanded regional autonomy, equal rights, and recognition of Tamil language
- Government Rejection: Successive Sinhala-dominated governments rejected all Tamil demands
- Rise of Militancy: LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) was formed, demanding a separate Tamil nation
- Civil War (1983-2009): A devastating civil war that lasted 26 years
- Human Cost: Thousands killed from both communities, families displaced, economy devastated
📅 Important Dates - Sri Lanka
- 1948: Sri Lanka gains independence from Britain
- 1956: Sinhala Only Act passed — beginning of majoritarianism
- 1972: Buddhism given special status in constitution
- 1983: Civil War begins — "Black July" riots
- 2009: Civil War ends after 26 years — LTTE defeated
4. 📊 Belgium vs Sri Lanka: A Comparison
| Aspect | 🇧🇪 Belgium | 🇱🇰 Sri Lanka |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | ✅ Power Sharing & Accommodation | ❌ Majoritarianism & Dominance |
| Majority Community | Dutch speaking (59%) | Sinhala (74%) |
| Minority Treatment | Equal rights, representation guaranteed | Discrimination, rights denied |
| Language Policy | All three languages recognized | Only Sinhala as official language (1956) |
| Constitutional Response | 4 amendments to accommodate all | Constitution favored majority religion |
| Government Structure | Community Government created | No autonomy for minorities |
| Result | ✅ Peace, Unity, Prosperity | ❌ Civil War (1983-2009), Thousands killed |
| Lesson | Sharing = Success | Dominance = Disaster |
🎯 Key Takeaway
The contrasting stories of Belgium and Sri Lanka teach us that:
- Power sharing leads to peace, stability, and unity
- Majoritarianism leads to conflict, division, and destruction
- In diverse societies, accommodation is better than domination
5. 🤝 Forms of Power Sharing
Power can be shared in modern democracies in four main ways. These different forms ensure that power does not remain in one hand.
| Form | What It Means | Example |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Horizontal Distribution (Among Organs of Government) |
Power is shared among different organs of government at the same level:
|
India: Parliament makes laws, but Supreme Court can declare them unconstitutional. President can send bills back to Parliament. |
| 2. Vertical Distribution (Federalism) (Among Levels of Government) |
Power is shared among governments at different levels:
|
India: Defence is Central; Police is State; Local roads are Panchayat matter. Constitution divides powers through Union, State, and Concurrent Lists. |
| 3. Among Social Groups (Community Representation) |
Power is shared among different social groups:
|
Belgium: Community Government India: Reservation for SC/ST/OBC in legislatures and jobs |
| 4. Among Political Parties (Party System) |
Power is shared through:
|
India: NDA, UPA coalitions Opposition parties raise questions in Parliament, expose government failures |
🔍 Horizontal vs Vertical Power Sharing
| Aspect | Horizontal | Vertical |
|---|---|---|
| Direction | Same level (sideways) → | Different levels (up-down) ↑↓ |
| Among Whom | Legislature, Executive, Judiciary | Central, State, Local Governments |
| Example | Checks and Balances | Federalism |
6. 💡 Why is Power Sharing Desirable?
There are two sets of reasons why power sharing is desirable in a democracy:
6.1 Prudential Reasons (व्यावहारिक/समझदारी के तर्क)
🧠 What are Prudential Reasons?
Prudential reasons are based on practical wisdom and careful calculation of what will produce good results. These are "smart" reasons — power sharing is good because it works better.
- ✅ Reduces conflict: Power sharing helps reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups
- ✅ Ensures stability: Imposing majority will leads to instability (Sri Lanka example)
- ✅ Prevents tyranny: No single group can dominate and oppress others
- ✅ Keeps unity: Different groups feel included, so they stay together
- ✅ Prevents civil war: Belgium avoided conflict through accommodation
6.2 Moral Reasons (नैतिक तर्क)
❤️ What are Moral Reasons?
Moral reasons are based on what is right or ethical, not just what works. These argue that power sharing is the right thing to do regardless of outcomes.
- ✅ Spirit of democracy: Power sharing is the very essence of democracy
- ✅ People's right: In a democracy, citizens have a right to be consulted on how they are governed
- ✅ Participation: A legitimate government is one where all citizens have a stake in the system
- ✅ Dignity: Every group deserves respect and recognition
- ✅ Voice to all: Power sharing gives voice to minorities who might otherwise be ignored
📝 Remember for Exams
Prudential reasons = Power sharing is USEFUL (reduces conflict, ensures stability)
Moral reasons = Power sharing is RIGHT (spirit of democracy, people's right)
Questions may ask you to distinguish between these two types of reasons!
7. 📚 Important Terms (Glossary)
Power Sharing
Distribution of power among different organs, levels, and groups of government to prevent concentration of power in one hand.
Majoritarianism
A belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority.
Ethnic
A social division based on shared culture, language, ancestry, or common history. Each ethnic group has a sense of common identity.
Civil War
A violent conflict between opposing groups within the same country. Sri Lanka experienced civil war from 1983-2009.
Community Government
A government elected by people belonging to one language community (Dutch, French, or German speaking in Belgium). Has power over cultural, educational, and language-related matters.
Checks and Balances
A system where each organ of government (legislature, executive, judiciary) can check the others to prevent abuse of power.
Prudential
Based on practical wisdom and careful consideration of consequences. Prudential reasons argue that power sharing produces better outcomes.
Federalism
A system where power is vertically divided between central government and state/provincial governments. Each level has its own jurisdiction.
Coalition Government
A government formed by two or more political parties joining together, usually when no single party wins a majority.
LTTE
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam — a militant organization in Sri Lanka that fought for a separate Tamil homeland. Active from 1976-2009.
8. 📝 Practice MCQs (Board Exam Pattern)
Q1. What percentage of Belgium's population speaks Dutch?
✅ Answer: (B) 59%
Dutch speaking (Flemish) people form 59% of Belgium's population, living mainly in the Flemish region in the north.
Dutch speaking (Flemish) people form 59% of Belgium's population, living mainly in the Flemish region in the north.
Q2. In which year did Sri Lanka pass the 'Sinhala Only Act'?
✅ Answer: (B) 1956
The Sinhala Only Act was passed in 1956, making Sinhala the only official language and beginning the policy of majoritarianism.
The Sinhala Only Act was passed in 1956, making Sinhala the only official language and beginning the policy of majoritarianism.
Q3. Horizontal distribution of power refers to power sharing among:
✅ Answer: (B) Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary
Horizontal power sharing is among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
Horizontal power sharing is among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary.
Q4. Belgium amended its constitution how many times between 1970-1993?
✅ Answer: (C) Four times
Belgium amended its constitution four times between 1970 and 1993 to accommodate all linguistic communities through power sharing.
Belgium amended its constitution four times between 1970 and 1993 to accommodate all linguistic communities through power sharing.
Q5. The Sri Lankan Civil War lasted from:
✅ Answer: (C) 1983-2009
The devastating civil war in Sri Lanka lasted 26 years, from 1983 to 2009, caused by majoritarian policies against Tamils.
The devastating civil war in Sri Lanka lasted 26 years, from 1983 to 2009, caused by majoritarian policies against Tamils.
Q6. What is the majority community in Sri Lanka?
✅ Answer: (B) Sinhala (74%)
Sinhala speaking Buddhists form 74% of Sri Lanka's population and are the majority community.
Sinhala speaking Buddhists form 74% of Sri Lanka's population and are the majority community.
Q7. What is 'Community Government' in Belgium?
✅ Answer: (B) Government elected by one language community
Community Government is elected by people of one language community (Dutch, French, or German) and handles cultural, educational matters.
Community Government is elected by people of one language community (Dutch, French, or German) and handles cultural, educational matters.
Q8. Which of the following is a 'prudential' reason for power sharing?
✅ Answer: (B) It reduces conflict between groups
Prudential reasons are practical — power sharing works because it reduces conflict. Other options are moral reasons.
Prudential reasons are practical — power sharing works because it reduces conflict. Other options are moral reasons.
Q9. What percentage of Brussels population speaks French?
✅ Answer: (C) 80%
In Brussels (Belgium's capital), 80% people speak French and 20% speak Dutch.
In Brussels (Belgium's capital), 80% people speak French and 20% speak Dutch.
Q10. Vertical division of power refers to:
✅ Answer: (B) Division among Central, State, and Local governments
Vertical division is among different levels of government — Central, State, and Local. This is also called Federalism.
Vertical division is among different levels of government — Central, State, and Local. This is also called Federalism.
9. ✍️ Important Short Answer Questions (2-3 Marks)
Q1. What is majoritarianism? Give one example.
Answer: Majoritarianism is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority. The majority does not share power with minorities but instead imposes its dominance over them.
Example: In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala majority (74%) imposed their language, religion, and preferences on Tamil minority through the Sinhala Only Act (1956), which is an example of majoritarianism.
Example: In Sri Lanka, the Sinhala majority (74%) imposed their language, religion, and preferences on Tamil minority through the Sinhala Only Act (1956), which is an example of majoritarianism.
Q2. What is 'Community Government' in Belgium?
Answer: Community Government in Belgium is a unique third type of government (besides central and state governments). It is elected by people belonging to one language community — Dutch, French, or German-speaking — no matter where they live in the country.
Community Government has power over cultural, educational, and language-related issues for that community. This was created to give linguistic minorities a voice in matters that affect their cultural identity.
Community Government has power over cultural, educational, and language-related issues for that community. This was created to give linguistic minorities a voice in matters that affect their cultural identity.
Q3. Give two reasons why power sharing is desirable.
Answer:
(1) Prudential Reason: Power sharing helps reduce conflict between different social groups, ensuring stability and unity in the country. The example of Belgium shows how accommodation leads to peace, while Sri Lanka's majoritarianism led to civil war.
(2) Moral Reason: Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. In a democracy, citizens have the right to be consulted on how they are governed. A legitimate government is one where people acquire a stake in the system through participation.
(1) Prudential Reason: Power sharing helps reduce conflict between different social groups, ensuring stability and unity in the country. The example of Belgium shows how accommodation leads to peace, while Sri Lanka's majoritarianism led to civil war.
(2) Moral Reason: Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. In a democracy, citizens have the right to be consulted on how they are governed. A legitimate government is one where people acquire a stake in the system through participation.
Q4. Distinguish between horizontal and vertical power sharing.
Answer:
Horizontal Power Sharing: Power is shared among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. Each organ checks the others through a system of 'Checks and Balances'. Example: In India, Parliament makes laws, but Supreme Court can strike them down if unconstitutional.
Vertical Power Sharing: Power is shared among governments at different levels — Central, State, and Local. Each level has its own jurisdiction and the higher level cannot interfere in matters assigned to lower level. Example: In India, Defence is a Central subject while Police is a State subject.
Horizontal Power Sharing: Power is shared among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. Each organ checks the others through a system of 'Checks and Balances'. Example: In India, Parliament makes laws, but Supreme Court can strike them down if unconstitutional.
Vertical Power Sharing: Power is shared among governments at different levels — Central, State, and Local. Each level has its own jurisdiction and the higher level cannot interfere in matters assigned to lower level. Example: In India, Defence is a Central subject while Police is a State subject.
Q5. What were the consequences of majoritarianism in Sri Lanka?
Answer: The majoritarian policies in Sri Lanka had devastating consequences:
- Sri Lankan Tamils felt alienated and discriminated against
- Tamil political parties demanded equal rights and regional autonomy
- When demands were rejected, tensions escalated into violence
- LTTE (Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam) was formed
- A devastating civil war broke out in 1983
- The war lasted 26 years (1983-2009)
- Thousands of people from both communities were killed
- Families were displaced, economy was ruined
10. 📖 Important Long Answer Questions (5 Marks)
Q1. Compare the approaches of Belgium and Sri Lanka towards power sharing. What lessons can be drawn?
Answer:
BELGIUM'S APPROACH (Power Sharing):
SRI LANKA'S APPROACH (Majoritarianism):
LESSONS:
BELGIUM'S APPROACH (Power Sharing):
- Belgium recognized the existence of regional and cultural diversities
- Amended constitution four times (1970-1993) to accommodate all communities
- Created equal representation for Dutch and French in central government (50-50%)
- Gave more powers to state governments
- Created separate Brussels government with equal representation
- Established unique 'Community Government' for cultural matters
- Result: Peace, unity, and prosperity. Belgium hosts EU headquarters.
SRI LANKA'S APPROACH (Majoritarianism):
- Sinhala majority (74%) imposed dominance over Tamil minority
- 1956 Sinhala Only Act made Sinhala the only official language
- Gave preference to Sinhalas in government jobs and university admissions
- State protection given only to Buddhism in constitution
- Rejected all Tamil demands for autonomy and equal rights
- Result: Alienation of Tamils → LTTE formation → Civil War (1983-2009) → Thousands killed
LESSONS:
- Power sharing leads to peace; majoritarianism leads to conflict
- In diverse societies, accommodation is better than domination
- Minority rights must be protected for national unity
- Constitutional provisions for all communities ensure stability
- Short-term majority gains can lead to long-term national disasters
Q2. Explain the four forms of power sharing with examples.
Answer: Power can be shared in modern democracies in four main ways:
1. HORIZONTAL POWER SHARING (Among Organs of Government):
Power is shared among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. Each organ can check the others through a system called 'Checks and Balances'. This ensures that no single organ becomes all-powerful.
Example: In India, Parliament makes laws, Cabinet implements them, and Supreme Court interprets them. If Parliament passes an unconstitutional law, Supreme Court can strike it down.
2. VERTICAL POWER SHARING (Federalism):
Power is shared among governments at different levels — Central/Union Government, State/Provincial Government, and Local Government (Panchayat/Municipality). Each level has its own jurisdiction defined by the Constitution. Higher level cannot interfere in matters assigned to lower level.
Example: In India, Defence and Foreign Affairs are Union subjects; Police and Agriculture are State subjects; Local roads are Panchayat matters.
3. POWER SHARING AMONG SOCIAL GROUPS:
Power is shared among different social groups like religious communities, linguistic groups, and weaker sections. This ensures that no social group is excluded from governance and everyone feels included.
Example: Community Government in Belgium; Reservation for SC/ST/OBC in Indian legislatures and government jobs.
4. POWER SHARING AMONG POLITICAL PARTIES:
Power is shared through competition among political parties in elections, coalition governments (multiple parties sharing power), and opposition parties (checking the ruling party). This gives citizens choices and holds government accountable.
Example: Coalition governments like NDA and UPA in India; Opposition parties raising questions in Parliament.
1. HORIZONTAL POWER SHARING (Among Organs of Government):
Power is shared among different organs of government at the same level — Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary. Each organ can check the others through a system called 'Checks and Balances'. This ensures that no single organ becomes all-powerful.
Example: In India, Parliament makes laws, Cabinet implements them, and Supreme Court interprets them. If Parliament passes an unconstitutional law, Supreme Court can strike it down.
2. VERTICAL POWER SHARING (Federalism):
Power is shared among governments at different levels — Central/Union Government, State/Provincial Government, and Local Government (Panchayat/Municipality). Each level has its own jurisdiction defined by the Constitution. Higher level cannot interfere in matters assigned to lower level.
Example: In India, Defence and Foreign Affairs are Union subjects; Police and Agriculture are State subjects; Local roads are Panchayat matters.
3. POWER SHARING AMONG SOCIAL GROUPS:
Power is shared among different social groups like religious communities, linguistic groups, and weaker sections. This ensures that no social group is excluded from governance and everyone feels included.
Example: Community Government in Belgium; Reservation for SC/ST/OBC in Indian legislatures and government jobs.
4. POWER SHARING AMONG POLITICAL PARTIES:
Power is shared through competition among political parties in elections, coalition governments (multiple parties sharing power), and opposition parties (checking the ruling party). This gives citizens choices and holds government accountable.
Example: Coalition governments like NDA and UPA in India; Opposition parties raising questions in Parliament.
Q3. "Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy." Justify this statement.
Answer: The statement is absolutely correct. Power sharing is not just a mechanism of governance but the very essence of what democracy stands for. Here's why:
1. Democracy means rule by the people:
The word 'democracy' comes from Greek words 'demos' (people) and 'kratia' (rule). If power is concentrated in one person or group, it becomes dictatorship, not democracy. Power sharing ensures that multiple stakeholders participate in governance.
2. Citizens' right to participate:
In a democracy, every citizen has the right to be consulted on how they are governed. Power sharing through elections, local bodies, and community representation ensures this right is protected.
3. Legitimacy of government:
A legitimate government is one where citizens have a stake in the system. When power is shared, people feel included and respect the government. This gives moral authority to the government's decisions.
4. Protection of minorities:
Democracy is not just about majority rule — it also protects minority rights. Power sharing ensures that minorities have voice and representation, preventing tyranny of the majority (as seen in Sri Lanka).
5. Prevents concentration of power:
Lord Acton said, "Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely." Power sharing through horizontal division (checks and balances) prevents any single organ from becoming dictatorial.
6. Ensures accountability:
When power is shared among multiple organs, levels, and parties, each keeps a check on others. This makes government more accountable and responsive to people's needs.
Conclusion: Power sharing transforms democracy from mere majority rule to inclusive governance where every voice matters. Without power sharing, democracy would be an empty word.
1. Democracy means rule by the people:
The word 'democracy' comes from Greek words 'demos' (people) and 'kratia' (rule). If power is concentrated in one person or group, it becomes dictatorship, not democracy. Power sharing ensures that multiple stakeholders participate in governance.
2. Citizens' right to participate:
In a democracy, every citizen has the right to be consulted on how they are governed. Power sharing through elections, local bodies, and community representation ensures this right is protected.
3. Legitimacy of government:
A legitimate government is one where citizens have a stake in the system. When power is shared, people feel included and respect the government. This gives moral authority to the government's decisions.
4. Protection of minorities:
Democracy is not just about majority rule — it also protects minority rights. Power sharing ensures that minorities have voice and representation, preventing tyranny of the majority (as seen in Sri Lanka).
5. Prevents concentration of power:
Lord Acton said, "Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely." Power sharing through horizontal division (checks and balances) prevents any single organ from becoming dictatorial.
6. Ensures accountability:
When power is shared among multiple organs, levels, and parties, each keeps a check on others. This makes government more accountable and responsive to people's needs.
Conclusion: Power sharing transforms democracy from mere majority rule to inclusive governance where every voice matters. Without power sharing, democracy would be an empty word.
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