In which situation does violation of rights question the legitimacy of democracy?

Correct answer: When government punishes critics without hearing

Direct answer: A, legitimacy is questioned when the government punishes critics without giving them a fair hearing. Democratic authority is not justified by elections alone; it must also respect law, rights, fairness, and the dignity of citizens. Punishing people merely for criticism, especially without a proper opportunity to be heard, shows arbitrary use of state power and weakens freedom of expression and due process. A is correct because it describes government action that conflicts with the standards that make democratic rule legitimate. B is wrong because peaceful assembly is normally a form of lawful civic participation, subject to reasonable legal rules. C is wrong because protecting rights strengthens democratic legitimacy. D is wrong because free elections support legitimacy, although elections alone are not the whole of democracy. Memory cue: democratic legitimacy needs both public authorisation and respect for rights.