The value of democracy is based on what?

People's participation and consent

Democracy rests on the idea that people are the source of political authority. Citizens participate by voting, expressing opinions, discussing public issues, joining organisations, and holding representatives accountable. Consent does not mean that every person agrees with every decision; it means that government is formed and continued through accepted democratic procedures rather than hereditary privilege, foreign command, or forced silence. Public participation gives decisions legitimacy and allows people to influence the direction of governance.

Option A is correct because it includes both participation and consent. Hereditary rule belongs to monarchy, while foreign orders deny self-government. Citizens’ silence cannot be the foundation of a democratic system. Even when elected representatives make decisions, they remain answerable to the people and can be replaced through lawful elections. Thus, democracy treats citizens not as passive subjects but as active members whose views and approval matter in public affairs.

This is a Class 9 Civics question. Chapter: Constitutional Design. Topic: Guiding values of the Indian Constitution.