Which one among the following factors greatly restrains the government in a democratic society?

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks which factor places the greatest restraint (limit) on a government in a democracy. Think about where a democratic government gets its power and authority.

Step 2: Explain the concept In a democracy, sovereignty ultimately belongs to the people. The government rules only because citizens have given it the mandate to do so, usually through free and fair elections. This is the principle of consent of the governed. Because power is only "borrowed" from the people, the government must:

• Act within the constitution and the law
• Respect citizens' rights
• Face the possibility of being voted out at the next election

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Consent of the governed: This is the foundation of legitimacy in a democracy. If a government loses the people's consent, it loses its authority. This is the strongest restraint. ✔
• B. Consent of civil society organisations: CSOs (like NLC or the Bar Association) can pressure the government, but they do not give it its mandate. They are only one part of the people, so their influence is not the greatest.
• C. Ideology of the party: This guides policy direction, but it is an internal guide, not a real external restraint on government.
• D. Parliamentary debates: These help scrutinize government actions, but they are a mechanism of oversight, not the ultimate source of restraint.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is **A.

Tip: In Government questions about democracy, remember that "the people" are the ultimate source of power. Phrases like "restrains government," "legitimacy," or "source of authority" usually point to consent of the governed / the people / popular sovereignty.