Introduction to Political Parties
Political parties are one of the most visible institutions in a
democracy
Even people in remote areas who may not know about
constitution/government are aware of major parties like BJP
and Congress
Parties are held responsible for problems in democratic
political life
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Definition & Components of Political Parties
A political party is a group of people who come together to
contest elections and hold power in government
Parties create programs and policies to attract public
support
Three main components: a) Leaders (top position) b) Active
members (party workers) c) Followers (ordinary citizens) -
largest in number
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Functions of Political Parties a) Contest Elections
Parties field candidates for elections
Top leaders select candidates
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b) Present Policies & Programs
Parties present different policies for voters to choose
Design policies to handle various societal views
Reduce multiple opinions into basic positions
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c) Decision Making
Play decisive role in making laws
Members follow party leadership's directions
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d) Form Government
Form and run government
Recruit and train leaders to become ministers
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e) Opposition Role
Losing parties play role of opposition
Criticize government policies and failures
Voice concerns against ruling party
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f) Shape Public Opinion
Raise social issues
Organize movements for people's problems
Have members across country representing different
sections
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g) Access to Government
Help provide people access to government machinery
Connect people to welfare schemes
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Types of Party Systems a) One Party System
Example: China (Communist Party)
Not considered democratic
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b) Two Party System
Power alternates between two main parties
Example: USA, UK
Considered democratic
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c) Multi Party System
Several parties compete for power
More than two parties have chance to form government
Example: India
Coalition governments common
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Challenges Faced by Political Parties a) Lack of Internal
Democracy
Power concentrated with top leaders
Ordinary members lack information
Loyalty to leaders valued more than party principles
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b) Dynastic Succession
Unfair advantages to family members
Top positions controlled by one family
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c) Money and Muscle Power
Focus on wealthy candidates
Support to criminals with money/muscle power
Influence of rich companies through funding
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d) Lack of Meaningful Choice
Parties becoming similar
Decline in ideological differences
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Reforms Implemented
Anti-defection law to prevent MPs/MLAs from changing
parties
Supreme Court order requiring candidates to file affidavits
about criminal cases and property
Election Commission order making organizational elections
and income tax returns mandatory
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Suggested Reforms
Law to regulate internal party affairs
Mandatory women's quota for election tickets
Government funding for election expenses
Public pressure through petitions and movements
Greater participation by concerned citizens
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