This chapter explains what political parties are and why they are necessary for democracy. A party is a group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power, bound by a shared set of policies and programmes for the society. Parties perform key functions: contesting elections, putting forward policies and programmes, making laws, forming and running governments, acting as the opposition, shaping public opinion, and giving people access to government and welfare schemes. The chapter describes party systems — one-party, two-party and multi-party — and explains why India, given its social diversity, has a multi-party system. It distinguishes national and state parties on the basis of recognition and vote share by the Election Commission. It then discusses the challenges parties face — the lack of internal democracy, dynastic succession, the growing role of money and muscle power, and the failure to offer a meaningful choice to voters — and suggests reforms such as anti-defection laws, mandatory disclosure of finances and steps to make parties more democratic and accountable.
Meaning and necessity of partiesFunctions of political partiesParty systemsNational and state parties in IndiaChallenges to political partiesReforms to strengthen parties
Key terms
Political party
A group that contests elections to gain power and pursue shared policies.
Ruling party
The party or alliance that forms and runs the government.
Opposition
Parties that are not in power and check and criticise the government.
Multi-party system
A system in which many parties compete and contest for power.
Defection
Changing party allegiance after being elected on a party’s ticket.
National party
A party recognised across many states by the Election Commission.
Partisan
A person strongly committed to a party or faction.
Affidavit
A signed legal document candidates file declaring their details.
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