ThinkRankPolitical Parties
Overview
The chapter explains the role of political parties, different party systems, and challenges like dynasticism, lack of internal democracy, and defection.
Learning Objectives
- Define political parties and their functions
- Compare one-party, two-party and multi-party systems
- Identify challenges in party politics
Key Concepts
Role of Parties
Parties contest elections, form governments, and represent different interests.
Party Systems
Countries may have one-party, two-party, or multi-party systems depending on political context.
Opposition and Accountability
Opposition parties check government actions and highlight alternative policies.
Challenges
Internal democracy is weak in many parties, and dynastic succession is common.
Reforms
Measures like anti-defection law and transparency rules aim to improve party functioning.
Party Organization
Party workers build support, manage campaigns, and connect leaders to voters.
Role of Election Commission
It registers parties, allocates symbols, and enforces fair election rules.
Key Terms
Examples
Coalition Governments
Multiple parties share power when no party wins a majority.
Anti-Defection Law
It discourages elected representatives from changing parties for personal gain.
Quick Check
- Why are political parties necessary?
- What is a coalition government?
- Name one major challenge of parties.