5.1 Political Parties: Party System, Recognition of National and State Parties



SIMPLY SMART


Introduction

Political parties play a major role in India’s democratic process.
They help citizens participate in government formation, public decisions, and elections.
India’s party system reflects the country’s diversity, federal structure, and political evolution.

The Election Commission of India (ECI) grants recognition to parties as National or State parties based on specific criteria.

1. Party System in India

India has developed a multi-party system, which means several political parties operate at national and state levels.

Features of India’s Party System

1. Multiparty System

India has many active parties such as BJP, INC, AAP, DMK, AIADMK, TMC, CPI(M), BSP, TVK and several regional parties.

2. Dominant Party System (Earlier)

From 1952–1977, Congress dominated Indian politics.
This period is often called the Congress System.

3. Coalition Politics

After 1989, no single party gained absolute majority for long.
Coalition governments became common at the Centre and States.

4. Rise of Regional Parties

Parties like DMK, TDP, Shiv Sena, TRS, SP, and BJD gained importance and influence in state and national politics.

5. Role of Ideology and Identity

Caste, religion, region, and language influence party support.
Parties represent specific social groups and regional aspirations.

6. Competitive Electoral Politics

Elections are held regularly at national and state levels, creating political competition.

Keyword: Indian party system characteristics

2. Role of Political Parties in India

  1. Contest elections

  2. Form governments

  3. Represent people’s interests

  4. Provide political leadership

  5. Frame policies and programs

  6. Criticise the government as opposition

  7. Promote political awareness among citizens

3. Recognition of Political Parties in India

The Election Commission of India (ECI) recognises parties as:

  1. National Parties

  2. State Parties

  3. Registered Unrecognised Parties

Recognition gives special privileges like reserved symbols, free broadcast time, and financial transparency.

4. Criteria for Recognition of National Parties

(As per ECI’s latest guidelines)

A political party is recognised as a National Party if it meets any one of the following conditions:

1. Seats in Lok Sabha

Wins 2% of total Lok Sabha seats from at least 3 different states.

2. State Party Status in Four States

The party must be recognised as a State Party in at least 4 states.

3. Vote Share Condition

Secures at least 6% of valid votes in 4 or more states and wins at least 4 Lok Sabha seats.

Keyword: Criteria for National Party in India

5. Criteria for Recognition of State Parties

A party is recognised as a State Party if it meets any one of the following:

1. Vote Share Condition

Secures 6% of valid votes in the state’s Legislative Assembly or Lok Sabha election from that state.

2. Seats in State Assembly

Wins 2 seats in the Legislative Assembly.

3. Lok Sabha Seats from the State

Wins 1 seat in Lok Sabha from that state.

4. 3% Seat Rule

Wins 3% of total seats in the State Legislative Assembly.

5. Parliamentary Seats Rule

Wins 1 seat for every 25 Lok Sabha seats allocated to the state.

Keyword: Criteria for State Party recognition

6. Importance of Recognition by ECI

  1. Allotted a permanent party symbol

  2. Free airtime on Doordarshan & All India Radio

  3. Access to electoral rolls

  4. Priority in booth allocation

  5. Protection from symbol duplication

  6. Better credibility and public trust.





Conclusion

India’s political party system is diverse and dynamic, reflecting the country’s social and regional diversity.
The Election Commission ensures fair political competition by recognising parties as National or State parties through transparent criteria.
Political parties, whether national or regional, play a crucial role in shaping governance, public policy, and the democratic functioning of the country.




For Full Chapter  --->  22IMC7Z2 CONSTITUTION OF INDIA Unit-wise



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