POLITICAL PARTIES

“No party system is ideal for all countries and in all situations.” Justify the
statement with five arguments. (2013 0D)

1. Parties are a necessary condition for a democracy.

2. The rise of political parties is directly linked to the emergence of representative
democracies.
3. Party system is not something any country can choose. It evolves depending on
the nature of society, its social and regional divisions, its history of politics and
system of elections.
4. Each country develops a party system that is conditioned by its special
circumstances.
5. Political parties make policies to promote collective good and there can be
different views on what is good for all.

What is a multi-party system? Why has India adopted a multi-party system?

Explain. (2015 D)
Or
How has multi-party system strengthened democracy in India? (2012 D)

If several parties compete for power and more than two parties have a reasonable
chance of coming to power either on their own strength or in alliance with others, we
call it a multi-party system.

India adopted a Multi-party system because:

(i) There is social and geographical diversity in India.

(ii) India is such a large country which is not easily absorbed by two or three
parties.
(iii) The system allows a variety of interests and opinions to enjoy political
representation.
Examine the role of opposition parties in a Democracy. (2014 OD)
Opposition parties play an important role in democracies. They play both positive and
negative role. Positive role,

1. They ensures political party in power does not misuse or abuse its power;
2. They expose the weaknesses of the ruling party;
3. They also keep a close vigil on the bills and expenditure of the government.

Negative role.

• They target the government and aim at dislodging and discrediting the
government for all the ills and the troubles the people face;
• Through stalling the proceedings of the parliament, dhamas and gheravs, it
curtails the progress of the country.
 The opposition’s work is not to abstract the functioning of the
administration but keep a close watch on the working of the party in
power so that democracy becomes meaningful.

“About hundred years ago there were few countries that had hardly any political
party. Now there are few countries that do not have political parties.” Examine
this statement. (2014 OD)

1. Modern form of democracies also need representatives from various political

parties to form the government and to keep a check on the ruling party by being
in opposition.
2. Without political parties there would be chaos and turmoil in the society
3. Existence of political parties in a representative democracy ensures that the
country runs as per its policies and ideologies and has a responsive and
accountable government that is answerable to the people.
4. Without political parties, candidates elected would b independent, will be
accountable to their constituency for what they do in the locality.
5. Political parties are required in a country so that a country is governed as per set
ideologies and will be responsible for how the country will be run.

“All over the world, people express their dissatisfaction with the failure of
political parties to perform their functions well.” Analyse the statement with
arguments. (2016 D)
Write the challenges of democracy