National Parties in India – UGC-NTA NET Political Science
National parties in India play role in the country’s political landscape. They operate across multiple states and influence governance and policy-making.
Definition of National Parties
National parties are political entities that have a presence across the entire country. They are recognised by the Election Commission of India. To be classified as a national party, a political party must meet specific criteria.
Criteria for Recognition
To be recognised as a national party, a political party must fulfil one of the following conditions:
- Secure at least 6% of the total votes in any four or more states during Lok Sabha or Assembly elections.
- Win a minimum of 4 seats in the Lok Sabha from any state or states.
- Be recognised as a state party in four or more states.
These criteria ensure that national parties have a substantial foothold in Indian politics.
Major National Parties
Several national parties have shaped Indian politics. Here are the most prominent:
Indian National Congress (INC)
– Founded – 1885 – Ideology – Secularism, Social Democracy, Liberalism – Historical Significance – Played a very important role in the Indian independence movement. The INC was the primary vehicle for the struggle against British rule.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)
– Founded – 1980 – Ideology – Hindutva, Nationalism, Economic Liberalism – Historical Significance – Emerged from the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). It has become one of the most influential parties in recent decades.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP)
– Founded – 1984 by Kanshi Ram – Ideology – Social Justice, Ambedkarism, Secularism – Focus – Advocates for the rights of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
Communist Party of India (CPI)
– Founded – 1925 – Ideology – Marxism-Leninism, Socialism – Historical Significance – Instrumental in labour movements and peasant uprisings. It has a long history of advocating for workers’ rights.
Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)]
– Founded – 1964 after a split from CPI – Ideology – Marxism-Leninism, Democratic Socialism – Presence – Notably strong in Kerala, West Bengal, and Tripura.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)
– Founded – 1999 by Sharad Pawar – Ideology – Secularism, Social Democracy – Historical Significance – Formed from a split in the Indian National Congress, focusing on regional issues.
Electoral Performance
National parties contest elections at both national and state levels. Their performance can vary across different states.
- National parties often form alliances or coalitions to enhance their electoral prospects.
- The BJP has shown remarkable success in several states, while the INC remains influential in others.
- Regional parties have also gained ground, affecting the electoral dynamics of national parties.
Role in Indian Politics
National parties are crucial in shaping national policies and governance. They influence public opinion and political discourse.
- They play a key role in coalition politics, especially in a multi-party system.
- Their ideologies and manifestos guide policy-making and governance.
- National parties also engage in public outreach to connect with voters and address their concerns.
Challenges Faced by National Parties
National parties encounter various challenges that affect their functioning and public perception.
- Internal Factionalism: Disagreements within the party can lead to leadership crises.
- Regional Parties: The rise of regional parties has diluted the influence of national parties.
- Corruption: Allegations of corruption can damage public trust.
- Governance Issues: Inefficiencies in governance can lead to voter disillusionment.
Current Trends in Indian Politics
The political landscape in India is continually evolving. Recent trends reflect changes in voter behaviour and party dynamics.
- Increasing Polarisation: There is a growing divide between the BJP and other parties, particularly on ideological lines.
- Rise of Regional Parties: Regional parties are gaining strength, impacting the dominance of national parties.
- New Political Movements: Emerging parties focus on specific issues like environmentalism and youth representation.
