India as a democracy needs democratically functioning political parties to deepen the democratic setup at grassroot level. Comment.

While India has a vibrant democracy at parliamentary level, intra-party democracy is not prevalent in India.

Political parties – integral part:

• Give voice to all sections of society.
• Ensure accountability of the government.
• Enables ideologically inclined individuals to participate in democratic setup.

Intra-party democracy worldwide:

• Oldest democracy USA – Presidential candidate chosen through primary election by party members.
• UK – leader of house (PM) chosen by all the members of the political party.
• Party leadership democratically chosen by members.

Need for strengthening intra-party democracy:

• Provides opportunities for grassroot leaders to contest for political posts.
• Youth can aspire for leadership roles.
• Checks dynastic politics and nepotism.
• Ensure free flow of ideas within the party.
• Ensures evolution of ideology with time.

Institutionalization of intra party democracy may be statutorily enforced by amending the Representation of People’s Act (1951). Such a measure will ensure transparency (financial and political), accountability and strengthen grass root level democracy in India.