MULTIPARTY SYSTEM
Multiparty System in India (Detailed for Exam
Perspective)
1. Introduction
India, as the world’s largest democracy, has adopted a
multiparty system since its independence. This system
allows for multiple political parties to exist, contest
elections, and hold power either independently or
through alliances. Given India's diversity in terms of
caste, language, religion, and region, the multiparty
system is not just appropriate, but essential for
inclusive governance.
2. Meaning and Nature of Multiparty System
A multiparty system is a political setup where more
than two parties have a realistic chance of coming to
power, either individually or in coalition. Unlike
bipartisan systems (like in the USA or UK), where two
major parties dominate, India’s system is marked by a
wide array of national and regional parties. These
parties represent the varied interests of the population,
often based on regional identities, linguistic lines,
caste dynamics, and economic agendas.
3. Evolution of Multiparty System in India
• 1950s–1960s: Congress dominated politics as the
sole major party.
• 1977: First non-Congress government formed post-
Emergency, showing signs of political
fragmentation.
• 1989 onwards: Rise of coalition politics with the
decline of one-party dominance.
• Post-1990s: Emergence of regional parties and
coalition governments at the center.
• Recent trend: Rise of stronger central parties (like
BJP), yet regional parties continue to dominate
in many states.
4. Features of India’s Multiparty System
a. Presence of National and Regional Parties
• National Parties: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP),
Indian National Congress (INC), Aam Aadmi Party
(AAP), Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), etc.
• Regional Parties: Trinamool Congress (TMC) in
West Bengal, DMK in Tamil Nadu, BJD in Odisha,
TRS (now BRS) in Telangana, etc.
b. Coalition Governments
No single party often gets a majority, leading to
alliances like:
• NDA (National Democratic Alliance) – led by
BJP
• INDIA Bloc (Indian National Developmental
Inclusive Alliance) – led by INC and regional
parties
c. Diverse Representation
Multiparty democracy ensures social, cultural, and
regional diversity is represented in the political
process.
d. Democratic Competition
Healthy electoral competition leads to more
accountability and responsiveness from elected
governments.
5. Merits of the Multiparty System
• Representation of Diversity
Reflects India’s pluralistic society and gives voice
to minorities and marginalized communities.
• Checks on Power
Prevents the emergence of a dominant one-party
rule; promotes democratic checks and balances.
• Encourages Alliances and Dialogue
Promotes consensus-based governance, especially
in coalition setups.
• Increased Voter Choice
Voters have a wide range of political ideologies
and leaders to choose from.
6. Demerits of the Multiparty System
• Political Instability
Frequent fall of coalition governments, mid-term
elections, and shifting alliances.
• Policy Paralysis
Coalition compulsions often hinder bold policy
decisions or long-term reforms.
• Fragmentation of Vote
Vote shares get divided among many parties,
reducing the strength of public mandate.
• Rise of Identity Politics
Parties may mobilize support along caste, religion,
or linguistic lines, which can weaken national
unity.
7. Role of Regional Parties
Regional parties have played a crucial role in shaping
India’s political narrative:
• Empowering local governance by bringing
regional issues to the forefront.
• Becoming kingmakers in central politics,
especially during hung parliaments.
• Influencing national policy through alliances and
pressure politics.
8. Map Sketch: Party Dominance by State (for
Exams)
In an exam, draw a rough political map of India and
label major states with their dominant political
parties. Here’s a guide:
State Dominant Party/Alliance
Uttar Pradesh BJP
West Bengal TMC
Tamil Nadu DMK
Odisha BJD
Punjab AAP
Telangana BRS
Shiv Sena (UBT) + NCP + INC
Maharashtra
(MVA)
Bihar JDU + RJD (Mahagathbandhan)
Gujarat BJP
Kerala CPI(M)-led Left Alliance
Delhi AAP
Karnataka INC
State Dominant Party/Alliance
Chhattisgarh INC
Madhya
BJP
Pradesh
Sketch Tips:
• Mark state borders with light lines.
• Use abbreviations (e.g., BJP, INC, DMK).
• Use simple symbols (dots, dashes) to distinguish
states if asked.
• Avoid coloring unless allowed.
9. Conclusion
India’s multiparty system is both a strength and a
challenge. It allows the representation of the country’s
diverse population but also brings complexities in
governance. While coalition politics can lead to
instability, it also fosters dialogue, inclusion, and
regional empowerment. The system, though evolving,
remains a cornerstone of Indian democracy,
reflecting the will and voice of its people.
Let me know if you'd like a printable PDF version or a brief version for last-minute revision!
