Class 10 Polity Chapter 6: Political Parties Notes
Political parties are an essential part of democracy, representing different ideologies, interests, and policies. This chapter explains the functions of political parties, the role of opposition, the challenges they face, and how multi-party systems work in countries like India, the USA, and the UK.
Introduction
- In a democracy, people elect leaders who make policies and laws.
- These leaders are usually members of political parties.
- Political parties help organize elections, form governments, and represent different opinions.
- Every country has some form of a party system (one-party, two-party, or multi-party).
What is a Political Party?
Definition of Political Party
A political party is an organized group of people who:
- Share common political beliefs and policies.
- Aim to contest elections and hold power in government.
- Mobilize public opinion on different issues.
Characteristics of Political Parties
- Organized Structure – Every party has leaders, members, and supporters.
- Common Ideology – Parties follow specific principles or policies.
- Elections & Power – They contest elections to form a government.
- Accountability to People – In a democracy, parties must work for the people.
Example:
- Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) follows right-wing ideology, while
- Indian National Congress (INC) follows centrist ideology.
Functions of Political Parties
| Function | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Contest Elections | Parties nominate candidates for elections. | BJP, Congress, and regional parties contest elections in India. |
| Form Government | The winning party forms the government. | The BJP-led NDA government in 2019. |
| Make Laws | Elected parties introduce and pass laws. | Parliament debates and passes bills. |
| Shape Public Opinion | Parties influence people’s views on issues. | Manifestos, speeches, and campaigns. |
| Act as an Opposition | Opposition parties question the government’s policies. | Congress and other opposition parties in Lok Sabha. |
| Provide Political Choices | Voters get different options based on party ideologies. | BJP (Hindutva ideology) vs. CPI(M) (Left ideology). |
Types of Party Systems
One-Party System
- Only one political party controls the government.
- No opposition is allowed.
- Example: China (Communist Party), North Korea
- Advantage: Stable government.
- Disadvantage: No democracy or political competition.
Two-Party System
- Only two major parties compete for power.
- One wins, and the other becomes the opposition.
- Example: USA (Democrats & Republicans), UK (Labour Party & Conservative Party)
- Advantage: Clear choice for voters.
- Disadvantage: Limited options.
Multi-Party System
- More than two parties compete for power.
- Coalition governments are common when no party gets a majority.
- Example: India (BJP, Congress, AAP, regional parties, etc.), Italy, France
- Advantage: Better representation of diverse opinions.
- Disadvantage: Unstable governments due to coalition politics.
Political Parties in India
Types of Political Parties in India
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| National Party | Recognized in 4+ states, strong presence across India. | BJP, Congress, CPI(M), AAP. |
| State Party | Active in only one or a few states. | TMC (West Bengal), DMK (Tamil Nadu). |
| Regional Party | Represents specific communities or issues. | Shiv Sena (Maharashtra), BJD (Odisha). |
Major Political Parties in India
| Party | Year Founded | Ideology |
|---|---|---|
| Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) | 1980 | Right-wing, nationalism, social welfare. |
| Indian National Congress (INC) | 1885 | secularism, social welfare. |
| Communist Party of India (CPI) | 1925 | Left-wing, Marxism. |
| Trinamool Congress (TMC) | 1998 | Regional, social welfare. |
| Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) | 2012 | Anti-corruption, governance reforms. |
Challenges Faced by Political Parties
| Challenge | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Lack of Internal Democracy | Most parties are controlled by a few leaders (dynastic politics). |
| Corruption and Money Power | Elections are influenced by money from businesses and criminals. |
| Muscle Power in Elections | Criminals contest elections, leading to violence and intimidation. |
| Caste and Religion-Based Politics | Parties divide voters based on caste or religion. |
| Lack of Representation of Women | Very few women leaders in politics. |
How Can Political Parties Be Reformed?
Laws and Regulations
- Anti-defection Law (1985): MPs/MLAs cannot switch parties after elections.
- RTI (Right to Information): Political parties must disclose their funding.
- Supreme Court’s Order (2002): Criminal records of candidates must be made public.
Encouraging Internal Democracy
- Party leadership should be elected democratically.
- More youth and women should be encouraged to participate.
Reducing Role of Money and Muscle Power
- Strict election funding rules.
- Government should fund elections to reduce private donations.
Key Learning:
Reforms are necessary to make political parties more accountable and democratic.
Conclusion
- Political parties help run governments, shape public policies, and represent different groups.
- Despite challenges, political parties are essential for democracy.
- Reforms are needed to make political parties more transparent and inclusive.