CBSE Class 10 | Civics Chapter: Political Parties

Political Parties

Introduction

Political parties are one of the most visible institutions in a democracy. They play a crucial role in shaping public opinion, forming governments, and ensuring accountability. In fact, modern representative democracies cannot function without political parties. This chapter explores the meaning, functions, types, and challenges of political parties in India and the world. It also discusses the need for reforms to make political parties more transparent and democratic.Political Parties Class 10

I. What is a Political Party?

A political party is an organized group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government. They share common ideology, policy goals, and political interests.

Key Characteristics:

Organized structure and membership
Shared ideology and political goals
Aim to gain political power through elections

Without political parties, every candidate in an election would be independent, making it difficult to form a stable government. Hence, parties simplify the process of representation and decision-making.

II. Functions of Political Parties

Political parties perform various important functions in a democracy:

1. Contest Elections

Political parties nominate candidates for elections. These candidates contest under the party’s symbol.

2. Policy Making and Governance

Parties play a major role in forming and running governments. If a party wins a majority, it forms the government and implements its policies.Political Parties Class 10

3. Shaping Public Opinion

They educate the public on political issues through campaigns, speeches, media, and debates.

4. Providing Opposition

When a party loses an election, it does not disappear. Instead, it functions as the opposition, questioning the government and holding it accountable.

5. Access to Government Machinery

Through parties, people can approach their elected representatives to solve problems or seek help from authorities.

III. Types of Political Party Systems

Different countries follow different types of party systems based on their history and political context.

One-Party System

Only one political party is allowed to operate.

Example: China (Communist Party)
Criticism: No democratic choice for voters.

Two-Party System

Two major parties dominate the political scene.

Example: United States (Democrats and Republicans)
Advantage: Stable government.
Limitation: Limited choice for voters.
Multi-Party System

Several parties compete for power, and coalition governments are common.

Example: India, France, Italy
Advantage: Wider representation.
Limitation: May lead to political instability.

India follows a multi-party system because of its social and cultural diversity.

🇮🇳 IV. Major Political Parties in India

India has many political parties, but the Election Commission of India classifies them into:

1. National Parties

These parties have a presence in multiple states and national influence.

Some Examples:

Indian National Congress (INC): One of the oldest parties, founded in 1885.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Emerged as a major force in the 1990s.
Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP): Focuses on Dalit empowerment.
Communist Party of India (Marxist) – CPI(M): Follows leftist ideology.
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP): Formed in 1999, based in Maharashtra.

2. State or Regional Parties

These have influence in specific states and play crucial roles in state politics.

Examples: DMK (Tamil Nadu), TMC (West Bengal), BJD (Odisha), AAP (Delhi, Punjab)

Often, regional parties are part of coalition governments at the centre.

V. Challenges to Political Parties

Despite their importance, political parties face several challenges:

1. Lack of Internal Democracy

Most parties are dominated by a few leaders.
Decisions are often made by top leadership without consultation.

2. Dynastic Succession

Family-based leadership is common.
Limits opportunities for ordinary members to rise.

3. Use of Money and Muscle Power

Elections are expensive.
Wealthy candidates often have an unfair advantage.

4. Criminalization of Politics

Many candidates with criminal backgrounds contest and win elections.

5. Lack of Meaningful Choice

Sometimes parties have similar ideologies.
Voters may feel there is no real alternative.

These issues weaken public trust in the democratic process.

VI. Reforming Political Parties

To strengthen democracy, political parties must become more transparent, accountable, and democratic. Various steps can help:

1. Legal Reforms

Making it mandatory for parties to maintain financial transparency.
Disqualifying candidates with serious criminal charges.

2. Electoral Reforms

Capping election expenditure.
Ensuring fair representation of women and minorities.

3. Public Awareness

Voters must demand accountability.
Media and civil society can promote democratic values.

4. Role of the Election Commission

Monitoring party functioning.
Enforcing model code of conduct.

5. Internal Party Democracy

Conducting regular internal elections.
Involving members in decision-making processes.

Hence, reform is a collective responsibility involving the government, voters, media, and the parties themselves.

Conclusion

Political parties are indispensable for democracy. They provide structure, representation, leadership, and accountability. However, their performance and practices must align with democratic values. As citizens and future voters, students should understand the role of political parties and actively participate in democratic processes.

Therefore, strengthening internal democracy, ensuring fair elections, and promoting transparency are essential for the healthy functioning of political parties—and by extension, for the success of Indian democracy itself.