CBSE Class 10 Civics Chapter 6 Quiz

Overview of Political Parties

• Political parties are essential for democratic governance, facilitating political power sharing and addressing social divisions.
• They represent various groups and interests, shaping public opinion and providing access to government policies.

Components of Political Parties

• Three key components: leaders, active members, and followers.
• Parties develop policies to promote collective societal good.

Functions of Political Parties

• Contesting elections to gain political office.
• Proposing diverse policies for voters to choose from.
• Playing a crucial role in law-making and governance.
• Acting as opposition to criticize and provide alternative views to ruling parties.
• Shaping public opinion and providing access to government initiatives.

Importance of Political Parties

• Political parties enable representation of diverse viewpoints to the government.
• They form coalitions and alliances for effective governance.
• Serve as a mechanism for accountability by supporting or opposing government actions.

Types of Political Systems

• One-Party System: Only one party controls the government, often seen in non-democratic contexts.
• Two-Party System: Dominated by two major parties, e.g., USA and UK.
• Multi-Party System: Multiple parties compete for power, promoting diverse representation, e.g., India.

Recognition and Classification of Parties

• Election Commission of India classifies parties based on electoral performance.
• State Party: Secures at least 6% votes and wins 2 seats in state elections.
• National Party: Secures at least 6% votes in Lok Sabha or Assembly polls in 4 states and wins a minimum of 4 Lok Sabha seats.

Major National Parties in India

• All India Trinamool Congress (AITC): Founded in 1998, focuses on secularism, in power in West Bengal.
• Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP): Established in 1984, represents marginalized communities, primarily in Uttar Pradesh.
• Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP): Formed in 1980 with roots in 1951, promotes cultural nationalism and modernity.
• Communist Party of India (CPI): Established in 1925, emphasizes Marxism-Leninism and supports workers' rights.
• Communist Party of India - Marxist (CPI-M): Founded in 1964, strong in Kerala and West Bengal, supports socialism.
• Indian National Congress (INC): One of the oldest parties, advocating secularism and democratic values since 1885.
• Nationalist Congress Party (NCP): Formed in 1999, emphasizes social justice and equity.

State Parties (Regional Parties)

• Examples include Biju Janata Dal, Sikkim Democratic Front, Mizo National Front, Telangana Rashtra Samithi.
• Regional parties address local interests and governance.

Challenges Faced by Political Parties

• Internal democracy issues, lack of membership transparency, and leadership monopolization by families.
• Increasing influence of money and muscle power during elections.
• Voter disillusionment due to lack of genuine choices among candidates.

Reforming Political Parties

• Recent reforms include amendments to prevent party switching by elected members.
• Supreme Court mandates transparency regarding candidates' financial and criminal backgrounds.
• Election Commission requires organizational elections and regular financial reporting from political parties.

Suggestions for Further Reform

• Legislation to regulate internal party affairs and enhance democratic practices.
• Mandating a quota for women in candidacies and decision-making roles.
• Introducing state funding of elections to reduce dependence on private donations.
• Public pressure through activism can motivate parties to reform and adapt.