Chapter 3: Electoral Politics

Concept of Electoral Politics

• Democracy does not require direct governance by the people; representation is crucial in the current global context.
• Common representatives include Members of Parliament (MP), Members of Legislative Assembly (MLA), Councillors, and Pradhan (village head).
• Regular elections occur approximately every five years for various legislative bodies, including Lok Sabha, Vidhan Sabha, Panchayats, and municipalities.

Importance of Elections

• Elections are vital in a representative democracy, allowing voters to express their preferences.
• Voters make significant decisions regarding:
  • Who will create laws that impact their lives.
  • Who will lead the government and make essential policy decisions.
  • Which political party's policies will influence governance and legislation.

Criteria for Democratic Elections

• Ensures the principle of "one person, one vote," promoting equality among voters.
• Offers voters multiple choices to encourage varied political representation.
• Stipulates that elections should occur at regular intervals, maintaining the democratic process.
• Requires that elections are conducted fairly and without bias to uphold integrity.

Disadvantages of Political Competition

• Political competition can foster disunity and intense factionalism within the society.
• Political leaders may exchange accusations, creating a contentious environment.
• There is potential for unethical practices, including the use of manipulative tactics by candidates and parties to secure votes.

Electoral Constituencies

• The country is divided into distinct electoral constituencies to facilitate the election process.
• Each constituency is assigned representatives who are accountable to the voters in that area, ensuring localized governance and representation.