Political Parties in India
45 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

How do political parties shape public opinion?

  • By opposing pressure groups
  • By maintaining silence on societal problems
  • By encouraging disorganization within society
  • By raising and highlighting issues (correct)
  • The Bharatiya Janata Party promotes cultural nationalism as an important part of its political ideology.

    True (A)

    Which regional political party is predominant in Punjab?

  • Uttarakhand Kranti Dal
  • Indian National Lok Dal
  • Shiromani Akali Dal (correct)
  • Jharkhand Mukti Morcha
  • Name the national political party that espouses secularism and welfare of weaker sections.

    <p>National Congress Party</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The symbol of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is a bow and arrow.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the symbol of the Indian National Lok Dal?

    <p>A pair of spectacles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The party that seeks to secure the interest and welfare of the dalits and oppressed classes is the __________.

    <p>Bahujan Samaj Party</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The symbol of the Biju Janata Dal is a ______.

    <p>conch</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a feature of the Bharatiya Janata Party?

    <p>Promotion of social justice (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one major characteristic of the National Congress Party?

    <p>It stands for social justice.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which regional party is associated with the cycle symbol?

    <p>Manipur People’s Party (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following political parties with their primary focus:

    <p>Bharatiya Janata Party = Cultural nationalism National Congress Party = Secularism and welfare Bahujan Samaj Party = Welfare of dalits and oppressed classes Indian National Congress = Freedom struggle and democracy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following regional political parties with their symbols:

    <p>Uttarakhand Kranti Dal = chair Nagaland People’s Front = cock Sikkim Democratic Front = umbrella Shiv Sena = bow and arrow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    India adopted a multiparty system due to its uniform social and geographical diversity.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The National Congress Party is a major party in Maharashtra and a coalition partner with the __________.

    <p>Congress</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one challenge political parties face all over the world.

    <p>Lack of internal democracy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major issue associated with political parties regarding leadership?

    <p>Concentration of power in few leaders (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dynastic succession is beneficial for democracy.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What have wealthy individuals and companies been known to do in elections?

    <p>Influence decision-making processes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Political parties often do not keep __________ registers.

    <p>membership</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following challenges to political parties with their descriptions:

    <p>Dynastic Succession = Power is concentrated within select families Money Power = Wealthy candidates influencing elections Muscle Power = Support from individuals with criminal backgrounds Lack of Transparency = Open procedures are rarely practiced</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a practice that has been implemented to reform political parties in India?

    <p>Candidates must present affidavits disclosing properties and pending cases (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Parties regularly conduct internal elections.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one result of parties favoring certain individuals for leadership positions?

    <p>Lack of opportunities for ordinary workers to rise to top positions.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant challenge posed by dynastic succession in Indian political parties?

    <p>Unfairness to non-family members (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dynastic succession leads to greater internal democracy within political parties.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do state or regional political parties contribute to democracy in India?

    <p>By providing diverse choices and a platform for social groups to voice their demands.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    State and regional political parties provide a variety of ______ to people as each has different agendas.

    <p>choice</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following components related to political parties:

    <p>Dynastic Succession = Lack of internal democracy State Parties = Variety of choices for voters Coalition Government = Power sharing Unfair Leadership Practices = Favoring family members</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT one of the three components of a political party?

    <p>Legislators (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A multi-party system means that voters have more choices compared to a one-party system.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one ideology of the Bhartiya Janata Party?

    <p>It wants full territorial and political integration of Jammu and Kashmir with India.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A political party is an association of people who come together to ____ elections.

    <p>contest</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following party systems with their characteristics:

    <p>One-party system = No choice for voters Two-party system = Power shifts between two parties Multi-party system = Can lead to political instability Democratic system = Provides a choice for voters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately represents a challenge in a two-party system?

    <p>It often leads to voters having limited choices. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The Bhartiya Janata Party supports banning religious conversions in India.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one feature of the active members in a political party.

    <p>They attend party meetings and assist the party leaders.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one role of political parties in a democratic society?

    <p>They shape public opinion on relevant issues. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Political parties provide easier access to government machinery for ordinary citizens.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to political parties when they lose an election?

    <p>They become the opposition party.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Without political parties, elected candidates would be __________ and unable to make policies.

    <p>independent</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match each function of political parties with its corresponding description:

    <p>Making laws = Debating and passing legislation Running government = Preparing councils of ministers Providing access = Connecting citizens with welfare schemes Opposition role = Criticizing ruling party's policies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the necessity for political parties increase in the last hundred years?

    <p>Many countries gained independence and adopted democratic governments. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Having no political parties leads to a stable and organized government.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major consequence of not having political parties in a democracy?

    <p>It would lead to chaos and a lack of accountability.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Political party influence on public opinion

    Political parties shape public opinion by highlighting problems, mobilizing members, and launching movements, often aligning with public sentiment.

    BJP's inspiration

    The Bharatiya Janata Party draws inspiration from India's traditional culture and values.

    BJP features

    The BJP advocates for complete integration of Jammu and Kashmir, a uniform civil code, a ban on religious conversions, and cultural nationalism.

    NCP's focus

    The National Congress Party prioritizes secularism and the welfare of marginalized groups.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    NCP features

    NCP's policies include restricting high governmental positions to citizens, promoting social justice, and supporting the federal system.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BSP inspiration

    The Bahujan Samaj Party is inspired by Sahu Maharaj's teachings and emphasizes the interests of the Dalits and oppressed.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BSP features

    The BSP prioritizes the welfare of dalits and the oppressed classes.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Political party impact

    Ways political parties can influence and shape public opinion.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Multiparty System (India)

    A political system in India where multiple parties compete for power, leading to potentially coalition governments.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Parties (Punjab)

    Shiromani Akali Dal is a prominent regional party in Punjab, using the scales symbol in elections.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Haryana)

    Indian National Lok Dal, a key regional party in Haryana, uses a pair of spectacles as its election symbol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Jharkhand)

    Jharkhand Mukti Morcha is a major regional party in Jharkhand, using a bow and arrow.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Maharashtra)

    Shiv Sena is a noteworthy regional party in Maharashtra, using a bow and arrow in its symbol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Orissa)

    Biju Janata Dal is a significant regional party in Orissa represented by a conch symbol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Sikkim)

    Sikkim Democratic Front is a leading party in Sikkim using an umbrella as its symbol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Regional Party (Nagaland)

    Nagaland People's Front is a crucial regional party in Nagaland, using a cock as its symbol.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Dynastic Succession in Parties

    A situation where leadership positions within a political party are consistently held by members of the same family.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Challenges to Open Party Processes

    Political parties may not have transparent procedures, limiting opportunities for ordinary members to advance.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Money and Muscle Power in Elections

    The use of financial resources and intimidation to influence election outcomes by parties.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Party Centralization of Power

    A trend where power in a political party is concentrated in the hands of a few top leaders.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Lack of Internal Party Democracy

    Political parties not holding regular membership drives, organizational meetings, and internal elections.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Supreme Court Affidavit for Candidates

    Court-mandated disclosure requirements for candidates, including details on property and pending legal cases.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Political Party Reform Efforts

    Efforts made by legal organizations to improve the conduct of political parties in India.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Money and Muscle Power Influence

    The potential for wealthy individuals or companies to influence elections, as well as the use of intimidation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a political party?

    A political party is a group of people who come together to contest elections and try to win power in the government. They have shared ideas and programs for how to run the country.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BJP's ideology: Integration

    The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) believes that Jammu and Kashmir should be fully integrated into India in both territory and politics.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BJP's ideology: Culture

    The BJP wants to build a strong and modern India but also wants to draw inspiration from India's ancient culture and values.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    BJP's ideology: Uniform Civil Code

    The BJP believes that everyone in India should have the same laws about family matters, regardless of their religion.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    One-party system

    A one-party system is when only one political party is allowed to run for government. Voters have no choice.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Two-party system

    A two-party system is when two major political parties dominate, and power usually switches between them.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Multiparty system

    A multiparty system has several political parties, which can lead to complex alliances and sometimes instability.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Ideal Party System?

    No one party system is perfect for every country and every situation. Each system has its own strengths and weaknesses.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Role of political parties in lawmaking

    Political parties influence the creation of laws by directing their members in legislature, regardless of personal opinions.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Government formation by political parties

    Political parties play a crucial role in setting up and running a government by recruiting leaders and forming a council of ministers.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Access to government services

    Political parties provide easier access to government services and welfare schemes for citizens.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Role of the opposition party

    The party that loses an election becomes the opposition, scrutinizing the ruling party's policies and ensuring checks and balances.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Importance of political parties in democracy

    Political parties are essential for a functioning democracy as they shape public opinion, fostering a sense of participation and debate.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why few countries had political parties a century ago

    A hundred years ago, few countries had political parties because they were not democratic, making political parties unnecessary.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why most countries have political parties now

    Many countries gained independence and adopted democratic systems, resulting in the rise of political parties.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Chaos without political parties

    The absence of political parties could lead to disorder and instability within a society, contradicting democratic principles.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a problem with dynastic succession in political parties?

    Dynastic succession, where power is passed down within families in political parties, can be harmful to democracy in India. It often results in a lack of transparency, unfair advantages for family members, and a lack of experience or popular support for leaders. It also undermines internal democracy, as those who disagree with the leadership struggle to be heard or remain in the party.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How do regional parties impact Indian democracy?

    Regional parties play a crucial role in Indian democracy by offering more diverse choices for voters, representing the interests of specific communities and regions, and contributing to power-sharing through coalition governments.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the benefit of multiple parties in a democracy?

    Multiple parties in a democracy provide voters with a range of options. Each party presents its own ideology and agenda, allowing voters to choose a party that best aligns with their beliefs. This diversity leads to a more representative government.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How do regional parties help in federalism?

    Regional parties help to strengthen federalism in India by ensuring the voices and interests of different regions and communities are represented in the government. This helps to maintain a balance of power between the central government and the states.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are the arguments against dynastic succession?

    Dynastic succession in political parties often leads to a lack of transparency, internal democracy, and accountability. It unfairly benefits family members, regardless of their qualifications or popular support. It also creates a barrier for deserving individuals who may not have familial connections to rise within the party.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Political Parties

    • Political parties shape public opinion by highlighting issues, enlisting member support across the country, and initiating movements. Public opinion often mirrors party stances.
    • The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) draws inspiration from ancient Indian culture and values. Key features include full territorial integration of Jammu and Kashmir, a uniform civil code, and a ban on religious conversions. Hindutva is a core component.
    • The Indian National Congress Party (INC) advocates for secularism and minority/weaker sections' welfare. Key features include preference for natural-born citizens in high office, social justice, federalism, and a presence in key states like Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Manipur, and Assam. The INC is a member of the United Progressive Alliance.
    • The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) draws inspiration from Sahu Maharaj. It aims to uplift Dalits and marginalized groups, representing other backward castes, and religious minorities, and derives inspiration from leaders like Mahatma Phule, Periyar, Ramaswami Naicker, and Dr. Ambedkar.
    • A political party is a coalition of individuals seeking political power through elections, united by shared policies. Key components include leaders, active members, and followers.

    Types of Party Systems

    • A multiparty system has several parties contesting elections. India adopts this due to its diverse social and geographical makeup, allowing various viewpoints representation.
    • In a multi-party system, power often alternates between multiple parties through coalition government. A clear decision-making and implementation process is ensured, however this system sometimes results in a messy and unstable government.
    • The three main features of a two-party system include power changes between the two dominant parties, the winner forming the government and the loser acting as major opposition, and a prompt and efficient decision-making process.

    Challenges to Political Parties

    • Internal Democracy: Lack of internal democracy is a major challenge in political parties worldwide. The focus of power often lies with a select few leaders, rather than involving all party members in decision-making. Membership registers aren't kept regularly, and information isn't readily shared within the organization. This often leads to the party not adequately representing perspectives other than those of the leadership.
    • Dynastic Succession: The tendency for power to remain within a single family within a party is a significant challenge. Top leaders may favor family members, often overlooking individuals with experience or wider popularity, creating a less democratic environment for party leadership.
    • Money and Muscle Power: Financial clout and intimidation tactics can contribute to party success or gain. This trend distorts the democratic outcome, as candidates with considerable wealth and potentially criminal backgrounds gain election advantages.
    • Lack of meaningful voter choice: In some political systems, parties lack significant ideological differences, which can leave voters without meaningful choices between different parties.

    Reforms for Political Parties

    • Anti-defection laws are implemented to curb the switching of elected officials between political parties, aimed at reducing political instability.
    • Supreme Court rulings mandate candidates submit affidavits concerning property and pending legal cases, intending to limit the influence of money and criminal records in electoral processes.
    • The Election Commission mandate organizational elections and income tax filing for parties is meant to enhance transparency and accountability.

    Functions of Political Parties

    • Parties contest elections.
    • They formulate policies and programs.
    • Parties play a crucial role in forming and running governments.
    • They advocate for policies to the government.
    • Political parties provide a platform for interests and opinions, and help mobilize voters.
    • They shape public opinion.

    Regional Parties

    • State or regional parties focus on local issues and concerns in specific regions of a country.

    Role of Parties in Democracy

    • Political parties are essential for a functioning democracy. They provide a crucial link between citizens and government by translating public interests into policy proposals.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Description

    Explore the pivotal roles of major political parties in India, including BJP, INC, and BSP. Understand their ideologies, key features, and impact on public opinion and governance. This quiz delves into the nuances that shape Indian politics today.

    More Like This

    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser