The role of political parties in Indian democracy

The role of political parties in Indian democracy

          Political parties are indispensable for the working of a democratic government. A political party comprises members who hold similar views on national, political and economic problems. India is multi religious country and there is diversity of culture among the people. Therefore, there is a multi party democracy in India. In advanced democratic countries there are usually two parties and there is discipline and smooth control of the leaders over the network of a political party. It is impossible to think of democracy without political parties having their own agenda for the betterment of the people. However, the political parties in India are not formed on any political or economic programmes. Unfortunately they do not play constructive role for the betterment of the people. Here political parties are formed on caste, communal and religious basis which give rise to unethical politics in the country. Their primary interest is to promote the interest of their own communities and regions which is definitely harmful to the integrity of the country. Their aim is to win election at any cost and form the government. Inspite of anti defection law, defections are the order of the day. They are in an advantageous stage when there are coalition governments in the centre as well as in the states. They blackmail the largest party by extracting maximum benefits without sharing responsibility. They are not bothered about the national consequences of their misdeeds. Today most of the political parties are trying to grab power by fair or foul means. A common citizen is taken for a ride. The granddaughter of Ex-Prime Minister is allotted a house at the cost of poor citizens. The more leaders, the more expenditure. An Ex-Prime Minister, V.P. Singh undergoes treatment abroad and the security of the country accompanies him. The poor children die for lack of treatment but the leaders travel abroad for medical treatment. Politicians involved in scandals get bailed while a common man with a charge of theft of a bi-cycle is languishing in jail. The ministers get Five star treatment in jails while the common man is deiced even the basic facilities. One can definitely say that political parties in India have not played a healthy role for the development of democracy.