Question

State the various functions political parties perform in a democracy.

Answer 1

The various functions of the political parties in a democracy are:

1. Contest elections: In democracies, political parties contest elections by nominating candidates. Candidates are picked in a variety of methods. In India, senior party leaders nominate candidates for elections.
2. Put forward different policies and programmes: During elections, political parties present their own beliefs and programmes to voters in the form of a manifesto.
3. Role in making laws for a country: Laws are passed in accordance with the directives of the ruling party or alliance, in the case of a coalition administration. Members of political parties vote in the legislature based on party decisions, regardless of personal opinions.
4. Formation of governments: The government is formed and administered by majority parties or groupings. In a parliamentary democracy, the government is referred to by the party name, such as Congress or BJP.
5. Role of opposition: Political parties that lose elections serve as opponents to the government. They criticise the administration for its failures or poor policies.
6. Role in shaping public opinion: Political parties organise movements to support public-interest problems.
7. Access to government machinery and welfare schemes: Ordinary citizens approach local party leaders with their demands and dissatisfaction. Local party leaders must respond to the needs and expectations of the people. Otherwise, voters might reject these parties in the next election.