Topic: Salient features of the Representation of People’s Act.
Q3. Explain the significance of internal party democracy in a parliamentary system. Discuss the factors that hinder its effective institutionalisation in India. (15 M)
Difficulty Level: Medium
Reference: IE
Why the question
Recent debates on defections, dynastic leadership and organisational crises in political parties have highlighted the importance of strengthening democratic functioning within parties for the effective working of India’s parliamentary democracy.
Key Demand of the question
The question requires explaining the significance of internal party democracy in a parliamentary system and examining the factors that obstruct its effective institutionalisation in India. It also requires suggesting suitable measures to strengthen democratic practices within political parties.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly explain the central role of political parties in a parliamentary democracy and how their internal functioning influences democratic governance and accountability.
Body
- Significance of internal party democracy: Explain how democratic functioning within parties contributes to representation, accountability, leadership development and effective parliamentary governance.
- Factors hindering institutionalisation: Discuss the structural, organisational, legal and political factors that weaken internal democracy in Indian political parties.
- Way forward: Suggest institutional, legal and organisational reforms to strengthen democratic functioning within political parties.
Conclusion
Highlight that deepening democracy within political parties is essential for strengthening democratic institutions, improving governance quality and enhancing public trust in the political system.
