Chapter 3: Electoral Politics:
Introduction
Electoral Politics: Elections are a crucial part of democracy, allowing people to choose their representatives and hold them accountable.
This chapter explains why elections are essential, how they work, and what makes them democratic.
3.1 Why Elections?
Purpose of Elections:
Elections allow people to choose who will make laws, form the government, and make decisions on their behalf.
They also let people remove leaders who do not perform well.
Importance of Elections in Democracy: Elections provide a system where people can change their leaders regularly, ensuring that leaders act in the citizens' interest.
3.2 What is Our System of Elections?
Constituencies:
India is divided into different areas called constituencies, each of which elects one representative.
Lok Sabha Constituencies: India has 543 Lok Sabha constituencies, each represented by a Member of Parliament (MP).
Assembly Constituencies: States are divided into Assembly constituencies, each represented by a Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA).
Reserved Constituencies:
Some constituencies are reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) to ensure fair representation for disadvantaged groups.
Voters’ List:
A list of all eligible voters, also called the Electoral Roll. All citizens aged 18 and above can vote, provided they are registered on this list.
Nomination of Candidates:
Any citizen aged 25 or above can stand for election by filling out a nomination form.
Candidates must declare their financial assets, criminal records, and educational qualifications.
3.3 Election Campaigns
Campaigning:
Candidates and political parties promote themselves and their policies to gain public support.
Campaigns focus on major issues, with slogans to attract voters (e.g., "Garibi Hatao" by the Congress Party).
Campaign Regulations:
To ensure fair competition, certain activities are prohibited during campaigns, like bribing voters, using government resources, and appealing to voters based on caste or religion.
3.4 Polling and Counting of Votes
Polling Day: On election day, voters go to polling booths to cast their votes using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
Counting of Votes: After polling, votes are counted, and the candidate with the highest votes in each constituency wins.
3.5 What Makes Elections in India Democratic?
Independent Election Commission:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) ensures free and fair elections. It has wide-ranging powers and is independent of the government.
People’s Participation:
Voter turnout in India is high, with a large number of citizens actively participating in elections.
Acceptance of Election Outcomes:
In India, the results of elections are generally respected, with losing parties accepting the people’s verdict, which shows public trust in the election process.
Challenges to Fair Elections:
Issues like money power, muscle power, and influence of powerful families affect fairness.
Despite these challenges, India’s electoral system remains largely democratic, reflecting the will of the people.
