Question -
Answer -
In the first decade of electoral politics, India did not have a recognised opposition party. But some of the vibrant and diverse opposition parties had come into being even before the first General Election of 1952 as the non-Congress parties. Hence, the roots of almost all the non-Congress parties of today can be traced to one or the other of the opposition parties of the 1950s.
All these opposition parties gained only a representation, still, their presence played a crucial role in maintaining a democratic character of the system. Hence due to following reasons two party system is required for successful democracy:
- Within two-party systems, the opposition party offers a sustained and principled criticism of policies and practices of the ruling party keeping it under a strict check.
- By keeping democratic political alternative alive, these parties prevented the resentment with the system from turning anti-democratic.
On the basis of above-mentioned features it is justifiable to have a two-party system which has the following advantages:
- India has arrived at more competitive politics.
- Political parties act within the spheres of consensus.
- New forms, vision, pathways of development have been identified.
- Issues like poverty, displacement, minimum wages, livelihood and social security are being put on political agenda.
- Issues of justice and democracy are being voiced by various classes, castes and regions to remind states its responsibility.