ELECTORAL POLITICS
Why Election?
1. To Choose Representatives:- In a democracy, people don’t make laws directly. Instead, they elect leaders who make decisions on their behalf.
2. To Form a Government:- Elections help in choosing the government. The party (or coalition) that wins the majority forms the ruling government.
3. To Ensure Accountability:- If leaders don’t perform well, people can vote them out in the next election. This keeps leaders answerable to the public.
4. To Give People a Voice:- Elections give every citizen the right to express their opinion through voting.
Everyone’s vote is equal, regardless of their status or background.
5. To Keep Democracy Alive:- Without elections, there would be no way to change leaders peacefully. Elections are the heartbeat of democracy — they keep the system working fairly.
Assembly Election in Haryana :- In 1987, a major movement in Haryana was led by Devi Lal, a prominent farmer leader and politician.
The 1987 Movement in Haryana:
- Devi Lal launched a "Nyaya Yudh" (Justice Movement).
- He promised to give a clean government and support to farmers and poor people.
- His campaign gained massive public support.
What Happened in the 1987 Elections?
- The people of Haryana were unhappy with the ruling government.
- Devi Lal’s party won the state election with a huge majority.
- He became the Chief Minister of Haryana.
Why Do We Need Elections?
- Choice of leadership: People can choose who will represent them.
- Change of leadership: If people are unhappy, they can elect someone new.
- Accountability: Leaders are accountable to the people because they can be voted out.
What Makes an Election Democratic?
- Free and fair elections: No cheating, pressure, or unfair advantages.
- Regular elections: Held every few years.
- Universal adult franchise: Every citizen above 18 can vote.
- Right to contest: Everyone has the right to stand in elections.
Is Political Competition is Good:
1. Gives People a Choice
Multiple parties and candidates mean people can choose the best one.
Voters can compare policies, promises, and performance.
2. Leaders Work Harder
To win elections, parties and leaders work sincerely for the public.
They try to solve problems and fulfill promises.
3. Keeps Government Accountable
If the ruling party does not perform well, people can vote them out.
It creates a pressure to perform better.
4. Encourages Debate and Ideas
Different parties bring different views and solutions.
This leads to healthy discussions on national issues.
There Are Some Drawbacks Too:
1. Use of Unfair Means
Sometimes parties use money, muscle power, or fake promises.
2. Too Much Focus on Winning
Parties may focus only on winning elections, not on real issues.
3. Divisive Tactics
Some leaders use religion, caste, or language to divide people.
How Do Elections Take Place in India?
Constituencies: The country is divided into areas called constituencies. One representative is elected from each.
Voters' List: List of all eligible voters is prepared.
Nomination of Candidates: Political parties or individuals file nominations.
Election Campaign: Candidates promote themselves, share plans, and ask for votes.
Polling and Counting: Voting is done through EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines). Votes are counted and the winner is declared.
Genral Election:- Election held every 5 years.
By-Election:- Sometimes election is held only for one constituency to fill the vacancy caused by death or regisnation of a member.
What Makes Elections in India Democratic?
1. Universal Adult Franchise
2. Regular Elections
3. Free and Fair Elections
4. Independent Election Commission (ECI)
5. Right to Contest
6. Secret Ballot
7. Level Playing Field:- All political parties have the right to campaign and reach out to voters.
There are rules to ensure fair competition.
Challenges to Free and Fair Elections in India
1.Use of Money Power
2.Use of Muscle Power
3.Fake or Bogus Voting
4.Misuse of Government Resources
5.Unfair Media Influence
6.False Promises & Vote-Buying
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