A political party is a voluntary association of individuals who agree on some policies and try to implement them by winning people's support through election. Political parties are the backbone of democracy. India became a democratic country in 1950, and a vibrant democracy needs a strong political party system. The party system is a modern phenomenon.
1. From Kings to Democracy
- In earlier times, emperors and kings ruled India. The king was the supreme head of the Legislative, Executive and Judiciary branches.
- Governance was in the hands of one person; the welfare of the people depended on the ruler, and people had no rights to act against the ruler.
- Later, foreign powers made India their colonies. After Independence was declared, the colonies became states.
- In 1950, India became a democratic country. In a democracy, people are able to voice their opinions on any subject.
- The modern age is an age of mass society and large population, and the party system is a modern phenomenon.