Party System
The party system in India is neither Western nor indigenous. Explain . UPSC 2014 Paper 2A Qn 1a The party system in India is described as neither entirely Western nor fully indigenous because it embodies a unique hybrid structure, blending elements of both imported models and native socio-political realities. It reflects the nation's diverse socio-cultural conditions, its historical evolution, and the need to reconcile modern democratic principles with traditional forms of organization and governance. Western influence on the Indian Party system - India's party system is adopted based on the inspiration of the British Parliamentary system. India owes features like free and fair elections, democratic governance, etc., to the British. However, it is later adapted to fit the local needs. Morris Jones termed Indian democracy as "the third world model", suggesting that while it is inspired by the British model, it functions under conditions that pay attention not...