THE CONTEXT: The elections on July 10, 2024, in seven states of India, have shown a change in the scene. The parties forming the INDIA bloc managed to win 10 out of 13 Assembly seats, showing an increasing opposition to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and reflecting a feeling of weariness towards the ruling party.
THE ISSUES:
Voter Fatigue with the BJP: The results of the elections show that voters are becoming less enthused about the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). This feeling mirrors what we saw in the Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP didn’t manage to win a majority, indicating that the party strategies are facing challenges among the public.
Rejection of Opportunistic Defections: The voters have disapproved of politicians switching sides for gain. For example, in Himachal Pradesh, the Congress secured victory in two out of three seats left vacant by candidates who moved to the BJP. Likewise, in Uttarakhand, the Congress successfully defended the Badrinath seat against a member who switched allegiance to the BJP. This pattern underscores voters’ aversion to opportunism and their inclination towards consistency and allegiance.
Regional Variations in Political Fortunes: Though Congress and its partners saw success in some states, they still encountered difficulties in some areas. For example, in Madhya Pradesh, the BJP emerged victorious after a former Congress member switched sides, highlighting the need for the Congress to focus on enhancing leadership and bolstering regional tactics.
Strengthening of Regional Parties: The recent election outcomes also highlighted parties’ dominance. The Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), in Tamil Nadu and the Trinamool Congress (TMC) in West Bengal solidified their influence by securing victories. This indicates that regional parties maintain control within their states, sometimes overshadowing parties such as the BJP.
Impact on Coalition Politics: The outcomes hold significance for coalition politics in India. The triumphs of the INDIA alliance (comprising opposition parties) in constituencies indicate an alteration in the political scenario, where coalitions are becoming pivotal in challenging the supremacy of the BJP. This evolution is expected to shape tactics and partnerships.
THE WAY FORWARD:
Strengthening Anti-Defection Laws: Amend the Tenth Schedule to include stricter timelines for the Speaker to decide on defection cases, ideally within three months. The Supreme Court in Kihoto Hollohan vs. Zachillhu (1992) upheld the validity of the anti-defection law but emphasized the need for timely decisions.
Promoting Inner-Party Democracy: To reduce defections and enhance party stability, political parties should promote inner-party democracy, allowing for transparent and democratic decision-making processes within the party. Law Commission of India (255th Report) advocated for statutory backing to internal democracy within political parties, including regular elections for party positions and candidate selection.
Electoral Reforms for Transparency and Accountability: Article 324 empowers the Election Commission to conduct free and fair elections. Strengthening the Election Commission’s powers can ensure better enforcement of electoral laws. Second Administrative Reforms Commission recommended state funding of elections to reduce money’s influence and provide a level playing field.
Public Awareness and Voter Education: Educating voters about the implications of defections and the importance of their vote can lead to more informed electoral choices and reduce opportunistic defections. The Election Commission of India should launch voter education campaigns focusing on the impact of defections and the importance of voting for stable governance.
Judicial Oversight and Fast-Track Courts: Article 136 allows the Supreme Court to grant special leave to appeal against any judgment, decree, determination, sentence, or order. This can be extended to fast-track defection cases. The Supreme Court in Rajendra Singh Rana vs. Swami Prasad Maurya (2007) emphasized the need for quick resolution of defection cases to maintain the sanctity of the legislative process.
THE CONCLUSION:
The by-poll results are a critical reminder for all political parties to heed the electorate’s voice, seek consensus, and avoid opportunistic defections. The victories of the INDIA bloc in these by-polls underscore the importance of addressing local leadership issues and maintaining voter trust.
UPSC PAST YEAR QUESTIONS:
Q.1 Discuss the role of Presiding Officers of state legislatures in maintaining order and impartiality in conducting legislative work and facilitating best democratic practices. 2023
Q.2 “There is a need to simplify the procedure for disqualifying persons found guilty of corrupt practices under the Representation of Peoples Act.” Comment. 2020
Q.3 The Indian party system is passing through a transition phase full of contradictions and paradoxes.” Discuss. 2016
MAINS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q.1 The recent by-poll results in India have shown a trend of voters rejecting political defectors in several states. Analyze the implications of this trend on political stability and the anti-defection law in India.
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