Answer

Introduction:

Since the 1990s, coalition governments have become a defining characteristic of Indian politics. This shift from single-party dominance to coalition politics has reshaped the political landscape. For instance, in the 2024 general elections, no political party won an absolute majority, highlighting the fragmented mandate that necessitates coalition politics.

Body:

Evolution of Coalition Governments in India:

• 1990s Onwards:
  • Decline of Congress Dominance: The 1989 elections marked the end of Congress’s uninterrupted rule since independence.
    For example: The National Front government (1989-1991) was the first non-Congress coalition government at the center.
  • Rise of Regional Parties: Regional parties’ vote share increased from 24% in 1991 to 40% in 2019.
    For example: Parties like the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) became crucial coalition partners.
• Dynamics and Features:
  • Formation of Alliances: The United Front government (1996-1998) was a coalition of 13 parties.
    For example: The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA).
  • Frequent Government Changes: Between 1989 and 1999, India saw six different Prime Ministers.
    For example: The Vajpayee government lasted only 13 days in 1996 due to lack of majority support.

Factors for the Rise of Coalition Governments in India:

• Fragmentation of the Electorate: National parties’ combined vote share fell from 70% in the 1980s to 50% in recent elections.
  For example: Regional parties like the TMC, AIADMK, and BJD gained significant influence.
• Federal Structure and Regional Aspirations: Growth of regional parties representing state-specific issues.
  For example: Parties like the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and the Akali Dal in Punjab.
• Coalition Culture and Political Compromises: Alliances necessary to secure a majority.
  For example: BJP’s alliances with various regional parties in the NDA.
• Strategic Alliances and Power Sharing: Alliances formed to expand voter base and political reach.
  For example: Congress and NCP alliance in Maharashtra, BJP and JD(U) in Bihar.

Impact on the Functioning of the Indian Political System:

• Positive Impacts:
  • Inclusive Governance: Representation of diverse interests in government.
    For instance: Regional parties influence national policies and advocates for the inclusion of regional demands in the budget.
  • Policy Innovation and Regional Development: It involves crafting tailored policies that address the specific needs of different regions. This approach ensures that diverse local challenges are effectively managed, promoting balanced and inclusive development across the country.
    For example: Special economic packages for states like Bihar and West Bengal.
  • Strengthening Federalism: Greater decentralization and state autonomy.
    For example: State-specific schemes like Rythu Bandhu in Telangana.
• Negative Impacts:
  • Policy Paralysis and Instability: Frequent conflicts among coalition partners.
    For example: The fall of the Vajpayee government in 1999 due to coalition infighting.
  • Compromise on Governance and Policy Implementation: Policies diluted to accommodate coalition demands.
    For example: Delays in GST implementation due to coalition disagreements.
  • Rise of Opportunistic Politics: Parties prioritise political gains over national interests.
    For example: Alliances are formed for electoral benefits rather than ideological alignment.

Measures to Overcome Negatives:

• Common Minimum Programme (CMP): Formulating a CMP to ensure coherent policy direction.
  For example: The UPA’s CMP provided a balanced governance framework.
• Strengthening Institutional Mechanisms: Better coordination and conflict resolution among coalition partners.
  For example: Regular inter-party consultations and a coalition management framework.
• Promoting Political Accountability and Transparency: Enforcing accountability measures for responsible governance.
  For example: Legislative measures to prevent frequent defections.

Conclusion:

The rise of coalition governments in India has brought inclusivity and complexity to the political system. While it has fostered greater representation and strengthened federalism, it has also led to policy paralysis and instability. Adopting measures like a Common Minimum Programme, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and promoting political accountability can mitigate the negatives, ensuring that coalition governments contribute positively to India’s democratic governance.