IGNOUMATIC

Since the late 1980s, there have been significant changes in the party systems in India’s states. These changes are marked by the rise of regional political parties, shifting alignments, and the emergence of new political issues that have reshaped the way elections are contested and the structure of the political landscape in the states. This transformation is a reflection of the growing diversity, regional aspirations, and the evolution of Indian federalism. Below is an analysis of the key reasons for these changes:

1. Emergence of Regional Parties

One of the most significant changes in the party system at the state level has been the rise of regional parties. The post-1980s period saw the growing assertion of regional identities, which led to the formation of political parties that focused on state-specific issues. These parties have challenged the dominance of national parties, like the Indian National Congress (INC) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), at the state level.

• Regionalism and State Autonomy: Regional parties have capitalized on the growing sentiment for greater regional autonomy and the desire to address local issues. The rise of parties like the AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) in Tamil Nadu, the TMC (Trinamool Congress) in West Bengal, and the SP (Samajwadi Party) in Uttar Pradesh reflects the demand for a political voice that is more in tune with the concerns of regional populations.
• Identity Politics: Many regional parties have been able to mobilize voters around cultural, linguistic, or ethnic identities. For example, the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra has leveraged Marathi identity and the demand for regional pride, while the BJD (Biju Janata Dal) in Odisha has focused on the state’s development and its distinctive cultural heritage.

2. Decline of Congress at the State Level

The decline of the Indian National Congress (INC) at the state level since the late 1980s is a critical factor in the evolution of state party systems. The Congress was historically the dominant party in Indian politics, particularly at the state level, with a strong presence in most regions. However, since the 1980s, the party has faced significant setbacks.

• Internal Leadership Crisis: The leadership crisis within the Congress, especially after the death of Indira Gandhi in 1984, led to factionalism and a loss of direction. The inability to provide strong, consistent leadership at the regional level has allowed regional parties to fill the vacuum.
• Weakening of Congress’ Appeal: The Congress’s appeal to diverse communities and its “nationalist” agenda began to lose ground in states, particularly where regional aspirations took precedence. In states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal, Congress was replaced by regional parties that were better able to address local issues.

3. Electoral Reforms and the Impact of Coalition Politics

The changes in India’s party system have also been driven by electoral reforms, which have had an impact on the way political alliances are formed at the state level.

• First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) System and Fragmentation: The FPTP system, which rewards the party with the most votes, has contributed to political fragmentation at the state level. In many states, no single party has been able to secure an absolute majority, leading to the rise of coalition governments. This has led to a shift towards more fragmented party systems, with the need for regional parties to play a crucial role in forming governments.
• Electoral Laws: Electoral laws, including the Anti-Defection Law (52nd Amendment, 1985), which aims to prevent the shifting of party allegiances, have also impacted state party systems. These laws have led to the formation of more stable, albeit coalition-based, governments.

4. Decline of Congress and the Rise of the BJP

The BJP‘s rise as a dominant force at the national level, especially after the early 1990s, has also had a ripple effect on state politics. The BJP’s appeal has largely been based on Hindu nationalism, which resonated with large sections of the population across the country, including in many states.

• Hindutva and Nationalist Appeals: The BJP’s promotion of the Hindutva ideology has helped it make inroads into states where regional identity politics had previously dominated. The party has successfully built alliances with regional parties to expand its reach and increase its influence at the state level.
• State-Level BJP Strength: Over time, the BJP has established itself as a major player in state politics, especially in northern and western India. The party’s success in states like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Haryana reflects the shift in the political balance at the state level towards a more nationalized form of politics.

5. Political Realignments and Coalition Governments

The 1980s and 1990s also saw the emergence of coalition politics at both the state and national levels. Following the decline of single-party dominance, there has been a growing trend towards coalition governments. This shift has been especially prominent in states where no single party has been able to establish a clear majority.

• Coalition Politics and Regional Influence: Coalitions have made it difficult for any single party to dominate state politics. In states like Bihar, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu, coalition politics has brought regional parties to the forefront. These parties have been able to build strategic alliances with national parties (such as the BJP or Congress), as well as with other regional parties, to form government.
• Regional Parties as Kingmakers: In coalition politics, regional parties often play the role of “kingmakers.” For example, parties like the AIADMK in Tamil Nadu and TMC in West Bengal have played a key role in both state and national politics by aligning with national parties as needed.

6. Influence of Economic and Development Issues

Economic issues have become increasingly important in shaping party systems at the state level. The demand for development, the promise of jobs, infrastructure, education, and healthcare has influenced political campaigns.

• Development Agenda: In many states, the success or failure of a political party in power has been judged based on its ability to deliver on economic promises. Parties like the BJP in Gujarat under Narendra Modi have successfully promoted themselves as champions of economic development, which has given them a significant edge in state elections.
• Agrarian Crisis and Rural Issues: In states with large agrarian populations, the agrarian crisis and issues related to farmers’ welfare have become central to party politics. Parties like the SP in Uttar Pradesh and RJD in Bihar have capitalized on agrarian distress to build support among rural voters.

7. Role of Caste and Identity Politics

Caste-based parties, which gained strength in the 1990s, continue to play a central role in shaping state-level party systems. Mandal politics, which focused on the promotion of OBC rights, has reshaped political alliances and voting patterns.

• Caste Mobilization: The BSP (Bahujan Samaj Party) and RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal) have been successful in mobilizing lower-caste and Dalit votes, while parties like the SP and JD(U) have relied on OBC and Yadav support. These parties often build their campaigns around the demands and concerns of specific caste groups.

Conclusion The changes in the party systems of Indian states since the late 1980s have been driven by the rise of regional parties, the decline of Congress at the state level, the impact of coalition politics, and the increasing importance of economic and development issues. The party systems in the states have become more fragmented and dynamic, with regional parties playing an increasingly important role. The evolving nature of federalism, combined with the growing salience of caste, religion, and regional identity, will continue to shape the party systems in Indian states in the future.