Party System and Party Politics in India

Abstract

This chapter examines works and writings related to the history of the party system and party politics in India. It focuses on causes, nature, and consequences of the transformation of the party system. It also discusses the ideology, support base, and vote mobilization strategies of parties. The chapter elucidates the emergence of a coalitional multiparty system and the rise of ideological differences in the mobilization of party support based on appeals to caste, religion, region, and ethnicity.