Opinion: Opinion | Why Indian Parties Are Beginning To Look Like Political 'Spare Parts'
This opinion piece argues that Indian political parties are increasingly securing 'unopposed' victories through strategic pressure and candidate withdrawals. The author suggests this trend undermines the traditional democratic process of competitive elections.
Why it matters
It raises concerns about the health of democratic institutions and the potential erosion of electoral competition in India.
In the old imagination of Indian democracy, a seat was won after a campaign. The candidate filed nomination papers, voters listened to speeches, caste elders made their calculations, party workers fought over polling booths, and the Election Commission announced the result. Today, in several corners of the Republic, the more advanced practitioners of politics are trying something more efficient: win before the voter gets a chance to vote.
The piece uses critical language regarding current electoral management practices, reflecting a skeptical view of the ruling party's tactics.
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