The Newsletter 64 Summer 2013

Indian federalism: the need to look beyond coalition politics

Tridivesh Singh Maini

One of the major changes in Indian politics over the last decade and a half has been the ever rising relevance of certain regional parties – and thus states – in India’s political landscape. Many believe the development has strengthened Indian federalism. The fact that no national party – whether the BJP or Congress – is in a position to form a government on its own, is often cited as the primary reason for such a situation. It has aptly been stated in this context, that “Since 1996, regional parties have become indispensable in the formation of government at the national level. They have been important partners in the coalitions that came to power after 1996. Besides, numerical strength of the regional parties has considerably increased, with a sizable vote share being captured by regional parties.”

Download PDF from menu on right to read full article »