Though lifeblood of a representative democracy, political parties are beset with challenges of their own, limiting their larger role in democratization of the society.

(1) Voters vote based on party manifesto, outlining its ideology & agenda.

(2) Provide stable govt by winning majority or via coalitions.

(3) Act as a conduit for pressure groups, and link between citizens & govt.

(4) Become grounds for political recruitment of leaders.

(5) Articulate broader agenda of different sections → as First past the post system requires support of multiple sections.

(6) Ensure political participation of public → rallies, speeches etc. → widening roots of democracy.

→ Simple symbols, speeches allow participation of non-literate, vulnerable population.

Challenges of political parties

(1) Lack internal democracy → beset with nepotism, dynastic politics etc.

(2) Use money, muscle → criminalisation of politics → ~43% MPs in Lok Sabha have case against them (ADR).

(3) Large number of registered but not recognised parties → use it to evade taxes.

(4) Opaque functioning → against being considered under RTI (CIC ruling).

(5) Lack representation to women (~14% in Parliament).

Way forward

(1) Mandates for internal democracy like UK → separate electoral body in Conservative party.

(2) ECI → power to de-register parties.

(3) Transparency in electoral funding → possible partial state funding to curb criminalisation.