Question

Statement I: Since 1989, India has seen a shift towards 'Coalition Politics'. Statement II: However, the 2014 and 2019 elections showed a trend of 'Single Party Dominance' returning within a coalition framework.

• A. Both are correct.
• B. Both are incorrect.
• C. I is correct, II is wrong.
• D. I is wrong, II is correct.

Hint:

1989-2014 = Weak coalitions. 2014-Present = Strong single-party (BJP) lead in a coalition (NDA).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The nature of the Indian party system has evolved from a one-party dominant system (Congress era) to a multi-party coalition era, and now to a new phase of dominance.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Statement I is correct: 1989 was a turning point because no single party secured a majority in the Lok Sabha. This ushered in an era where coalition governments (National Front, United Front, NDA, UPA) became the norm at the center for 25 years.
Statement II is correct: In the 2014 and 2019 general elections, the BJP won a full majority on its own (282 and 303 seats respectively).
Despite having a single-party majority, the BJP continued to lead the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition. This represents a return to a "dominant party system" but within a "coalition framework" where partners still exist but one party is pre-eminent.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Both statements accurately describe the timeline and nature of Indian electoral politics. Option (A) is correct.