PSIR 8b. The decade 1989-1999 has created an epochal shift in the Indian party system at the national level. Identify the major national trends in the party system during this era. UPSC 2023, 15 Marks

Introduction:

The decade from 1989 to 1999 marked a transformative period in Indian politics, characterized by significant shifts in the national party system. Several key trends emerged during this era, reshaping the dynamics of Indian democracy.

Major National Trends in the Party System (1989-1999):

1. Coalition Politics Takes Center Stage:

One of the most prominent trends during this era was the rise of coalition politics.

The era saw the emergence of multi-party coalitions at the national level, signaling a departure from single-party dominance.

The National Front government led by V.P. Singh in 1989 was one such example of a coalition government.

2. Decline of Single-Party Dominance:

The dominance of a single party, particularly the Indian National Congress (INC), began to wane.

The era witnessed the weakening of the INC's grip on national politics, leading to the emergence of coalition governments.

3. Regional Parties Gain Prominence:

Regional parties began to play a more significant role in national politics.

Parties like the Janata Dal, Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) asserted their influence at the national level.

4. Mandal Commission and Caste-Based Politics:

The implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations in 1990 triggered a wave of caste-based politics.

Parties like the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and Samajwadi Party (SP) mobilized backward caste voters, altering the political landscape.

5. Rise of Hindutva Politics:

The 1990s witnessed the growth of Hindutva-based politics, exemplified by the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) capitalized on this movement, culminating in the demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992.

6. Economic Liberalization and New Economic Policies:

The era coincided with significant economic reforms, including liberalization and globalization.

The Congress government under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao implemented these reforms, transforming India's economic landscape.

7. Coalition Governments and Instability:

Frequent changes in government and coalition dynamics led to political instability.

Short-lived governments, mid-term elections, and shifting alliances characterized this period.

8. Emergence of the Third Front:

The Third Front, a coalition of non-Congress and non-BJP parties, emerged as a viable political alternative.

It played a role in national politics during this era.

Significance:

The period from 1989 to 1999 marked a shift from single-party dominance to coalition politics, regional parties gaining prominence, and the emergence of caste and religious-based politics. These trends continue to shape India's political landscape today, underlining the enduring impact of this transformative decade.