Question
Examine the role of the opposition in the early years after independence.
Solution
Even the opposition parties succeeded in gaining only a token representation in Lok Sabha and State Assemblies yet their presence played a significant role in maintaining the democratic character of the system as examined below :
(i) These parties offered a sustained and often principled criticism of the policies and practices of the Congress Party.
(ii) They kept the ruling party under check and often changed the balance of power within the Congress.
(iii) By keeping the democratic political alternative alive, these parties prevented the resentment with the system from turning anti-democratic.
(iv) These parties also groomed the leaders who were to play a crucial role in shaping of our country.
