Types of Political Parties
There are two types of political parties at present—National and Regional political parties.
National Political Parties
- A national party is one which is recognised by the Election Commission in four or more states and has a nationwide presence.
- A political party is recognised as a national party if it fulfils the following criteria:
- It secures at least six percent of total votes in the Lok Sabha elections.
- It secures at least six percent of total votes in the Assembly elections in at least four states.
- It wins at least four seats in the Lok Sabha.
- Its candidates are elected from at least two percent of the total number of parliamentary constituencies in at least three states.
- The Election Commission has recognised the following parties as national parties:
Importance of the National Party
- National presence helps it to solve regional issues
- Works for the upliftment of people and nation
- Formulate policies for solving major national issues
- The opposition party keeps check on the ruling party
- It takes part in forming the government at the centre
- Also Read Constitution -Fundamental Rights and Duties
Regional Parties
Regional parties function at the state level. A political party that is recognized in less than four states is known as a state party. Political parties are recognized as regional parties if they fulfill the following criteria:
- A party secures at least six percent of the total votes in an election to Legislative Assembly of a state.
- A party should win at least one seat in the Lok Sabha from the state in the general elections.
Importance of the Regional Party
- It looks into the problems and issues at the regional level.
- A regional party with representation in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha helps draw attention of the nationalist parties and the people towards regional issues.
- Many regional parties have extended their support to national parties. This helps give a stable government at the centre.
- Regional parties can play the role of the opposition party if it is not a part of the government.