Question

What are the functions of political parties?​

Answer 1

Functions of political party are as follows:

• A political party contests elections by putting up candidates.
• In countries like the USA, the candidates are selected by members and supporters of a party.
• On the other hand, in countries like India, the candidates are chosen by top party leaders.
• Every party has different policies and programmes. Voters make a choice in accordance with the policies and programmes liked by them.
• In a democratic country, a large group of people that has certain similar opinions group together and form a party. Then then, give a direction to the policies adopted by the government.
• Those parties which lose elections form the opposition. They voice different views and criticise the government for their failures and mobilize opposition to the government.
• Political parties shape public opinion. With the help of the pressure groups, the parties launch movements for solving problems faced by the people.
• Parties even offer access to government machinery and welfare schemes. The local party leader serves as a link between the citizen and the government officer.