The "Congress System," coined by Indian political scientist Rajni Kothari, describes the dominant position of the Indian National Congress in the early decades after India's independence. Kothari argued that the Congress functioned as an umbrella organization, encompassing diverse interests and ideologies, allowing it to maintain political dominance. Rather than suppressing opposition, the Congress co-opted various social groups and political factions, acting as a mediating force in India's pluralistic society. This system was marked by Congress's ability to adapt and absorb dissent, making it central to Indian politics while allowing space for regional and opposition parties to exist.
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Morris Jones’ concept of the "One Party Dominant System" refers to a political framework in which a single party dominates the electoral landscape over an extended period, despite the existence of multiple parties. This system is characterized by the consistent success of the dominant party in elections, not through authoritarian means, but by its ability to represent a broad range of societal interests. In India's case, the Indian National Congress dominated the political scene after independence. The system allows opposition parties to function but limits their effectiveness in unseating the dominant party due to its institutional and electoral strength.
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Atul Kohli's concept of "Crisis in Governability" refers to the challenges India faced in the 1970s and 1980s in maintaining effective governance. Kohli argued that the Indian state's ability to govern was undermined by economic stagnation, political fragmentation, and social unrest. Rising demands from various social groups, weakening state institutions, corruption, and inefficient bureaucracy contributed to a decline in governability. Kohli observed that while democracy persisted, the state struggled to meet developmental goals and maintain political stability. This crisis reflected the growing gap between popular expectations and the state’s capacity to deliver, leading to political instability and discontent.
