India’s current electoral system, First-Past-The-Post (FPTP), is under scrutiny for being overly simplistic and stable yet unfair in terms of representation. It often leaves smaller parties, women, and minorities underrepresented. Proportional Representation (PR) is seen as a fairer alternative, but it lacks stability and weakens the connection between voters and their representatives. To address these issues, the Law Commission and some political parties are proposing a hybrid model that blends FPTP and PR, aiming to create a more inclusive and balanced electoral process.
This brief dives into the debate around changing India’s electoral system. Right now, FPTP dominates the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls because it’s straightforward and produces decisive results. But there’s a big problem: it doesn’t always reflect the true share of votes parties receive, especially hurting smaller, regional parties, women, and minority candidates.
The document highlights suggestions from the 255th Law Commission Report and various political parties that favor a mixed approach. This hybrid model would combine FPTP with elements of Proportional Representation (PR) by amending Articles 81 and 172 of the Constitution to add a list-based system and increase the number of seats in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. To avoid fragmentation, it proposes setting a 5% vote threshold for parties to gain representation.
It also points to international examples like Germany’s Mixed-Member Proportional System and Nepal’s Parallel System. Both models effectively balance direct elections and proportional representation but would require expanding Lok Sabha seats if adopted.
India’s current system needs tweaking to ensure broader and fairer representation. While a pure PR model may not suit India’s structure, a hybrid system could strike the right balance, giving regional parties, women, and minorities a louder voice in the democratic process.
Keywords: FPTP (First-Past-The-Post), Proportional Representation (PR), Hybrid Model, Electoral Reform, Vote-Seat Discrepancy, Law Commission Report, Constitutional Amendment, Minority Representation, Regional Parties, Mixed-Member Proportional System
RGICS Issue Brief -Changing the Electoral Voting System
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