Opposition in a Dominant-Party System

Opposition in a Dominant-Party System: A Study of the Jan Sangh, Praja Socialist Party, and Socialist Party in Uttar Pradesh, India offers an in-depth examination of the dynamics and challenges faced by opposition parties operating within a dominant-party system. Focusing on Uttar Pradesh, a critical political and cultural hub in India, the study analyzes how these parties have worked to build and sustain their presence in the shadow of the Indian National Congress's dominance. By exploring the intricate interplay between political structures, societal mobilization, and intraparty dynamics, the book sheds light on the mechanisms that enable or hinder the growth of opposition in a parliamentary democracy. The text delves into the historical, cultural, and economic backdrop of Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing its pivotal role in India's political landscape. It discusses the factors influencing the development of opposition parties, including social mobilization, cultural group dynamics, and the evolving expectations of constituents. With hypotheses grounded in rigorous fieldwork and supported by detailed analyses of party structures and election data, the book provides valuable insights into the adaptability and resilience of opposition parties in a complex political ecosystem. This work is essential for understanding the broader implications of political pluralism in India's democratic framework. This title is part of UC Press's Voices Revived program, which commemorates University of California Press’s mission to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact. Drawing on a backlist dating to 1893, Voices Revived makes high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again using print-on-demand technology. This title was originally published in 1969.