Question

Mention any three impacts of mass movement on Indian political system.

Hint:

When answering about the impact of mass movements, always use concrete examples. Linking a specific movement (e.g., India Against Corruption) to a specific outcome (e.g., Lokpal Act, AAP) makes your answer much more effective and credible.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Mass movements (also known as social or popular movements) are a form of collective action by a large group of people to bring about or resist social and political change. In a vibrant democracy like India, these movements have played a crucial role in shaping the political system outside the formal structure of elections.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Three major impacts of mass movements on the Indian political system are:
1. Influencing Policy and Law-Making:
- Mass movements are a powerful way for citizens to articulate their demands and pressurize the government to act. Many landmark laws in India are the direct result of sustained popular movements.
- Example: The India Against Corruption movement in 2011-12 created immense public pressure that led to the passing of the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013. Similarly, the widespread protests following the 2012 Delhi gang rape case (Nirbhaya movement) led to the strengthening of laws against sexual assault.
2. Emergence of New Political Formations and Leadership:
- Often, the energy and organization of a mass movement can lead to the creation of new political parties that challenge the established political order.
- Example: The Assam Movement (1979-85) against illegal immigration led to the formation of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP), which went on to form the state government. More recently, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) emerged directly from the India Against Corruption movement.
3. Deepening Democracy and Raising Public Awareness:
- Mass movements play a vital role in educating the public about important issues and making them politically conscious. They serve as a check on the power of the government between elections.
- Example: The Narmada Bachao Andolan, while not fully successful in its primary goal, brought the issues of large dam-induced displacement and environmental sustainability to the forefront of national debate. Farmers' movements continuously highlight the agrarian crisis, forcing political parties to address these issues in their manifestos and policies. These movements ensure that the voices of the marginalized and affected are heard.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Three key impacts of mass movements on the Indian political system are their ability to influence the creation of new laws and policies, lead to the emergence of new political parties and leaders, and deepen democracy by raising public awareness and holding the government accountable.