Solution:

Functions of Political Parties in a Democracy

Political parties perform several key functions in a democracy:

• They contest elections to gain political power.
• They represent diverse interests and opinions of the populace.
• They form governments and implement policies.
• They act as a bridge between the government and citizens.
• They promote political participation and awareness.
• They provide leadership and direction in governance.
• They facilitate the formation of public opinion.

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Challenges Faced by Political Parties

Political parties encounter several challenges in their functioning. Firstly, internal conflicts can lead to fragmentation and weaken party unity. Secondly, the influence of money in politics often results in corruption and prioritization of donors' interests over public welfare. Thirdly, the emergence of regional and caste-based parties can fragment voter bases, making it difficult for national parties to maintain dominance. Additionally, parties often struggle with ensuring adequate representation for marginalized groups. Lastly, maintaining a consistent ideology in the face of changing public sentiments poses a significant challenge for political parties.

Solution:

Reforms to Strengthen Political Parties

To enhance the performance of political parties, several reforms can be implemented. Firstly, introducing stricter regulations on campaign financing can reduce the influence of money in politics. Secondly, promoting internal democracy within parties can ensure fair representation and reduce conflicts. Thirdly, implementing measures for the inclusion of marginalized groups can enhance diversity. Additionally, encouraging parties to adopt a clear and consistent ideological framework can strengthen their identity. Lastly, fostering greater transparency in decision-making processes can build public trust and improve accountability within political parties.

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What is a Political Party?

A political party is an organized group of individuals who share similar political beliefs and aim to influence government policy and decision-making. Political parties work to gain political power by participating in elections, campaigning for candidates, and mobilizing voters. They play a crucial role in representing diverse interests within society and facilitating political participation. Parties also develop platforms outlining their policies and agendas on various issues, such as education, healthcare, and economic development. By contesting elections, political parties help in forming governments and shaping the political landscape of a country.

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Characteristics of a Political Party

Political parties possess several key characteristics. Firstly, they are organized groups that aim to gain political power through elections. Secondly, they have a defined ideology or set of beliefs guiding their policies and actions. Thirdly, political parties engage in campaigning and mobilizing voters to support their candidates. Additionally, they seek to represent various sections of society, ensuring diverse interests are heard. Moreover, parties play a role in forming governments and influencing legislation. Finally, they maintain a structured membership system, allowing individuals to join and participate in party activities and decision-making processes.

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A group of people who come together to contest elections and hold power in the government is called a political party

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Match the Organisations and Struggles

1. Congress Party - C. United Progressive Alliance

2. Bharatiya Janata Party - A. National Democratic Alliance

3. Communist Party of India (Marxist) - D. Left Front

4. Telugu Desam Party - B. State party

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Founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party

The founder of the Bahujan Samaj Party is A. Kanshi Ram. He established the party in 1984 to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly Dalits, and aimed to create a political platform for social justice. His efforts focused on mobilizing these communities to gain political representation and address issues of inequality. Kanshi Ram's vision was to empower the underprivileged and promote their interests within the political framework of India.

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Guiding Philosophy of the Bharatiya Janata Party

The guiding philosophy of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is C. Integral humanism. This concept was introduced by Deendayal Upadhyaya and emphasizes the holistic development of individuals and society. It seeks to integrate spiritual and material aspects of life, promoting a balance between individual needs and the collective good. Integral humanism advocates for a society based on cultural values and national unity, aiming to uplift all sections of society while respecting India's cultural heritage. The BJP's policies and ideologies are deeply rooted in this philosophy, influencing its approach to governance and social issues.

Solution:

Correct Statements on Political Parties

The correct statements regarding political parties are A and B. Statement A reflects the general distrust people have towards political parties, often due to corruption and failure to meet expectations. Statement B highlights that scandals involving party leaders can severely damage their credibility and public trust. Statement C, while suggesting that parties are not necessary for governance, overlooks their integral role in organizing political activities and representing diverse interests. Thus, the answer is (b) A and B.

Solution:

Muhammad Yunus's Decision to Launch Nagarik Shakti

Muhammad Yunus's decision to launch a new political party, Nagarik Shakti, reflects a desire for change in Bangladesh's political landscape. Here’s a breakdown of the considerations around this decision:

Right Decision?

Many view Yunus’s move as a bold and necessary step to introduce a new political culture focused on good governance and grassroots democracy. His achievements in economics and social development give him credibility and a platform to challenge the status quo. However, entering politics can be risky; it requires navigating complex power dynamics that he may not be familiar with.

Statements and Fears

The optimism expressed by supporters like Shahedul Islam is understandable. People are eager for a government that prioritizes anti-corruption and good governance. On the other hand, the apprehensions of traditional party leaders highlight the challenges of disrupting entrenched political systems. The concerns about external influences also reflect a common skepticism in politics, particularly regarding newcomers.

Organization of the New Party

To differentiate Nagarik Shakti from traditional parties, it could:

• Focus on grassroots involvement: Ensure that decision-making processes are inclusive and reflect the voices of ordinary citizens.
• Emphasize transparency: Implement strict measures against corruption, including open financial practices and accountability mechanisms.
• Adopt a progressive agenda: Address contemporary issues such as climate change, education, and healthcare reform, which are often sidelined by traditional politics.

Defending the Party

If I were to defend Nagarik Shakti, I would emphasize:

• A clear mission: Articulating the vision for a better Bangladesh and demonstrating how the party intends to achieve that through practical policies.
• Past achievements: Highlighting Yunus's successful track record in social entrepreneurship and economic development as evidence of capability.
• Engagement with citizens: Committing to regular dialogues with constituents to understand their needs and concerns, reinforcing the party’s democratic foundations.

In summary, Yunus's decision can be seen as both promising and precarious, with the potential for significant impact if executed thoughtfully.