3 minPolitical Concept
Political Concept

Coalition Politics

What is Coalition Politics?

Coalition politics happens when no single political party wins a clear majority (more than 50%) of seats in an election. Explanation: A majority means more than half. When this happens, different parties join together to form a government. This group of parties is called a coalition government. The parties agree on a common program and share power. Coalitions are common in countries with many political parties. They require compromise and negotiation. The goal is to create a stable government that can pass laws and make decisions. Without a coalition, it can be hard to govern effectively. Coalitions show that different groups can work together for the good of the country. India has had many coalition governments.

Historical Background

Coalition governments became more common in India after 1989. Before that, the Indian National Congress usually won a majority. As regional parties grew stronger, it became harder for one party to win alone. The 1977 election saw the first non-Congress government, a coalition. But it was unstable. The 1989 election marked a turning point. No single party got a majority. This led to a series of coalition governments in the 1990s. These governments were often short-lived due to disagreements between the parties. The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) are examples of successful coalitions. These coalitions lasted longer because they had a strong leader and a clear agenda. Coalition politics has changed Indian politics by making it more inclusive and representative of different groups.

Key Points

12 points
  • 1.

    A coalition government is formed when two or more political parties join together to form a government.

  • 2.

    The parties agree on a Common Minimum Programme (CMP), which outlines their shared goals and policies.

  • 3.

    Each party in the coalition gets a certain number of ministerial positions, based on the number of seats they won in the election.

  • 4.

    The leader of the largest party in the coalition usually becomes the Prime Minister or Chief Minister.

  • 5.

    Coalition governments require constant negotiation and compromise between the different parties.

  • 6.

    Coalition governments can be unstable if the parties have conflicting ideologies or interests.

  • 7.

    The stability of a coalition government depends on the trust and cooperation between the coalition partners.

  • 8.

    Regional parties often play a significant role in coalition governments at the national level.

  • 9.

    Coalition governments can lead to more inclusive policies that reflect the interests of different groups in society.

  • 10.

    A vote of no-confidence can bring down a coalition government if enough members withdraw their support.

  • 11.

    Pre-poll alliances are formed before the election, while post-poll alliances are formed after the election results are declared.

  • 12.

    The anti-defection law helps to prevent members of parliament from switching parties and destabilizing coalition governments.

Visual Insights

Coalition Politics in India

Key aspects and dynamics of coalition politics relevant for UPSC.

Coalition Politics

  • Formation & Dynamics
  • Challenges
  • Legal & Constitutional Aspects
  • Recent Trends

Evolution of Coalition Politics in India

Key events and milestones in the history of coalition governments in India.

Coalition politics in India has evolved from unstable alliances to more stable arrangements, reflecting the changing political landscape.

  • 1977Janata Party forms first non-Congress coalition government.
  • 1989National Front coalition government supported by BJP and Left.
  • 1996-1998Period of unstable coalition governments.
  • 1998-2004NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
  • 2004-2014UPA governments led by Congress.
  • 2014BJP wins majority, ending coalition era for a while.
  • 2024NDA secures third term but with reduced majority, relying on coalition partners.
  • 2026AIADMK and BJP discuss alliance for Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

Recent Developments

7 developments

The 2014 and 2019 elections saw the BJP win a majority on its own, reducing the reliance on coalition partners.

Regional parties continue to play a crucial role in state-level politics and often form coalition governments.

The formation of the INDIA alliance in 2023 shows an attempt to create a broad-based coalition to challenge the BJP.

Debates continue about the need for electoral reforms to promote stable governments.

The success of coalition governments depends on effective coordination and communication between the partners.

Some states like Maharashtra have seen frequent changes in coalition governments due to political instability (2019-2024).

The role of the Governor in inviting parties to form a government after an election remains a subject of debate.

This Concept in News

10 topics

Stalin: Modi's TN visits will backfire on NDA's poll plans

26 Feb 2026

This news demonstrates the practical application of coalition politics, particularly the challenges of maintaining unity and managing diverse interests within an alliance. Stalin's statements reveal the strategic calculations and potential vulnerabilities that coalition partners face as they approach elections. The news also highlights the importance of regional dynamics in shaping national political outcomes. The AIADMK-BJP alliance, for instance, must navigate local sentiments and priorities while aligning with the broader NDA agenda. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for interpreting the motivations and actions of the various political actors involved. It also helps to assess the potential impact of these alliances on the upcoming elections and the future of governance in Tamil Nadu. The news underscores the inherent tensions and compromises that define coalition politics, and the need for skilled leadership to navigate these complexities.

Yediyurappa calls for BJP to win Karnataka independently in 2028

20 Feb 2026

The news underscores the inherent instability and strategic considerations within coalition politics. (1) It highlights the aspiration of a party to escape the constraints and compromises necessary in a coalition. (2) The news event applies the concept of coalition politics by showing a party's ambition to move beyond it, suggesting dissatisfaction with the limitations of power-sharing. (3) It reveals that even within established coalitions, parties may harbor desires for independent dominance, indicating a fluid and dynamic political landscape. (4) The implications of this news are that coalition arrangements may be subject to change as parties pursue their individual goals. This could lead to new alliances or the collapse of existing coalitions. (5) Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the party's motivations and the potential consequences for the political landscape. Without this understanding, the news might be misinterpreted as a simple call for victory, rather than a strategic shift away from coalition governance.

NDA Allies Urge Review of Bihar's Liquor Prohibition Policy

19 Feb 2026

This news exemplifies the complexities of coalition politics by showing how policy disagreements can strain alliances. The NDA allies' call for a review of Bihar's liquor prohibition policy highlights the inherent tension between maintaining coalition unity and addressing specific concerns. This news applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by demonstrating how the need for compromise and negotiation can influence policy decisions. It reveals that even within seemingly stable coalitions, differing viewpoints can emerge, requiring careful management. The implications of this news are that coalition governments must be responsive to the concerns of their partners to avoid potential instability. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for understanding the motivations and constraints of the different actors involved. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to grasp the significance of the allies' demands and the potential consequences for the Bihar government.

Aiyar: Stalin best to unite INDIA bloc, make Rahul PM

17 Feb 2026

This news highlights the crucial role of leadership in coalition politics. It demonstrates how the ability to unite diverse parties is essential for forming a stable government. The news applies the concept of coalition politics by showing the ongoing efforts to build alliances. It reveals the importance of regional leaders in national politics. The implications of this news are that coalition governments will likely continue to be a feature of Indian politics. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing the strategies and dynamics of different political parties. It helps in understanding the challenges and opportunities of multi-party governance. This news emphasizes the need to understand the complexities of coalition formation and management for effective political analysis. The news underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of coalition politics to properly analyze the current political landscape.

DMK Seeks Congress Restraint Before Seat-Sharing Talks Begin

17 Feb 2026

This news underscores the delicate balance of power and negotiation inherent in coalition politics. The DMK's stance highlights how even established alliances can be strained by perceived slights or competing interests. The potential inclusion of Vijay's TVK demonstrates the fluidity of political alliances and the constant recalibration that parties must undertake to maximize their electoral prospects. This news event applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by showing how parties navigate the complexities of pre-election negotiations. It reveals that personal relationships and perceptions can significantly impact coalition formation. The implications of this news for the concept's future are that coalition politics will likely become even more dynamic and unpredictable, with new players and shifting alliances. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the motivations and strategies of the different political actors involved. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to grasp the significance of the DMK's demands and the potential impact of a new alliance.

Bangladesh Opposition Set to Challenge BNP's Dominance in Parliament

16 Feb 2026

The Bangladesh news highlights the aspect of coalition politics where diverse parties, even with differing ideologies, must find common ground to form a government or a strong opposition. This news event applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by showing how parties negotiate and position themselves within a parliamentary system. The news reveals that even with a dominant party like the BNP, the presence of a strong opposition alliance necessitates political maneuvering and potential coalition-building. The implications of this news for the concept's future suggest that coalition politics will continue to be a relevant factor in Bangladesh's political landscape. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for properly analyzing and answering questions about this news because it provides a framework for understanding the power dynamics, potential alliances, and policy debates that will shape Bangladesh's political future. The news demonstrates that even in a system where one party holds a significant majority, the need to negotiate and compromise with other political forces remains a key aspect of governance.

Trinamool's Strategy: Solo Posture in Parliament, Not INDIA Snub

16 Feb 2026

The news about Trinamool Congress choosing a solo posture in Parliament highlights the inherent tensions within coalition politics. (1) It demonstrates how parties, even within an alliance, prioritize their individual strategies and regional concerns. (2) The Trinamool's decision to act independently challenges the notion of complete unity within the INDIA bloc, showcasing the practical difficulties of maintaining cohesion in a diverse coalition. (3) This reveals that coalition politics is not just about forming a government, but also about constantly negotiating and renegotiating power dynamics. (4) The implications are that the INDIA bloc may need to accommodate diverse viewpoints and allow parties greater autonomy to maintain stability. (5) Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for understanding the motivations and actions of different parties within the alliance and the challenges they face in maintaining unity.

Congress MP Criticizes DMK, Demands Respect and Power Share

16 Feb 2026

This news demonstrates the inherent bargaining and power dynamics within coalition politics. The Congress party's demands highlight the constant negotiation for resources and influence that characterizes coalitions. This news event applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by showing how parties balance cooperation with competition. It reveals that even within an alliance, parties prioritize their own interests and seek to strengthen their position. The implications of this news are that coalition governments are not always harmonious and require careful management to prevent internal conflicts. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for interpreting the motivations and actions of the different parties involved. It helps us understand why the Congress is making these demands and what the potential consequences are for the DMK-led government. Without this understanding, the news might seem like a simple disagreement, but it actually reflects deeper structural issues within coalition governance.

Ex-Congress Minister Nasimuddin Siddiqui Joins Samajwadi Party

16 Feb 2026

This news underscores the fluid nature of coalition politics. Siddiqui's move demonstrates how individual leaders and parties can shift allegiances to improve their electoral prospects. This highlights the opportunistic aspect of coalition formation, where ideology may take a backseat to political expediency. The event applies the concept of coalition politics by showing how parties adjust their strategies based on perceived weaknesses or opportunities. It reveals that even within existing alliances like the INDIA bloc, tensions and competition persist. The implications are that future elections may see further realignments and unexpected partnerships. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for interpreting the motivations and consequences of such political maneuvers. It helps us see beyond the surface and understand the underlying power dynamics at play.

Ritu Tawde becomes Mumbai's new Mayor amid political shifts

15 Feb 2026

The news of Ritu Tawde's election as Mumbai's Mayor underscores the importance of coalition politics in situations where no single party commands a majority. (1) This news highlights the aspect of power-sharing and negotiation inherent in coalition governments. (2) The BJP's reliance on an alliance with Shinde's Shiv Sena demonstrates the practical application of coalition formation to achieve governance. It also challenges the notion of single-party dominance in urban local bodies. (3) The news reveals the evolving dynamics of political alliances, as Tawde's past association with the Congress and subsequent shift to the BJP showcase the fluidity of political affiliations. (4) The implications of this news for the future include the potential for policy compromises and the need for effective communication between coalition partners. (5) Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for interpreting the political motivations and strategic decisions of the parties involved. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to grasp the complexities of the mayoral election and its potential impact on Mumbai's governance.

Source Topic

Stalin: Modi's TN visits will backfire on NDA's poll plans

Polity & Governance

UPSC Relevance

Coalition politics is important for GS-2 (Polity and Governance) and Essay papers. It is frequently asked in both Prelims and Mains. Prelims questions focus on the definition, historical background, and key features.

Mains questions often ask about the impact of coalition politics on governance, stability, and policy-making. Recent years have seen questions on the role of regional parties in coalition governments and the challenges of managing coalition dynamics. For answering, focus on providing a balanced view, highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages of coalition politics.

Use examples to illustrate your points. In the essay paper, you can discuss the evolution of coalition politics in India and its implications for democracy.

Coalition Politics in India

Key aspects and dynamics of coalition politics relevant for UPSC.

Coalition Politics

Negotiation & Compromise

Role of Regional Parties

Maintaining Stability

Managing Diverse Interests

Article 75, 164

52nd Amendment Act

Increased Reliance on Allies (2024)

Evolution of Coalition Politics in India

Key events and milestones in the history of coalition governments in India.

1977

Janata Party forms first non-Congress coalition government.

1989

National Front coalition government supported by BJP and Left.

1996-1998

Period of unstable coalition governments.

1998-2004

NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

2004-2014

UPA governments led by Congress.

2014

BJP wins majority, ending coalition era for a while.

2024

NDA secures third term but with reduced majority, relying on coalition partners.

2026

AIADMK and BJP discuss alliance for Tamil Nadu assembly elections.

Connected to current news

This Concept in News

5 news topics

5

Stalin: Modi's TN visits will backfire on NDA's poll plans

26 February 2026

This news demonstrates the practical application of coalition politics, particularly the challenges of maintaining unity and managing diverse interests within an alliance. Stalin's statements reveal the strategic calculations and potential vulnerabilities that coalition partners face as they approach elections. The news also highlights the importance of regional dynamics in shaping national political outcomes. The AIADMK-BJP alliance, for instance, must navigate local sentiments and priorities while aligning with the broader NDA agenda. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for interpreting the motivations and actions of the various political actors involved. It also helps to assess the potential impact of these alliances on the upcoming elections and the future of governance in Tamil Nadu. The news underscores the inherent tensions and compromises that define coalition politics, and the need for skilled leadership to navigate these complexities.

Yediyurappa calls for BJP to win Karnataka independently in 2028

20 February 2026

The news underscores the inherent instability and strategic considerations within coalition politics. (1) It highlights the aspiration of a party to escape the constraints and compromises necessary in a coalition. (2) The news event applies the concept of coalition politics by showing a party's ambition to move beyond it, suggesting dissatisfaction with the limitations of power-sharing. (3) It reveals that even within established coalitions, parties may harbor desires for independent dominance, indicating a fluid and dynamic political landscape. (4) The implications of this news are that coalition arrangements may be subject to change as parties pursue their individual goals. This could lead to new alliances or the collapse of existing coalitions. (5) Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the context for understanding the party's motivations and the potential consequences for the political landscape. Without this understanding, the news might be misinterpreted as a simple call for victory, rather than a strategic shift away from coalition governance.

NDA Allies Urge Review of Bihar's Liquor Prohibition Policy

19 February 2026

This news exemplifies the complexities of coalition politics by showing how policy disagreements can strain alliances. The NDA allies' call for a review of Bihar's liquor prohibition policy highlights the inherent tension between maintaining coalition unity and addressing specific concerns. This news applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by demonstrating how the need for compromise and negotiation can influence policy decisions. It reveals that even within seemingly stable coalitions, differing viewpoints can emerge, requiring careful management. The implications of this news are that coalition governments must be responsive to the concerns of their partners to avoid potential instability. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides a framework for understanding the motivations and constraints of the different actors involved. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to grasp the significance of the allies' demands and the potential consequences for the Bihar government.

Aiyar: Stalin best to unite INDIA bloc, make Rahul PM

17 February 2026

This news highlights the crucial role of leadership in coalition politics. It demonstrates how the ability to unite diverse parties is essential for forming a stable government. The news applies the concept of coalition politics by showing the ongoing efforts to build alliances. It reveals the importance of regional leaders in national politics. The implications of this news are that coalition governments will likely continue to be a feature of Indian politics. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing the strategies and dynamics of different political parties. It helps in understanding the challenges and opportunities of multi-party governance. This news emphasizes the need to understand the complexities of coalition formation and management for effective political analysis. The news underscores the importance of understanding the dynamics of coalition politics to properly analyze the current political landscape.

DMK Seeks Congress Restraint Before Seat-Sharing Talks Begin

17 February 2026

This news underscores the delicate balance of power and negotiation inherent in coalition politics. The DMK's stance highlights how even established alliances can be strained by perceived slights or competing interests. The potential inclusion of Vijay's TVK demonstrates the fluidity of political alliances and the constant recalibration that parties must undertake to maximize their electoral prospects. This news event applies the concept of coalition politics in practice by showing how parties navigate the complexities of pre-election negotiations. It reveals that personal relationships and perceptions can significantly impact coalition formation. The implications of this news for the concept's future are that coalition politics will likely become even more dynamic and unpredictable, with new players and shifting alliances. Understanding coalition politics is crucial for analyzing this news because it provides the framework for understanding the motivations and strategies of the different political actors involved. Without this understanding, it would be difficult to grasp the significance of the DMK's demands and the potential impact of a new alliance.