In India, identity politics plays a significant role in shaping political outcomes. Religion and caste, while constitutionally protected categories, have frequently been manipulated by political parties to mobilize votes and maintain power. This manipulation often leads to polarization, communal violence, and long-term societal divisions, turning identity into a ticking political time bomb.

Caste-based politics took a national stage with the implementation of the Mandal Commission recommendations in the 1990s, which reserved a percentage of government jobs and educational seats for Other Backward Classes (OBCs). While it aimed to uplift historically marginalized communities, it also led to nationwide protests, suicides, and violent clashes, particularly among the upper-caste youth who felt left behind.

Today, caste-based vote banks are a key electoral strategy. Parties offer tickets based on caste arithmetic, and entire campaigns are designed to appeal to specific communities. While this ensures representation, it often sidelines merit, policy discourse, and development-focused governance. Moreover, it reinforces caste identities instead of helping transcend them.

Religious politics has also reached alarming heights. The demolition of the Babri Masjid in 1992 and the subsequent rise of Hindutva ideology marked a shift toward majoritarian politics. This trend has only grown stronger, with political discourse increasingly centered around religious identity rather than issues like healthcare, education, or employment.

Laws and narratives that target specific communities, such as debates over “love jihad,” cow vigilantism, or the CAA-NRC protests, further fuel tensions. While such issues may win votes in the short term, they deepen societal divides and create long-term instability. When politics becomes a game of “us vs them,” national unity suffers, and governance becomes collateral damage.

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Major Political Crises Since Independence

The Emergency (1975-1977)- Political Crisis in India

Perhaps the most infamous political crisis in independent India was “The Emergency,” declared by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975. Triggered by a court ruling that invalidated her election due to electoral malpractices, the Emergency period lasted 21 months and is widely seen as the greatest challenge to Indian democracy.

During this time, civil liberties were suspended. Thousands of opposition leaders, activists, and journalists were jailed without trial. Press freedom was heavily censored, dissent was criminalized, and the constitution was amended to give the Prime Minister unchecked powers. It was a time of fear, silence, and authoritarian overreach.

One of the most controversial policies during this period was the forced sterilization program led by Sanjay Gandhi, which targeted poor and marginalized communities. Entire neighborhoods were razed under the guise of urban beautification, and dissenting voices disappeared overnight.

Although the Emergency ended in 1977 after massive public resistance and an electoral defeat for Indira Gandhi’s Congress Party, its legacy is profound. It remains a cautionary tale about how easily democratic institutions can be subverted when power goes unchecked.

The Emergency period is still invoked in modern political debates, often used as a warning against authoritarian tendencies. It also led to lasting constitutional and political reforms aimed at preventing such centralization of power in the future.

Mandal Commission and Reservation Uproar

The Mandal Commission crisis of 1990 is another pivotal moment in Indian political history. When Prime Minister V.P. Singh implemented the commission’s recommendations to reserve 27% of government jobs for OBCs, the country erupted in protests.

Upper-caste youth, particularly in northern India, felt betrayed and marginalized. Protests turned violent, and several students even self-immolated in desperation. Campuses became battlegrounds, and the national discourse shifted from development to identity.

While the decision aimed to correct historical injustices and provide equal opportunities, it also highlighted the deep fissures within Indian society. Political parties took advantage, using caste as a tool to mobilize voters, leading to an era of caste-based coalitions and regional powerhouses.

The long-term effects are still visible today. Reservation policies continue to be a sensitive issue, with demands for inclusion from various other communities like Marathas, Patidars, and Jats. The Mandal movement essentially changed the power dynamics in Indian politics, making caste an unavoidable electoral factor.

It also sparked debates on meritocracy, the relevance of reservations in a modern economy, and the need for economic criteria in affirmative action policies. More than three decades later, India still grapples with balancing social justice and equality in governance.

Anna Hazare and the Anti-Corruption Movement

In 2011, India witnessed a political awakening with the emergence of the India Against Corruption movement, led by social activist Anna Hazare. What began as a hunger strike for the Jan Lokpal Bill turned into a nationwide anti-corruption crusade that shook the political establishment.

Hazare’s movement struck a chord with millions of Indians disillusioned by scams like 2G, CWG, and Adarsh Housing. The youth, middle class, and civil society groups rallied behind a simple demand: clean governance and accountability.

The movement’s power lay in its simplicity and timing. Social media played a critical role, turning local protests into a national storm. Ramlila Maidan in Delhi became the epicenter of India’s modern political resistance, echoing the energy of the Arab Spring.

The pressure was so intense that the Parliament had to act. Though the final Lokpal Bill was a diluted version of the original demand, the movement achieved something extraordinary—it brought political corruption to the forefront of national discourse and redefined citizen engagement.

One of its most significant offshoots was the formation of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal. The party’s rise in Delhi politics marked a shift toward issue-based, grassroots politics, although it has not been free from internal strife and criticism.

The movement showed that Indian democracy, while flawed, has the potential for reform through collective action. It reminded citizens of their power and forced political parties to reconsider their approach to transparency and governance.

Current Political Challenges in India

Farmers’ Protests and Government Response

The farmers’ protests that erupted in late 2020 represent one of the most significant and prolonged political crises in recent Indian history. Sparked by the passage of three controversial farm laws, these protests quickly escalated into a national movement. Farmers, mainly from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, camped at the borders of Delhi for over a year, demanding the repeal of the laws.

The crisis was not just about agriculture—it was about trust. Farmers feared that the new laws, aimed at deregulating the agricultural sector, would lead to the dismantling of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system and expose them to exploitation by large corporations. The government’s failure to consult key stakeholders before passing the laws only worsened the situation.

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Mass mobilization, tractor rallies, and international attention turned this into a test of the government’s willingness to listen to dissent. The government initially responded with crackdowns, barricades, and branding the protesters as “anti-national.” But public pressure and electoral considerations eventually forced a rollback of the laws in November 2021.

This U-turn was seen both as a victory for democratic resistance and a significant political setback for the ruling party. It highlighted the importance of dialogue in a democracy and the risks of pushing major reforms without adequate consensus. The episode also reignited debates on farmers’ welfare, agricultural policy, and the centralization of power.

The farmers’ protests have left a lasting impact on Indian politics. They have shown the power of grassroots mobilization and the importance of collective bargaining. But they’ve also exposed the cracks in the policymaking process and the growing gap between the government and its citizens.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) Protests- Political Crisis in India

In December 2019, the Indian government passed the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which sparked widespread protests and deepened political divides across the country. The law, which provides a path to citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from neighboring countries, was criticized as discriminatory and unconstitutional.

The core objection was that the CAA violated India’s secular fabric by linking citizenship with religion. Coupled with the proposed National Register of Citizens (NRC), many feared that it could render millions of Muslims stateless. The fear and uncertainty led to massive protests, especially at iconic venues like Shaheen Bagh in Delhi, where women led a peaceful sit-in for over three months.

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Universities became hotbeds of resistance, with students from Jamia Millia Islamia, Aligarh Muslim University, and JNU at the forefront. The protests were largely peaceful, but were often met with aggressive police action, internet shutdowns, and arrests of dissenting voices.

Political Crisis in India: The government, meanwhile, defended the law as a humanitarian gesture for persecuted minorities from Islamic countries. It accused the opposition of spreading misinformation and fomenting unrest. This hardened stance only widened the chasm between the state and its citizens.

The CAA-NRC episode became a flashpoint in India’s political discourse. It wasn’t just a legal issue—it became a symbol of the larger ideological battle over the soul of the nation. Secularism, dissent, and constitutional values were all at stake, making it one of the most emotionally and politically charged crises in recent times.

Though the protests eventually subsided due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the issue remains unresolved. The CAA rules were notified in 2024, rekindling debates and fears about its implementation. The crisis demonstrated that in a democracy, laws passed without broad public support can ignite massive resistance.

Electoral Bonds and Funding Transparency- Political Crisis in India

Another simmering political crisis in India is the issue of electoral funding, particularly the controversial electoral bonds scheme. Introduced in 2017, these bonds allow individuals and corporations to donate money to political parties anonymously. While the government pitched it as a way to cleanse political funding, critics argue it has done the opposite.

The key problem is opacity. The bonds are sold through a government-owned bank (SBI), and while the party receiving the funds is known, the donor remains confidential. This lack of transparency has raised serious concerns about quid pro quo arrangements and corporate influence over policymaking.

Political Crisis in India: Data has shown that the majority of these bonds go to the ruling party, leading to allegations of unfair advantage and a compromised playing field. Moreover, there’s no cap on how much a company can donate, allowing even shell companies or loss-making firms to channel large sums into politics.

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Activists and transparency watchdogs have demanded a rollback of the scheme, and the matter is currently under judicial review. The Supreme Court has heard petitions arguing that the bonds violate the right to information and promote corruption.

The electoral bonds issue is a classic example of a silent political crisis—one that doesn’t make daily headlines but erodes the foundations of democracy. When voters don’t know who funds their leaders, accountability suffers. It’s not just about money; it’s about the integrity of the electoral process.

The debate around electoral bonds is far from over. As pressure mounts from civil society and the opposition, the government will face increasing scrutiny. Reforms in political funding are urgently needed to restore public trust and ensure fair elections.

Role of Judiciary and Media in Political Crises in India

Judicial Activism vs Judicial Overreach- Political Crisis in India

In a vibrant democracy like India, the judiciary serves as the guardian of the Constitution and the last hope for justice. However, in recent decades, it has also become a central player in many political crises—sometimes by defending democratic principles and, at other times, by overstepping its boundaries.

Judicial activism refers to the court stepping in to fill governance gaps or protect fundamental rights, especially when other institutions fail to act. Landmark cases such as the Kesavananda Bharati judgment (which established the “basic structure” doctrine) and the recent decriminalization of homosexuality in Navtej Singh Johar vs Union of India showcase how the judiciary can uphold progressive values even when politics falters.

Political Crisis in India: But there’s a fine line between activism and overreach. When courts begin to dictate policy, like ordering bans, setting deadlines for legislative processes, or interfering in administrative matters, they risk undermining the separation of powers. Critics argue that some recent judgments have veered into the territory of governance rather than interpretation.

Moreover, allegations of judicial bias and selective hearings have surfaced, especially in politically sensitive cases. The delay in hearing petitions related to electoral bonds, the revocation of Article 370, and the CAA protests have raised concerns about judicial independence. The appointment process of judges through the collegium system is also often criticized for a lack of transparency.

Despite these issues, the judiciary remains a vital check on executive power. But for it to maintain public trust, it must act swiftly, independently, and transparently. It must resist political pressures and uphold constitutional values, especially during times of crisis when democratic institutions are most vulnerable.

Media Bias and Political Influence- Political Crisis in India

India’s media landscape is one of the largest and most diverse in the world. But with great reach comes great responsibility—and growing concerns about bias, sensationalism, and political influence. Over the past decade, the media’s role has shifted dramatically, from watchdog to, in some cases, political cheerleader.

Political Crisis in India: Many news channels now openly align with political ideologies, often serving as mouthpieces for the ruling party or influential opposition groups. Prime-time debates resemble shouting matches, focusing more on spectacle than substance. Complex policy issues are oversimplified, and dissent is often labeled as “anti-national” or “urban naxal.”

Political Crisis in India: Ownership patterns in Indian media raise further alarms. A significant portion of print and television media is owned by corporate entities with business interests tied to the government. This nexus creates a clear conflict of interest, limiting critical reportage and investigative journalism.

Digital media and independent outlets have tried to fill the gap, but they face frequent harassment, legal threats, and financial constraints. Journalists critical of the establishment are targeted with defamation suits, sedition charges, and even surveillance, as seen in the Pegasus spyware revelations.

During political crises, the media should act as a bridge between the government and the people. But when it becomes part of the problem—spreading misinformation, fueling hate, or ignoring vital stories—it only deepens the crisis. A free, fair, and fearless media is essential for democracy, and India’s media must reclaim its role as the fourth pillar of democracy.

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Regional Politics and Federal Tensions

Centre-State Relations and Political Clashes

India’s federal structure is designed to distribute power between the Centre and the states. However, political tensions between these two tiers often lead to governance deadlocks and, at times, full-blown crises.

Political Crisis in India: Centralization of power is a recurring complaint from non-BJP-ruled states. Issues like the use of the Governor’s powers, delay in releasing funds, and interference in state policies have led to frequent flashpoints. For example, the tussle between the Aam Aadmi Party-led Delhi government and the Lieutenant Governor, appointed by the Centre, has repeatedly reached the Supreme Court.

Fiscal federalism is another area of concern. States often argue that the Centre controls too many financial levers, leaving them dependent on central grants and loans. Disputes over GST compensation, allocation of development schemes, and centrally-sponsored projects further strain relationships.

Political Crisis in India: Political differences exacerbate these issues. When opposing parties rule the Centre and the state, cooperation often gives way to confrontation. States like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala have frequently accused the Centre of using investigative agencies and delaying funds as political tools.

These tensions weaken governance and slow down development. For federalism to function effectively, there must be mutual respect, open dialogue, and institutional safeguards. Otherwise, regional political crises will continue to flare up, undermining national unity.

Rise of Regional Parties and Their Impact – Political Crisis in India

Regional parties have been a defining feature of Indian democracy, offering representation to diverse linguistic, cultural, and ethnic identities. From the DMK in Tamil Nadu to the TMC in West Bengal, these parties have reshaped India’s political narrative by challenging national parties and asserting local priorities.

Their rise began in earnest after the decline of Congress’s dominance in the late 1980s. Regional leaders like N.T. Rama Rao, Lalu Prasad Yadav, Mayawati, and Mamata Banerjee emerged as powerful voices for their respective states. These parties often act as kingmakers in coalition governments at the Centre, giving them disproportionate influence.

Political Crisis in India

While regionalism has empowered marginalized communities and brought attention to local issues, it has also led to fragmented mandates and unstable coalitions. Identity politics, nepotism, and local dynasties dominate many of these parties, often replicating the same issues they claim to oppose in national parties.

Their impact is a double-edged sword. On one hand, they deepen democracy by making it more inclusive. On the other hand, they sometimes hinder national consensus and create administrative bottlenecks. Still, in a country as diverse as India, regional parties are indispensable. Their evolution and integration into broader national politics remain key to resolving future political crises.

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Political Polarization and Communalism

Growing Ideological Divides- Political Crisis in India

India is experiencing increasing political polarization, with debates becoming less about policy and more about ideology. This growing divide between secular-liberal and religious-nationalist worldviews has led to a breakdown in political discourse and increased hostility among citizens.

Political Crisis in India: Issues like nationalism, religion, and identity dominate the headlines, while discussions on economy, healthcare, and education often take a backseat. Political opponents are labeled as “anti-national,” “traitors,” or “enemies of the state,” eroding the spirit of healthy democratic debate.

Social media has accelerated this polarization, turning every policy issue into a binary debate. Nuance is lost, and the middle ground has virtually disappeared. This ideological rigidity makes it harder for political parties to collaborate, even on national interests like public health or disaster management.

The consequences are serious. Communal riots, targeted violence, and increased censorship are signs that this polarization is no longer just rhetorical—it has real-world impacts. Healing this divide requires political maturity, media responsibility, and civic education that promotes critical thinking over blind loyalty.

The Role of Social Media in Deepening Polarization

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp have become central to India’s political landscape. While they have democratized access to information, they’ve also become echo chambers that fuel confirmation bias and misinformation.

Political parties use social media for campaigning, propaganda, and narrative control. The BJP’s IT cell is often credited with mastering the digital space, but other parties have followed suit. This has created a 24/7 political battlefield where facts are manipulated, and trolls often dictate the terms of public discourse.

Fake news, doctored videos, and communal rumors can spread like wildfire, sometimes leading to real-world violence. Mob lynchings, communal riots, and electoral misinformation have all been linked to social media platforms.

Efforts to regulate these platforms have sparked a debate between freedom of speech and the need to curb hate speech. However, without stronger laws and platform accountability, the digital divide will continue to fragment Indian society and inflame political tensions.

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Conclusion and the Road Ahead for Political Crisis in India

India stands at a crucial crossroads. As the world’s largest democracy, its political crises are both a reflection of its diversity and a warning about the fragility of democratic institutions. From deep-rooted corruption and communal polarization to media bias and identity politics, the challenges are vast—but not insurmountable.

The path forward lies in deepening democratic engagement, not curtailing it. Institutions must be strengthened, not subverted. Electoral reforms, transparency in funding, and independent media are essential. More importantly, citizens must reclaim their role not just as voters but as active participants in governance.

Political parties must shift from populism to policy, from slogans to solutions. They must prioritize the common good over narrow electoral gains. The youth, especially, hold the key to India’s democratic revival through awareness, activism, and accountability.

The journey won’t be easy, but the foundation is strong. With course correction and collective will, India can not only survive its political crises but also emerge stronger from them.

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FAQs- Political Crisis in India

1. What are the biggest political challenges facing India today?
Corruption, political polarization, lack of transparency in electoral funding, and the misuse of religion and caste in politics are among the biggest challenges. These issues erode trust and weaken the democratic process.

2. How has social media impacted Indian politics?
Social media has amplified political messaging but also deepened ideological divides. It spreads misinformation rapidly, polarizes public opinion, and often prioritizes outrage over dialogue.

3. Why was the 1975 Emergency a significant political crisis?
The Emergency suspended civil liberties, censored the press, and allowed authoritarian control. It was a direct threat to democratic values and left a lasting impact on India’s political consciousness.

4. What role do regional parties play in India’s political system?
Regional parties bring attention to local issues and ensure better representation, but they can also cause fragmented mandates and governance challenges due to conflicting agendas with national parties.

5. Can India overcome its political crises?
Yes, through stronger institutions, electoral reforms, responsible media, and active civic participation, India can not only address but also prevent future political crises.