Consider the following statements:

(i) The Lok Sabha Elections of 1989 marked the end of, what Political Scientists have called, the 'Congress System'.

(ii) Indian National Congress emerged as the single largest party in the 1989 Lok Sabha Elections.

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

Rajasthan RAS Prelims 2023 Official Paper

Answer 1

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points

End of Congress System:
- The Lok Sabha Elections of 1989 marked the end of the 'Congress System,' as described by political scientists. The dominance of Congress in Indian politics started to decline, and coalition politics began to rise.
- Hence, Statement (i) is correct.
Single Largest Party:
- Despite the decline, the Indian National Congress emerged as the single largest party in the 1989 Lok Sabha Elections, although it did not have a majority.
- Hence, Statement (ii) is correct.

Additional Information

1989 Lok Sabha Elections:
- Although Congress emerged as the single largest party, it lost its majority, paving the way for coalition politics.
- The Janata Dal-led National Front, supported by the BJP and Left parties, formed the government.