Shallow Democracy: Political Parties and the Crisis of Representation in India

Despite over 70 years of regular elections, a large segment of India’s electorate—primarily the poor—remains uncommitted to any political party. This book argues that the unpredictability of Indian elections stems from the systematic neglect of the poor by political parties. While many among the poor do vote, they remain largely disengaged beyond election day: they hold fewer informed opinions, lack party connections, and receive little state support. Crucially, this marginalization is not merely due to individual disadvantages like illiteracy, but also reflects party strategy. Across elections, parties consistently fail to mobilize the poor, contributing to electoral volatility, party fragmentation, and reduced turnout.

Speakers: 
Francesca Jensenius, University of Oslo
Pradeep Chhibber, Berkeley University

Chair: 
Christophe Jaffrelot, Sciences Po-CERI/CNRS