Coalition Governments

Context: While the INDIA alliance has yet to decide on its PM candidate, choosing a PM in coalition governments has been complex, and such leaders rarely complete a full term.

Appointment of Prime Minister in India

Article 75: The Prime Minister is appointed by the President. If no party has a majority, he can invite the leader of the largest party or coalition to form the government. The newly formed government must prove its majority in the Lok Sabha by winning a vote of confidence. Coalition governments are formed through post-poll alliances and are based on a common minimum program agreed
upon by the constituent parties.

There are no specific provisions in the Constitution for coalition governments.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Coalition Government

• Advantages
o Representation of diverse interests
o Consensus-based decision making
o Better Centre-state relations
o Checks and Balances
o Innovative policy solutions
o Better regional integration

• Disadvantages
o Perceived instability
o Difficulty in decision-making
o Compromise on ideological positions
o Policy Paralysis and Ineffective Governance
o Increased Corruption
o Short-term focus and dependence on alliance

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