Elections in Tamil Nadu: Who Wins, Why, How?

Abstract

This paper discusses the election trends from 1920 to 2016 in Tamil Nadu. The concept of representation exists since ancient time in one or other form. Democracy signifying a method of representation is a colonial legacy in India. Democracy implies that people should have freedom to speak and act. Their needs and interests are communicated and fulfilled through representation. They can directly represent or indirectly represent. Democracy gives assurance to this sort of practice. This not only shows the legitimate relationship between the rule and the ruled but also provides respect to law and stability to political system. It is accepted that power resides in citizens and thus popular sovereignty is legitimized through elections. Citizens are passive watchers and active changers. Hence, political change rests with the citizens. Though citizens are termed as elites, groups or mass, their force is well recognized. In modern sense, political process is viewed as acquiring and maintenance of power in the realm of democratic set up. Currently, the system of representation is riddled with competitive populism. Emerging leaders and parties are forced to accommodate their ideologies in coping with competitive politics. Electoral politics and voting behaviour reflect series of influences mooted by the politicians. The Constitution of India, Representation of People’s Act and the local body acts are guiding the conduct of elections. The election of commission of India and the State election commission directs the entire aspect of elections.