Abstract
An alliance between the Bahujan Samaj Party and the Samajwadi Party in the electorally vital state of Uttar Pradesh during the 1998 Lok Sabha elections would have prevented the BJP from coming to power at the centre. This article uses coalition theory to explain why this alliance did not form. The analysis reveals that coalition formation in the state is a logical strategy given the fragmented nature of the party system. However, alliances are complicated by social cleavages, factors internal to parties and the dynamic nature of electoral politics in the state. The article concludes with an assessment of prospects for future alliances in Uttar Pradesh and the applicability of this case to coalition politics in India more generally.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
