What do you understand by the First Past the Post System (FPPS)? Why was FPPS preferred over Proportional Representation (PR) system for elections to the Lok Sabha/Vidhan Sabha? Also, critically examine the consequences of this preference.

Why FPPS Preferred over Proportional Representation In case of proportional representation's multiple crpe) People stand elected against proportion of votes secured. It has inherent problem in Indian scenario. (1) FPPS is comparatively simple and easy for voters to understand considering illiteracy level during independence. (2)PR Strengthen allegiance to political party - leading to mushrooming of multiple political parties.

Consequences of the Preference Positive consequence: (1) Strengthened representative democracy by close relation between votes and representative (2) Reduces minority interest in decision making (3) Simple election procedure (4) Reducing party politics Negative consequence: (1) FPPS doesn't reflect the entire will of votes - has only majority of votes required rest of no votes and 18 values are not considered (2) Difficulty for minorities to get represented and propose their views (3) Reduces chance of independent getting elected (4) Absence of multi alternate & resistive voters choice between few political parties only (i.e.) issue of primary politics (5) Absence of alternative ready government - need to fresh election and increased election expenditure (6) Non-stability in long term policies Yet FPPS worked well both at loktabha and state legislature level making representative effective to build consensus and formulate policies swiftly.