India’s foreign policy-making is influenced by a combination of historical legacies, national interests, and evolving geopolitical factors. While the formal conduct of foreign relations in India is the responsibility of the Executive—primarily the Prime Minister (PM) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)—political parties play a significant role in shaping and influencing foreign policy decisions. The role of political parties in India’s foreign policy-making process is a reflection of the country’s democratic system, where diverse views, ideologies, and political alignments contribute to policy formulation. This influence is exerted through debates, legislative processes, public discourse, and executive actions.
1. Influence Through Government and Opposition
(a) Government Political Parties
- The political party or coalition in power is the principal actor in the formulation and execution of India’s foreign policy. The ruling party determines the overarching direction and strategic goals of the country’s foreign relations. For example, the Indian National Congress (INC), during its time in power (1947–1977, and then from 2004 to 2014), pursued a policy of Non-Alignment, led by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru. Similarly, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in its current term since 2014, has focused on assertive nationalism, economic diplomacy, and closer ties with the United States and Israel.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s government has emphasized a policy of “Act East” and “Neighborhood First”, along with stronger ties with major powers like the United States, Japan, and Australia through the Quad (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue). This shift reflects the BJP’s approach of greater global engagement and strategic partnerships.
(b) Influence Through Ideology
- Political parties bring their own ideological perspective to foreign policy. For instance, left-wing parties in India, such as the Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI-M), have traditionally emphasized anti-imperialism, support for the Global South, and have been cautious about deepening relations with Western powers. They have often advocated for greater international solidarity and have critiqued Western economic practices, particularly the role of multinational corporations in developing countries.
- Right-wing parties, like the BJP, have promoted a vision of India as a global power with a strong cultural identity and assertive national security. The BJP has also sought to increase India’s strategic reach and engage more actively with the United States, Israel, and Middle Eastern countries, reflecting a shift from the Congress-led emphasis on non-alignment.
2. Role in Public Discourse and Parliamentary Debates
- Political parties in India contribute to foreign policy discussions by shaping public discourse and bringing foreign policy issues to the forefront of parliamentary debates. This influence can affect the way the public perceives international relations, especially when there are differences in approach to issues like national security, trade agreements, or foreign military alliances.
- Parliamentary committees, such as the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, provide a platform for members from different political parties to discuss and debate foreign policy decisions. While the ruling party may have the final say in policy-making, the opposition parties can play a crucial role in scrutinizing and questioning the government’s approach, thereby fostering a democratic accountability mechanism.
- Political parties can also influence foreign policy through lobbying and advocacy within the legislature, where they can bring attention to specific issues affecting India’s relations with other countries, such as trade, immigration, or security concerns.
3. Influence of Regional and State-Based Political Parties
- Regional political parties also play a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy, particularly when issues pertain to regional relations, neighborhood diplomacy, or economic cooperation with neighboring countries. For example, political parties in states like West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and Punjab may influence foreign policy in relation to neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or Pakistan, due to their ethnic, linguistic, or cultural ties.
- State-based parties often advocate for policies that benefit their regional interests. For example, the DMK in Tamil Nadu has been active in shaping India’s policy towards Sri Lanka, particularly with respect to issues concerning the Tamil minority in Sri Lanka and fishermen’s rights in the Palk Straits. Such domestic factors often add complexity to the national foreign policy framework.
4. Impact of Election Campaigns and Political Rhetoric
- During general elections or state elections, foreign policy issues often become part of the political rhetoric used by parties to appeal to voters. For instance, issues like national security, economic partnerships, or relations with neighboring countries become central themes in electoral manifestos. Political parties often frame their foreign policy stance as part of their nation-building agenda to show their vision of India’s role in the world.
- The BJP, for example, has used the rhetoric of nationalism and security to position itself as the party best suited to safeguard India’s interests, especially in relation to China and Pakistan. Meanwhile, the Congress Party has often highlighted its legacy of non-alignment and diplomatic engagement with global institutions.
5. Influence Through Coalitions and Alliances
- When political parties form coalitions at the center or in state governments, foreign policy can reflect a blend of interests from diverse political ideologies. Coalition partners may bring different perspectives to the table, influencing the direction of India’s foreign policy in certain areas, especially in matters of regional cooperation, trade agreements, and security alliances.
- Political parties also play a role in shaping India’s approach to multilateral organizations like the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organization (WTO), and World Health Organization (WHO). Parties with a more internationalist outlook may push for deeper engagement with these institutions, while more nationalistic parties may emphasize India’s sovereignty and self-reliance in international affairs.
Conclusion
Political parties play an integral role in shaping India’s foreign policy, both directly and indirectly. Their influence is exerted through the government’s policy framework, public debates, parliamentary scrutiny, and regional concerns. While the ruling party and its leadership have the ultimate decision-making power, the views of opposition parties, regional political dynamics, and electoral considerations also shape how foreign policy is formulated and implemented in India. Foreign policy in India is, therefore, not just a reflection of the executive’s agenda, but also a product of the nation’s democratic deliberations and political pluralism.
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