NATIONAL FRONT GOVERNMENT
The National Front government, which came to power in 1989, marked a significant shift in Indian politics. It was characterized by coalition politics and the rise of regional parties, reflecting the changing dynamics of Indian democracy.
1.Third Front: Before the 1989 elections, the Third Front emerged as a coalition of various non-Congress and non-BJP political parties. It was primarily composed of regional parties and leftist groups, united by their opposition to the Congress Party's dominance.
2.Key Parties: Key members included the Janata Dal, led by V.P. Singh; the Left Front, which included the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Communist Party of India; and regional parties like the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) led by N.T. Rama Rao, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), and the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP).
3.Support Base: The Third Front drew support from diverse social groups, including farmers, workers, and the urban middle class. It also appealed to those disillusioned with the Congress Party’s governance, particularly in light of the Bofors scandal and economic challenges.
1.Discontent with Congress: The late 1980s saw growing discontent with the Congress government, particularly due to corruption scandals and economic challenges. The Bofors scandal, which implicated senior Congress leaders, eroded public trust in the party. Additionally, the Congress Party's inability to address regional aspirations and ethnic conflicts, such as in Punjab and Assam, further weakened its position.