<P> Compared with other democratic countries, India has a large number of political parties . It has been estimated that over 200 parties were formed after India became independent in 1947 . </P> <P> Some features of the political parties in India are that the parties are generally woven around their leaders, the leaders are actively playing a dominant role, and that the role of leadership can be transferred, thus tending to take a dynastic route . The two main parties in India are the Bharatiya Janata Party, also known as the BJP and the Indian National Congress, commonly called the INC or simply Congress . These two parties dominate national politics . On the left - right political spectrum, the Indian National Congress is a welfare - heavy, centre party, whereas the BJP is a fiscally conservative, Right - wing party . </P> <P> There are two types of political parties in India - National Party and Regional / State party . Every political party must bear a symbol and must be registered with the Election Commission of India . Symbols are used in Indian political system as an identity of political parties and so that illiterate people can also vote by recognizing symbols of party . </P> <P> In the current amendment to the Symbols Order, the Commission has infused the following five principles, which, in its view, should govern the polity in the country, situate as it is in its present state: </P>

Who gave recognition to political parties in india