Published Paper Details:

This research paper examines the complex interplay between federalism and factionalism in India and their collective impact on democratic participation. Through a detailed analysis of India's political structure, this study elucidates how the federal system and various factional dynamics influence voter engagement, policy consistency, and governmental stability. The investigation includes a historical overview of India's federal evolution, a structural analysis of the division of powers, and an exploration of major political factions, including their roots in caste and religion. Notably, case studies of Punjab, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Northeastern states provide empirical insights into the interaction between federal arrangements and regional factionalism. The paper also identifies key challenges to democratic participation arising from these interactions, proposing several institutional and policy reforms aimed at enhancing democratic engagement and mitigating the negative impacts of factionalism. The findings underscore the need for a nuanced approach to governance that accommodates India's diversity while promoting effective and inclusive democracy. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics between federalism and factionalism in one of the world's largest and most complex democracies.