Political Parties of India
The Election Commission recognises parties as National or State parties under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. Recognised parties get a reserved symbol, free broadcast time and other privileges. Thousands more are registered but unrecognised.
National Parties
6 parties currently recognised by the ECI
NDA — National Democratic Alliance
Formed 1998, led by the BJP. Governs the Union (293 Lok Sabha seats in 2024) and of 31 states/UTs with legislatures.
INDIA — Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance
Formed July 2023, led by the INC. Won 234 Lok Sabha seats in 2024 and governs states/UTs. Some members contest against each other at state level (e.g. AITC, Left in Kerala); AAP announced its exit in 2025.
State & Regional Parties
| Abbr. | Party | Founded | Symbol | Main Base | Key Leader | 2024 Alliance | LS 2024 | Latest MLAs* | Heads Govt In |
|---|
*Sum of seats won in the most recent Assembly election of each state where party-level results are listed (Kerala 2026 is reported by front). Post-poll defections/mergers are not reflected.
How a Party Becomes a National Party
A party must satisfy any one of these:
- Wins at least 2% of Lok Sabha seats (11 seats) from at least 3 different states; or
- Polls at least 6% of valid votes in 4 or more states in a Lok Sabha or Assembly election and wins 4 Lok Sabha seats; or
- Is recognised as a State Party in 4 or more states.
In April 2023 the ECI withdrew national status from the CPI, NCP and AITC and granted it to AAP.
How a Party Becomes a State Party
A party must satisfy any one of these in a state:
- 6% of valid votes in the Assembly election and 2 MLAs; or
- 6% of valid votes in the state in a Lok Sabha election and 1 MP; or
- 3% of Assembly seats or 3 seats, whichever is more; or
- 1 Lok Sabha seat for every 25 seats allotted to the state; or
- 8% of valid votes in the state in the last Lok Sabha or Assembly election.