Lok Sabha Election Results (1967-1970)
Situation Before the Election: The period from 1967 to 1970 was characterized by significant political changes in India. The Indo-Pakistan war of 1965 and economic challenges had an impact on the political landscape. The ruling Indian National Congress (INC) faced growing dissent and opposition due to various factors, including economic disparities and social issues. This period also witnessed the passing of Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri in 1966, followed by Indira Gandhi taking over as the Prime Minister.Major Agenda of the Election:
The major agendas of these elections revolved around economic reforms, social justice, and the role of the government in addressing the needs of the people. The opposition parties sought to capitalize on popular sentiment against the perceived failures of the ruling party in certain areas. There was also a focus on regional aspirations and issues related to governance.Number of Members: During this period, the Lok Sabha continued to have 520 seats, with some fluctuations due to delimitation and changes in states’ representation.Winning Party and Opposition Party: The Indian National Congress (INC) remained the dominant party, but it faced formidable opposition. The opposition comprised a coalition of parties, including the Samyukta Vidhayak Dal (SVD) in Uttar Pradesh, the United Front coalition in West Bengal, and regional parties with specific regional agendas.Loksabha Officers
| Position | Name | From | To | Days in Office |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Speaker | Gurdial Singh Dhillon | 8 Mar 1967 | 16 Mar 1969 |
| 02 | Deputy Speaker | E. M. S. Namboodiripad | 19 Mar 1967 | 14 Jan 1969 |
| 03 | Secretary-General | V. S. Rama Devi | 20 Jul 1967 | 16 Mar 1972 |
| 04 | Leader of the House | Indira Gandhi | 14 Feb 1967 | 24 Mar 1977 |
| 05 | Leader of the Opposition | Ram Subhag Singh | 7 Mar 1967 | 4 Jan 1971 |
Election Analysis:
- Emergence of Opposition Coalitions: The elections of this period saw the emergence of opposition coalitions to challenge the INC’s dominance. These coalitions brought together diverse regional parties and ideological groups united by their dissatisfaction with the ruling party.
- Economic Reforms and Welfare: The issue of economic reforms and social welfare gained prominence. Opposition parties criticized the INC’s approach to economic policies and sought to present their own strategies for equitable development.
- Regional Aspirations: Regional parties played a significant role, especially in states with distinct linguistic identities. These parties aimed to address local concerns and assert their states’ autonomy.
- Leadership Transition and Factionalism: The INC witnessed factionalism and internal conflicts, including differences between Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and other party leaders. This factionalism influenced the election dynamics.
- Shifts in Voter Sentiment: Public sentiment against the INC’s perceived shortcomings, as well as concerns about governance and representation, played a role in shaping the outcomes.
- Coalition Dynamics: The formation of opposition coalitions demonstrated the willingness of parties with differing ideologies to come together to challenge the INC’s dominance.
- Women’s Empowerment: The election of 1967 saw an increase in women candidates, reflecting a growing emphasis on gender equality and women’s representation in politics.
- Impact on National Politics: The results of these elections had a significant impact on national politics. The opposition’s success led to changes in state governments and contributed to shifts in policy priorities.
Election Results
| Party Name | Seats Won |
|---|---|
| Indian National Congress | 283 |
| Swatantra Party | 44 |
| Bharatiya Jana Sangh | 35 |
| Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam | 25 |
| Samyukta Socialist Party | 23 |
| Communist Party of India | 23 |
| Communist Party of India (Marxist) | 19 |
| Praja Socialist Party | 13 |
| Bangla Congress | 5 |
| Akali Dal – Sant Fateh Singh | 3 |
| All India Forward Bloc | 2 |
| Indian Union Muslim League | 2 |
| Peasants and Workers Party of India | 2 |
| Republican Party of India | 1 |
| United Goans (Sequiera Group) | 1 |
| Jana Kranti Dal | 1 |
| Jammu & Kashmir National Conference | 1 |
| Independents | 35 |
| Nominated Anglo-Indians | 2 |
| Total Seats | 520 |