In the 1996 general elections, a record 10,636 independent candidates contested for Lok Sabha seats, marking the highest number of independent candidates in any Indian general election.
This large number reflected the political fragmentation of the time, with many individuals choosing to run independently rather than affiliating with established political parties.
The elections were held in a period of political instability, following the collapse of the Congress Party’s government.
The weakening of the Indian National Congress led to the rise of numerous regional parties and independent candidates, resulting in a more fragmented and competitive electoral environment.
While many independent candidates did not secure significant victories, their participation highlighted the increasing influence of independent politics and the diversification of India’s electoral landscape.
The election saw the formation of a coalition government, with the BJP emerging as the largest party, but unable to form a majority on its own. This marked the beginning of coalition politics in India, a trend that continued in subsequent elections.
The 1996 general elections had 10,636 independent candidates, the highest ever, reflecting political fragmentation and the rise of independent politics.
Coalition politics began in India following these elections, with the BJP leading but unable to form a majority.
