ABSTRACT: This article presents a comparative examination of the political systems of India and the United States, two of the world’s largest and most influential democracies. While both nations embrace democratic governance and constitutional frameworks, their institutional architectures differ significantly. India’s parliamentary system, rooted in British colonial legacies, contrasts with the U.S. presidential system that emphasizes a rigid separation of powers. This paper explores these structural differences across constitutional foundations, executive-legislative-judicial relationships, federalism, electoral systems, and political cultures. It further reflects on the strengths and vulnerabilities of each system and provides insight into how historical, cultural, and socio-political factors influence democratic practices in both countries.
Keywords: India, United States, Parliamentary Democracy, Presidential System, Federalism, Electoral Politics, Political Institutions
- INTRODUCTION:
India and the United States represent distinct trajectories in democratic governance. India, a post-colonial state, adopted a quasi-federal parliamentary democracy in 1950, while the United States, following its independence in 1776, established a federal presidential system in 1789. Both systems are rooted in democratic principles but differ in institutional mechanisms and power distribution. This paper uses comparative political methodology to analyze how the two democracies function, how power is distributed, and how citizen participation and institutional accountability are ensured.
Moreover, understanding these systems is critical in todays context of global democratic backsliding, where institutional resilience and adaptability play crucial roles in upholding democratic norms. The comparative study of India and the U.S. provides valuable insights into governance practices that shape political accountability, citizen engagement, and policy formulation.