The key actor in a democratic state is:-

Political parties

The correct answer is Option (4) → Political parties

In a democratic state, the central role is played by political parties, since they contest elections, form governments, represent public opinion, and shape policies.

" In a democratic form of government political parties are key actors. A political party may be defined as an organisation oriented towards achieving legitimate control of government through an electoral process. Political Party is an organisation established with the aim of achieving governmental power and using that power to pursue a specific programme. Political parties are based on certain understanding of society and how it ought to be. In a democratic system the interests of different groups are also represented by political parties, who take up their case...."