Practicing Success

Target Exam

CUET

Subject

Political Science

Chapter

Politics in India Since Independence: Era of one Party Dominance

Question:

In which states did the Indian National Congress not win a majority of seats in the state elections in 1952?

Options:

Travancore-Cochin, Madras, and Orissa

Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha

West Bengal, Maharashtra, and Gujarat

Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Rajasthan

Correct Answer:

Travancore-Cochin, Madras, and Orissa

Explanation:

The outcome of the first general election did not come as a surprise, as the Indian National Congress was widely expected to emerge victorious. The Congress party, having inherited the legacy of the national movement, was the sole political organization with a widespread presence across the country. Additionally, Jawaharlal Nehru, the charismatic leader, further bolstered the party's popularity. When the final results were announced, the Congress party's overwhelming success shocked many, winning 364 out of the 489 seats in the first Lok Sabha. The Communist Party of India secured a distant second, with only 16 seats. In the state elections held concurrently, the Congress party also achieved significant victories, except in Travancore-Cochin, Madras, and Orissa. Nevertheless, the Congress formed the government even in these states. As expected, Jawaharlal Nehru assumed the role of Prime Minister after the first general election, solidifying the Congress party's influence at both the national and state levels.