Social Science (087) — CBSE Class 10 board question

The Election Commission plays a key role in the registration and recognition of political parties:

1. Registration: Every party in the country must register with the Election Commission. The Commission treats all registered parties equally.

1. Recognition and Symbols: The Commission grants recognition to large, established parties and gives each a unique election symbol that only their official candidates can use.

1. Criteria for Recognition:

• State Party: Secures at least 6% of total votes in a State Assembly election and wins at least 2 seats.
• National Party: Secures at least 6% of votes in Lok Sabha or Assembly elections in four States and wins at least 4 Lok Sabha seats.

Source: Chapter 4, National Parties section

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• This question directly tests the passage on registration and recognition. Examiners expect three distinct points: registration, symbol-based recognition, and the specific numerical criteria (6% votes + seat threshold) for both State and National party status.
• Always mention both categories — State party and National party — with their exact figures; these are easy scoring points.
• Avoid writing about specific parties (BJP, INC, etc.) unless asked; focus on the process.