Which one of the following best describes the electoral system of India ?

The electoral system of India is primarily characterized by the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system, also known as the plurality system [2][4]. Under this method, the country is divided into single-member geographical constituencies where the candidate securing the highest number of votes is declared the winner, regardless of whether they achieve an absolute majority [2][3][4]. This system is specifically used for direct elections to the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies [3]. While India does utilize Proportional Representation (PR) via the Single Transferable Vote, it is reserved for indirect elections, such as those for the President, Vice-President, Rajya Sabha, and State Legislative Councils [1]. The Constituent Assembly chose FPTP for general elections to ensure government stability and avoid the fragmented legislatures often associated with PR systems in a diverse, multi-ethnic society.

Sources

1. [2] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 23: Parliament > First-Past-The-Post System > p. 225
2. [4] Indian Constitution at Work, Political Science Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: ELECTION AND REPRESENTATION > Chapter 3: Election and Representation > p. 57
3. [3] Indian Polity, M. Laxmikanth(7th ed.) > Chapter 80: Elections > ELECTION PROCESSs > p. 576
4. [1] Laxmikanth, M. Indian Polity. 7th ed., McGraw Hill. > Chapter 23: Parliament > First-Past-The-Post System > p. 225