Question

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

1. The first-past-the-post (FPTP) system is also known as the simple majority system.

2. The winning candidate needs to secure a majority of the votes. 

3. Every constituency elects one representative.

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : 1 and 3 only

The correct answer is 1 and 3 only.

• First past the post or FPTP is also known as Simple Majority Voting. Hence statement 1 is correct.
  • In this system the Winner-takes-all voting or Plurality voting system is followed.
  • The candidate with the highest number of votes in a constituency is declared the winner.
  • The winning candidate need not secure a majority of the votes. Hence statement 2 is not correct.
  • There is no minimum threshold limit to cross.
  • It  allows the candidate to win despite securing less than half the votes in a contest.
• The country is divided into small geographical units called constituencies or district.
• Every constituency elects one representative. Hence statement 3 is correct.
• Voter votes for a candidate.
• A party may get more seats than votes in the legislature.
• Smaller parties representing specific groups have a lower chance of being elected in FPTP.

• Why India Adopted the First Past the Post System?
  •  The entire election system is extremely simple to understand even for common voters who may have no specialised knowledge about politics and elections.
  •  The FPTP system offers voters a choice not simply between parties but specific candidates. 
  • It encourages voters from different social groups to come together to win an election in a locality.
  •  It provides for a direct relationship between the member of the legislature and the local constituency.