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PUBLIC LIFE AND VOLUNTARY SOCIAL SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS
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POLITICAL PARTIES AND REPRESENTATION in state
and union legislatures
Congress and Jana Sangh appear to be the only political parties which count in
electioneering. Satara is at present represented in Lok Sabha by two members and
by 12 members in the Maharashtra Legislative
Assembly. Some persons hailing from this district have found seats in the
Legislative Council by indirect election but none in Rajya Sabha. The Socialists
and Communists, under these or similar banners have pockets here and there but
not so big as to influence any election. Satara has been and is a politically
live district and its public life has been of an assertive and militant
character.
Influence of Two Princely States.
An important factor which made for progressive public and political Life of
Satara was the existence of two princely States, Aundh and Phaltan. Besides
encouraging the establishment of industries, they introduced responsible
government and control over administration by people's elected representatives.
This has made for a greater popular awakening about civil rights and human
dignity and a general democratic spirit and atmosphere in the district.
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