Democracy invariably involves conflict of interests and viewpoints. These in power have to balance between demands and pressures of various groups.

The differences, at times are often expressed in organised ways. There are different ways by which citizens can influence politics. These include pressure groups and movements.

Conflict in a democracy is thus resolved through popular struggles.

Struggles are led by organisations which may be political or non-political, in a democracy, several organisations lead popular struggles.

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The struggle often takes the form of popular movements. Over here we can cite examples like the Narmada Bachao Andolan, movement for Right to Information, Anti-liquor movement, Women’s movement and Environmental movement.

Movements have a loose organisation and are informal and inflexible.

At times, interest and pressure groups are also formed to promote interests of people.

Some popular movements are led by trade unions, business and professional associations.

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Interest groups representing only a section of society are called sectional interest groups. There are even groups which promote interests of common people at large. These are called promotional or public interest groups.