(i) It may appear that it is not healthy for the groups that promote interest of one section to have influence in democracy. A democracy must look after the interest of all, not just one section. Also, it may seem that these groups wield power without responsibility. (ii) Political parties have to face the people in elections, but these groups are not accountable to the people. Pressure groups and movements may not get their funds and support from people. Sometimes pressure groups with small public support but lots of money can hijack public discussion in favour of their narrow agenda. (iii) But pressure groups and movements have deepened democracy. Putting pressure on rulers is not an unhealthy activity in democracy as long as everyone gets this opportunity. (iv) Governments can often come under the pressure of rich and powerful group but these public interest groups and movements perform a useful role of countering this undue influence and reminding government of needs and concerns of ordinary citizens. (v) Even social interest groups play a valuable role. Where different groups function actively no single group can achieve dominance over society. If one group brings pressure on the government the other will bring counter pressure not to make policies in the way the first group desires. The government hears about what people want. This brings a rough balance of power and accomodation of conflicting interests.