Working of a democracy

— Dr Navanita Medhi
We are now living in the age of democracy. Almost all the countries of the world are expected to establish democracy. But actually what is a democracy? Is it a form of government or a way of life or a way of living? There are various theories which define democracy in various ways. However, the all-accepted meaning of the term ‘democracy’ is that it is the government of the people. So, in a democracy, people must have a voice in the governance of the country. All sections of people must take an active part here. In a democracy, people have various roles to play – as a good citizen, as a sensible electorate, as a responsible social participant, as a constructive critic etc. That means, living in a democracy, one must feel that he or she is participating not only in the political life but also in the social life of the society. Participation in a democratic form of government consequently leads to the inculcation of democratic values in the society. Unless, the society accepts the values of democracy, it can not ensure or succeed. The people should have faith in democracy and make every effort so that it can deliver its best to them.An assumption regarding democracy is that it persists only in a capitalist economy. Capitalist economy believes in limited government where individual is free from state control in economic and social spheres. But in India, capitalism is not the basis of democracy. Accepting a socialist economy, democracy has been established in India. The colonial rule in the country had a great impact on the establishment of democracy after independence. The introduction of western education by the colonial rulers and the leadership of the nationalist movement by some western educated elites had contributed to the growth of inclination towards democracy - belief in the freedom of the people, equality of human beings and justice. Other contributions of the nationalist movement are the values of tolerance and togetherness.India is a country with a diverse population. To keep this diverse population united was a big task for the early leaders in the initial period. Even today, demands and grievances from various quarters have been coming and the secessionist activities are also very active. Yet, the Indian democracy has been moving forward passing through the critical phases at times. Indian politics has experienced changes over the years. It has been accommodating various forces into it and has made them integral parts of the system. It is obvious that in a pluralistic society, the system has to be flexible and yet stable. One party dominant system is no longer available in India although the Congress party is one of the strongest national parties. Various political parties have made their way into Indian politics. Not strictly based on clear ideologies, these parties enter electoral politics on the basis of some social, political or economic issues. Smaller parties working, particularly in various regions of the country are playing important role.Because of the emergence of a number of political parties, it has become difficult for a single political party to secure absolute majority in Indian Parliament. This has been a great challenge for a country for sometime which even led to the instability in the political system. But the political parties in India realised in no time that the hung Parliament is going to be a feature of Indian politics and a coalition government, the only alternative.The Indian electorate has been behaving as mature enough while participating in the political process. They have become conscious about good governance. They are also aware of their share of rights in the democracy. Now-a-days, the Indian electorate prefers only those political parties which articulate and give prominence to the genuine problems of their daily life. So, the political parties have to accommodate smaller issues of particular regions or communities along with the bigger issues of national importance to get going in politics.The emergence of various social movements and social groups is also strengthening democracy in India. Peoples’ movement for the protection of the rights of the local people, interests of the tribal groups, degradation of environment, against exploitation of the weaker sections, etc are gradually strengthening the base of democracy. People in general are getting motivated to make those in power realise what they actually need. Peaceful protest rallies, demonstrations are justified methods of agitation in a democracy. In India, people are now taking these methods to protect and promote their rights and liberties. In midst of the countries which are struggline for the survival of democracy, India has been growing as a formidable example of its own type. This may be because the democratic values are strongly gaining ground in our country.It is true that there are various instances in our society when people are not enjoying equality and their rights are violated even by the authority. On many occasions, they are denied justice. But such happenings are openly criticised and their remedies are also demanded accodingly. Our political leaders are very much aware of the fact that they can not cross the limit put by the laws of the land and are to exercise power with wisdom and sagacity.With the passage of time, popular participation has been increasing in the governance of the country. Particularly people are finding interest in casting their votes at different levels of election. Voting percentage has been rising not only in the rural areas but also in the urban areas. But what is important at this point is that people should vote according to their conscience. They should not be influenced by the vested interests of the political parties. They should be cautious that only better and sincere people get elected and a responsible legislature and an efficient government can be formed. Democracy stands not only for the rights and liberties of the people, but it also requires that people perform their duties properly. It is necessary that people behave rationally and responsibly in the society. Democracy will succeed only when people will help it to succeed. No doubt, India has been proving itself as a vibrant democracy in the world, still it has scope to go further up the ladder. For this, the people should always promote democratic values and remain alert that rule of law prevails. source: assam tribune