Republic @ 75: Challenges & Responsibility

  •   Sat, Jan 25 2025
  •   By Fr Anush D’Cunha SJ

January 25, 2025

The Winter session of Parliament in November – December 2024 saw a debate on the Indian Constitution. Citizens, including myself, expected an enlightening discussion. An editorial in The Hindu on December 17, 2024, noted that while both sides agreed on the Constitution's supremacy, each accused the other of undermining it. As the Constitution marks its 75th year, it's a time to reflect on the resilience and evolution of Indian democracy. Despite praise for its diversity and inclusivity, India's democratic journey faces ongoing threats and challenges. Celebrating this milestone requires addressing the challenges that could redefine its future.

Journey of Indian Democracy:

India's democratic journey, starting in 1947, has been marked by achievements and milestones. As the world's largest democracy, it stands as a beacon of hope, navigating socio-economic challenges while maintaining democratic values through elections and peaceful power transfers. The Constitution, embodying justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity, anchors these values. Despite citizens relying on the judiciary and political leaders to uphold the Constitution, recent developments have threatened Indian democracy.

Erosion of Democratic Institutions:

Institutions like Parliament and the judiciary have weakened, failing as robust checks and balances. Parliamentary debates have declined, and bills like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the Farmers' Acts faced protests and repeal. The abrogation of Article 370 also sparked controversy. Allegations of judicial overreach, favouritism, and concerns about the Election Commission's independence have further eroded trust.

Polarization and Communalism: Social polarization along religious and caste lines threatens democratic harmony. Identity politics and communal tensions undermine secularism, with hate speech and misinformation deepening divisions. The prolonged conflict in Manipur exemplifies these challenges, where ethnic divisions have become entrenched, leading to violence and calls for retribution. To safeguard Indian democracy, addressing these threats and challenges is crucial for its future.

Media and Freedom of Expression: A free press is crucial for democracy, but Indian media faces censorship, corporate influence, and declining press freedom. Journalists face threats, and dissent is often met with repercussions. Control of narratives through media platforms risks democratic discourse. N. Ram highlighted government efforts to police and censor the internet and conduct illegal surveillance using spyware like Pegasus.

Electoral Integrity:

Despite the Election Commission's reputation, concerns about electoral integrity persist. Issues include money power, misuse of state machinery, and lack of transparency in political funding. Electoral bonds have been criticized for enabling anonymous donations. Allegations of selective voter removal and partisan actions have surfaced. The scheduling of elections has also raised questions about transparency.

Economic Inequalities:

Economic disparities challenge India's democracy. Unequal access to resources, education, and healthcare creates a gap between the privileged and marginalized. This divide undermines political participation and representation. By 2022-23, 22.6% of India's national income went to the top 1%, the highest in 100 years. Wealth inequality has increased, with the top 1% holding 40.1% of wealth in 2022-23. The rich have become richer, while the poor have become poorer. The World Inequality Lab highlighted the extreme wealth concentration among a small number of individuals.

Safeguarding Indian Democracy: The Way Forward

Strengthening Institutions: As the Indian republic celebrates the platinum jubilee of its inception democratic institutions must be strengthened to act as effective checks and balances. Enhancing parliamentary functioning, ensuring judicial independence, and empowering regulatory bodies like the Election Commission are vital steps. Institutional reforms should prioritize transparency, accountability, and public trust.

Promoting Social Cohesion Efforts to bridge societal divides should focus on education, awareness, and inclusive policies. Political and religious leaders must refrain from divisive rhetoric and work towards fostering unity. Civil society and grassroots movements can play a pivotal role in promoting inter-community harmony.

Ensuring Media Freedom Safeguarding press freedom requires protecting journalists from intimidation and ensuring editorial independence. Strengthening laws against media monopolies and promoting ethical journalism can help maintain the integrity of democratic discourse.

Reforming Electoral Processes The Election Commission of India (ECI) should introspect and ensure transparency. Electoral reforms should address issues such as political funding, voter education, and transparency in campaign financing. Strengthening the Election Commission’s autonomy and ensuring the ethical use of technology in elections are critical measures.

Fostering Economic Inclusion Addressing economic inequalities requires targeted policies to uplift marginalized communities. Investments in education, skill development, and social welfare schemes can empower citizens and enhance their democratic participation. Freebies need to be evaluated regularly and must reach the targeted group.

In conclusion, as India celebrates 75 years of its republic, it has both the opportunity and responsibility to address the challenges facing its democracy. While the journey has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations, the core values enshrined in the Constitution must remain unshakeable. The strength of Indian democracy lies in the active involvement of its citizens, who must continuously advocate for their rights and the rights of others. Upholding the ideals of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity is paramount for ensuring that the next 75 years are marked by inclusivity, resilience, and progress.

As we move forward, it will be crucial to remember that democracy is not merely a system of governance but a way of life. It thrives not only in electoral participation but also in the everyday lives of people as they engage in dialogue, advocate for their rights, and work towards a more just and equitable society. The commitment to democracy must resonate in the hearts and minds of every Indian, ensuring that the legacy of the Indian Republic remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.

 

 
By Fr Anush D’Cunha SJ
Fr Anush D'Cunha SJ, dean of studies at South Indian Common Juniorate, Jesuit training Centre, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
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