The State of Indian Politics and What Needs to Change

Seemingly, many view the current political landscape in India as the worst situation. However, this perspective overlooks the fundamental essence and scale of democracy in a diverse nation such as India. India is rightfully celebrated as a land of unity in diversity, where around 1.4 billion people from different races, ethnicities, castes, and creeds coexist, yet remain resilient as a nation. While there are certainly shortcomings, it is crucial to recognize the democratic framework that supports us.

Political Awareness and Education

Political education is often lacking among the Indian electorate, contributing to the perceived crisis. Even those who receive proper education may not be fully aware of their political rights and duties. Many voters prioritize party or leader loyalty over the candidate's ability to represent their interests and needs. This is a significant challenge that must be addressed to foster a more informed and engaged citizenry.

Democracy and Diversity

The core of Indian democracy lies in its adherence to democratic principles, despite the myriad challenges. It is the world's largest democratic republic, with elections involving over 815 million eligible voters. The democratic process, though imperfect, remains the bedrock of the nation's governance. The unity in diversity is a powerful statement of India's resilience and strength.

The Partisan Divide and Social Issues

Modern Indian politics is often marred by verbal mudslinging and division along lines of:

Caste Place Religion Language Gender Wealth

While these issues are significant, it is essential to recognize that the problem lies with the people rather than the political system itself. Socio-political harmony requires a collective effort to build a strong and united Bharat (India).

Communalism and Political Policies

There is a persistent push towards communalism in Indian politics, epitomized by:

Religious communal provocation Communal violence targeting various religious groups Disputes over religious sites like the Babri Masjid Contentious legal reforms such as the debate around the triple talaq Political stances that espouse Hindutva over other identities

While these issues are deeply rooted in historical and cultural contexts, it is imperative that political leaders strive for unity and law-abiding conduct. The majority must be willing to hold accountable those who engage in illegal or unethical practices.

Political Transformation and Civic Responsibility

Substantial political transformation is required. This includes ensuring that ordinary voters can exercise their franchise without being swayed by unethical practices such as gift-giving. Middle-class Indians should perceive politicians as their equals, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.

It is essential to internalize the idea that everyone is equal before the law. More importantly, the majority should be willing to punish politicians who engage in corrupt practices. This collective effort can lead to a positive metamorphosis in the political ecosystem.

The Need for Critical Thinking and Openness

To address these issues, the populace must cultivate:

Critical thinking Rationality Skepticism Open-mindedness

Nikita Khrushchev's famous quote underscores the necessity of these attributes: “You just have to become critical, rational, skeptical, and open-minded.”

By adopting these principles, the Indian electorate can contribute to a more robust democratic process, fostering a sense of unity and progress.