There is no doubt that Indian democracy has shown resilience over the years to the extent that, apart from the Emergency, it has not suffered any serious setbacks. However, has our political culture evolved to the point that it can be described as modern day civilised? One only needs to compare the functioning of the Lok Sabha and Britain’s House of Commons to get an idea of the difference in behaviour. And it is not because the British are incapable of rudeness!
Earlier, the behaviour and character of politicians remained somewhat invisible due to the unavailability of information and the limited extent of its spread. As such, they still commanded genuine respect among the people. In the present, however, there is extensive coverage of their activities, be it in Parliament and the assemblies, in the field, and in their private lives. Very few are able to pass the test of such scrutiny. Similarly, their contribution to legislative functioning, and the quality of leadership, is visible to all. Most are selected by parties as representatives of caste and other power consolidation groups, even criminal networks, or because of their loyalty to party high commands. The few that do begin to forge an individual identity are considered threats to the status quo – as has been the recent case of RS MP Raghav Chadha of AAP.
Every representative of a municipal ward, assembly or Lok Sabha constituency, is required to be a leader in his or her own right. They are expected to contribute to the party’s strength rather than draw from it. They are supposed to represent the interests of their constituents and, if they cannot do so, they are nothing more than a burden on the system. Instead, most are seen to be building personal fortunes and misusing their influence and power in other ways.
And, of course, the tendency to use divisive politics to win elections has only increased. Even those in high positions and should know better are uncaring of the consequences. This can be done for as long as the constitutional structure remains strong and contains the excesses. However, even constitutional institutions and basic applications of the law are being challenged. Red lines are being crossed, particularly by regional satraps who have come to believe that they draw power not from the electoral process, but from special entitlements outside of it. In the process, the fundamental Indian identity is being challenged. The list of such frailties is a long one and it is the responsibility of the average citizen to be aware of this insidious threat, otherwise a general decline to the lawlessness of many other failed nations may become irreversible.
