TeaWitnessing the solemn ceremony of the inauguration of the new Parliament House, one could not help but be impressed. The pan-religious prayers, the atmosphere of piety and piety, and the quiet dignity with which the ceremony was conducted, are all reminders of the kind of nation we are. Diversity in unity, rather than unity in diversity, might be one way of picturing it.
Why do I say diversity in unity instead of unity in diversity? This is because, according to Hindu cosmological and philosophical traditions, it is unity that seeks diversity in order to better know and enjoy itself. On the contrary, the many do not need to strive to become one because oneness already pervades every atom of their rainbow kind. All the different religious traditions represented—including Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Sikhism—adhering to a rough and ready chronological order—not only co-exist, but It is also a symbol of the unity of India.
The fiery rhetoric of bigotry and struggle that we are used to was conspicuous by their absence. I was reminded of what Jain sage Vimal Sagar often used to say – Dharma is that which brings us together, not that which divides us. From that point of view, all division in the name of any faith tradition that explicitly justifies it would be recognized as irreligious-irreligious.
True, all of India’s religious pluralism was proudly displayed on this momentous occasion. Sadly, however, the same cannot be said of our vibrant and diverse political diversity. Instead, there was a monochromatic ruling system dominated by the Bharatiya Janata Party, with a small sprinkling of other parties. However, the leaders of the latter could hardly be seen. Religious pluralism without political pluralism appears to be somewhat of an anomaly as far as Indian politics is concerned.
This brings me to the subject of this follow up to my last column, I argued that a fractured polity and a divided civil society are bad news for the future of Indian democracy. The Bharatiya Janata Party’s constant attacks on the opposition do not make sense in the long run, especially if they lead to the unshakable belief that only the BJP is fit to rule India. True, dynastic politics and corruption, what to speak of minority appeasement and unbridled populism, are bad practices that must be condemned. But the condemnation should be based on how they hinder national progress.
Instead, the BJP seems to imply that because of its unique ideological or leadership qualities, it alone can do justice to the electorate, while all other parties are reprehensible, corrupt or tainted. Such extravagance of BJP flies in the face of reality. How can we forget that many opposition leaders, who were welcomed into the BJP, not only became completely acceptable overnight, but also became paragons of good politics and good governance? Surely, joining the BJP is not tantamount to a conversion, do those who do not convert condemn themselves to eternal political destruction?
The truth is that the Indian political class, cutting across party lines, shares a common DNA. They respond to the same electoral compulsions and systemic limitations. That is why the relentless efforts by the opposition to tarnish the image of Prime Minister Narendra Modi only to destroy ‘Brand Modi’ also hinders the path of India’s unity and development. Then what is the way?
A new Parliament building, however impressive, will not in itself secure the future of Indian democracy. This is possible only when the government and the opposition sitting in power can work together for the unity, security and prosperity of the country. The situation—with or without you—can work when it comes to inaugurating a building, bridge, or statue. But will it work when it comes to debating issues of national importance, passing laws, setting policies or governing the country?
From the politics of polarization, the country should focus its attention on institutional reforms. By rising above partisan politics and promoting national integration, India can build a resilient political system that is truly accountable, transparent and anti-corruption, if not corruption-free. It is only through such collective efforts that the nation can embark on a journey towards sustainable progress, prosperity and a brighter future for all its citizens.
A successful democratic society indeed demands a strong and vigilant opposition. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party was reportedly “unfazed” by the opposition’s boycott of the inauguration ceremony of the new Parliament building. But parliamentary democracy should not be deterred. Otherwise what would be the difference between us and China ruled by the Communist Party of China (CPC), the most powerful single party controlled state in the world?
What is the way forward? The BJP’s attempt to annihilate the opposition and the continued boycott of the BJP by the opposition are both negative strategies for Indian democracy. Instead, the ruling party should continue with electoral and administrative reforms on a war footing. Here are some positive steps that can be taken towards securing India’s future as the world’s largest democracy:
Read also: The success of BJP-backed Muslim candidates shows the strength of Indian democracy
Institutional Reform: Cleaning Up the Political System
Strengthening the office of the Election Commission of India (ECI) and similar corrective mechanisms can reduce graft and corruption in the electoral process. Citizens should not be bribed with money, liquor, food just before elections and other incentives including populist soaps after formation of government. Due to the many technologically advanced methods of surveillance, it has now become very easy to monitor the use of black money. Once corruption is reduced, if not rooted out of the political system, then the compulsion to extort money or deposit ill-gotten gains after winning an election will also reduce.
Beyond Targeting Individuals: Make Governance Accountable
India must prioritize accountability in governance in all areas, especially in the provision of public goods. Instead of targeting only individual politicians like Rahul Gandhi, the BJP should channelize its energy into building robust systems and mechanisms that promote transparency and accountability in all aspects of public life. This approach transcends party lines and has a lasting impact on the welfare of the nation.
Oppose Limit: refrain from bringingEng Below ‘Brand Modi’
While the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has undoubtedly brought significant changes in the country, the opposition’s sole focus on attacking ‘Brand Modi’ is limited and counterproductive. The relentless efforts to tarnish Modi’s image with the aim of destroying his personality is detrimental to national integration and progress. Political dialogue should shift from personal attacks to constructive engagement on policies and institutional reforms, foster healthy competition and collaborate for the betterment of the country. Why not acknowledge all the good things he has done and give constructive criticism when it is needed?
National Interest on Partisan Politics: Ending Parliament’s “Uncivilized” War
National interest should always be kept in place of party politics. It may sound like an obvious cliché, but both the ruling party and the opposition must acknowledge that constant mudslinging and character assassination only serve to divide the country and block India’s development. It is important to transcend personal agendas and prioritize the common good through constructive dialogue and meaningful collaboration. This approach calls for a move from adversarial politics to more cooperative and inclusive parliamentary functioning.
Depoliticizing Law Enforcement: Rayestablishment Belief
The erosion of faith in the political process is a serious concern in itself. Through a comprehensive restructuring of current vote-bank politics or polarization and appeasement on the one hand, and sycophancy and populism on the other, India can restore faith in its democratic framework. An impartial judiciary, Central Intelligence Bureau (CBI), Enforcement Directorate (ED), State Police and other such agencies are absolutely vital to restore faith in the system. This approach promotes the idea that no individual or party is above the law.
Not ‘King’ but ‘Praja’: Promoting grassroots democracy
Meaningful participation of citizens at the grassroots level is vital for a vibrant democracy. Democracy cannot be imposed from above; It should rise from below. The focus must shift from personality-driven politics to empowering local communities and promoting decentralized decision-making processes. By encouraging active citizen engagement, promoting transparency, and facilitating community-driven initiatives, India can strengthen its democratic fabric and ensure that governance remains accountable to the people. Once again, we see that over-centralization of power, however charismatic the leader may be, will be detrimental to the national interest in the long run.
Compulsory Voting: Expanding the Electoral Duties of Citizens
Although it may sound controversial, I have advocated the idea of compulsory voting before. If Australia can implement it why can’t we? The objection that India and its electorate is too vast and not sufficiently literate or educated is no longer tenable. Digital platforms have made voting from home possible for all citizens. We only need to implement adequate security measures to ensure that the system is tamper-proof. If Indians can vote from home and if voting is mandatory, we will see a radical change in the quality of elected leaders. Encouraging the disaffected or disinterested upper classes to vote, even if they choose NOTA (none of the above), would be preferable to absenteeism.
There is no doubt that Indian politics is going through a difficult phase, but the signs on the ground are clear and visible. What we need is more statesmanship and cooperation between the ruling and opposition parties instead of endless name-calling and mutual insults. The Indian electorate should not allow itself to be embroiled in pointless controversies or be fooled by political controversy and the sharpness of rhetoric. Far more important matters are at stake if India is to find its place among the great nations of the world.
The article is part two of a two-part series.
Makarand R. Paranjpe is a writer and professor. His Twitter handle is @makrandparanspe. Thoughts are personal.