Editorial of the Day (23 Dec): The collapse of parliamentary democracy in Bharat that is not India

Context: The recent suspension of 140 Members of Parliament in India is viewed by experts as a sign of diminishing strength in the country’s parliamentary democracy.

Concerns About the Decline of Parliamentary Democracy

• Diminishing Parliamentary Essence: Despite constitutional frameworks, power in India is increasingly centralised, contradicting the democratic principle of power distribution.
• Inaction by the Supreme Court: The judiciary’s failure to intervene proactively in the MPs’ suspension case raises questions about its role in upholding constitutional values.
• Media’s Questionable Role: With some exceptions, a significant portion of the media either aligns with the powerful or distracts from critical issues, rather than providing balanced coverage.
• Limited Public Outcry: The lack of substantial public reaction to these developments might indicate a waning interest in constitutional principles.
• Electoral Dynamics and Accountability: While elections are conducted, post-election scrutiny and debate over government policies are minimal.
• Eroding Separation of Powers: The traditional separation between the executive and legislature is weakening, with both branches becoming increasingly intertwined.
• Shift Towards Presidential System Traits: The current political landscape shows traits of a presidential system due to the concentration of power, though neither system inherently ensures liberty.
• Curbing Individual Rights: New legislation like the Criminal Code and Telecommunications Bill is perceived as diminishing individual rights and augmenting state power.
• Centralization of Leadership: Power is seen as being concentrated around the Prime Minister and his party, lacking effective constraints.
• Monopolization of Power: Government power is being used for various ends, some beneficial but ultimately altering the nature of India’s political system.
• Constitution vs. Personality: There’s a growing concern that individual personalities are overshadowing constitutional principles.

We’re now on WhatsApp. Click to Join

Suggested Measures to Reinforce Parliamentary Democracy

• Emphasising Debates and Deliberation: Parliamentary democracy should focus on meaningful debates and discussions among elected legislators on public issues.
• Utilising Committees: Parliamentary and standing committees should be more actively used for in-depth analysis of Bills and legislation.
• Strengthening the Opposition: A robust opposition is crucial for balancing the ruling party’s power and fostering a mature democracy.
• Upholding Dignity in Opposition: Opposition members should engage constructively and respectfully to contribute effectively.
• Maintaining Checks and Balances: The principle of checks and balances is vital to prevent the shift towards majoritarianism, a responsibility largely held by the opposition.

Sharing is caring!