The ruling dispensation and Opposition parties are readying themselves for the 2024 general elections. The ruling BJP, in spite of success in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, is a bit alarmed about its prospects in the Parliamentary elections.
On the one hand it is claimed that the “Mother of Democracy” has almost become the Vishwa Guru (leader of the world). But, on the other hand, democratic institutions are being constantly undermined and most of the democratic norms are being violated. The suspension of 146 Parliamentarians of both Houses shows how the country is being dragged towards autocracy.
Important bills are being passed without exhaustive and threadbare discussions. Fundamental changes in the Penal Code should not be rushed through. The changes may have long-lasting repercussions. People are bound to think that the ruling party has willingly devised the strategy to get these acts passed by suspending the entire Opposition.
There are grave doubts about the fairness of the impending elections. Satya Pal Malik, the veteran politician, who served as Governor of several States, is openly saying that the Pulwama attack which claimed the lives of 40 jawans was a ‘planned conspiracy’. That is why no enquiry was conducted to know how it happened and who were responsible for it. He further says that a similar strategy may be adopted to influence the sentiments of electorate and by hook or crook win the next election. He even goes to the extent of saying that some attack may be planned on the Ram Temple or some big person may be assassinated or some communal riot may be orchestrated.
Further, the way the inauguration of the temple at Ayodhya is planned is also being questioned. From many quarters questions have been raised about why foreign leaders are being invited in a religious ceremonyin our secular state.
Pinpointed questions are being raised about the state of economy, unemployment and failure to create jobs. It is being criticized that in 2014 our foreign debt was about Rs. 50 lakh crores but now it exceeds Rs. 200 lakh crores. This shows that we are falling into a debt trap and the economic condition is not satisfactory. Democracy suffers a slow death when transparency is denied and opaque and behind-the-curtain policies are adopted. It is the fundamental duty of the government to satisfy the public by clarifying the correct position.
India is passing through a perilous period. The Opposition, opinionmakers, intellectuals, and informed and conscientious citizens must continue their struggle to save democracy, rule of law and the fundamental principles of democratic polity. Without true democracy, our great country cannot prosper and safeguard its unity and integrity.