B. A. 4th Sem. Vocational (Public Policy- Unit-1- Political Democracy in India)

By

Dr. Farzeen 

Unit:1- Nature of Political Democracy in India

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Democracy and the Indian Democratic Framework  

Origin and Meaning  

-Origin:  

  - The term "democracy" is derived from the Greek words demos (people) and kratos (rule), meaning "rule by the people."  

  - First practiced in Ancient Greece, particularly in Athens, as a direct democracy.  

- Meaning:  

  - Democracy is a form of government where power is vested in the people, exercised either directly or through elected representatives.  

  - Abraham Lincoln’s definition: “Democracy is the government of the people, by the people, for the people.”  

Different Conceptions of Democracy 

1. Liberal Democracy: 

   - Based on free and fair elections, rule of law, individual rights, and multi-party competition.  

   - Example: The United States, United Kingdom.  

2. Social Democracy:  

   - Focuses on social justice, economic equality, and a welfare state while maintaining democratic institutions.  

   - Example: Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway).  

3. Marxist or Socialist Democracy:

   - Prioritizes economic equality by controlling major industries and redistributing wealth.  

   - Example: China (though it follows a one-party rule).  

4. Participatory Democracy: 

   - Emphasizes active citizen involvement beyond just voting, such as referendums and grassroots participation.  

   - Example: Switzerland.  

5. Deliberative Democracy:

   - Based on public discussions and debates before making decisions.  

   - Example: Town hall meetings in the U.S.  

Democracy and Development 

- Positive Impact of Democracy on Development:  

  1. Political Stability: Ensures peace and continuity.  

  2. Economic Growth: Provides a stable environment for businesses.  

  3. Social Welfare: Protects human rights and provides public services.  

  4. Transparency and Accountability: Prevents corruption.  

Challenges to Development in Democracies: 

  1. Slow Decision-making: Due to debates and consensus-building.  

  2. Electoral Populism: Leaders may focus on winning elections rather than long-term development.  

  3. Corruption and Bureaucracy: Weak implementation of policies.  

Different Types of Democracy 

1. Direct Democracy:

   - Citizens directly participate in decision-making.  

   - Example: Ancient Athens, Switzerland’s referendums.  

2. Representative Democracy: 

   - People elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.  

   - Example: India, USA, UK.  

3. Participatory Democracy:

   - Citizens actively engage in policy-making and governance through public debates, petitions, etc.  

   - Example: Brazil’s participatory budgeting.  

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Indian Democratic Framework

Concept and Nature 

- India is a sovereign, socialist, secular, democratic republic as stated in the Preamble of the Constitution.  

- Concept:

  - Based on universal adult suffrage (one person, one vote).  

  - Power is divided between different branches of government.  

- Nature:  

  - Federal System (division of powers between the Union and States).  

  - Parliamentary Democracy with a multiparty system.  

Parliamentary System vs. Presidential System

-India follows the Parliamentary system because:  

  1. It ensures collective responsibility.  

  2. It prevents autocratic rule by distributing power.  

  3. It allows for quick removal of ineffective governments.  

Features of Indian Democracy

1. Sovereign: India has complete independence in internal and external matters.  

2. Socialist: The state aims for social and economic equality (e.g., Right to Education, MGNREGA).  

3. Secular: No official religion; all religions are treated equally.  

4. Democratic: Power is derived from the people through free elections.  

5. Republic: The head of state (President) is elected, not hereditary.  

Democratic Institutions in India

Role of Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary 

1. Legislature (Parliament):

   - Makes laws, controls finance, and checks the executive.  

   - Composed of Lok Sabha (Lower House) and Rajya Sabha (Upper House).  

2. Executive (Government): 

   - Implements laws and policies.  

   - Includes President, Prime Minister, and Council of Ministers.  

3. Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts, District Courts):  

   - Interprets the Constitution and laws.  

   - Acts as a guardian of fundamental rights.  

Challenges to Indian Democracy  

Electoral Malpractices  

1. Vote Buying: Distribution of money, liquor, or goods in exchange for votes.  

2. Booth Capturing: Muscle power used to take control of polling booths.  

3. Manipulated Electoral Rolls: Inclusion of fake or deceased voters.  

Corruption and Criminalization of Politics 

1. Politicians with Criminal Backgrounds: Many elected representatives have pending criminal cases.  

2. Misuse of Government Machinery: Incumbent governments use state resources for personal gain.  

3. Corporate Influence: Large donations from businesses influence policymaking.  

Issues of Caste, Class, Religion, and Regionalism

1. Caste-based Politics: Many parties appeal to specific caste groups for votes.  

2. Religious Polarization: Political parties often exploit religious sentiments.  

3. Economic Inequality: Wealth disparity affects political participation.  

4. Regionalism: Demand for separate states and regional autonomy weakens national unity.  

Conclusion 

- Democracy in India is robust but faces several structural and political challenges.  

- Electoral and political reforms are necessary to make Indian democracy more inclusive and effective.  

- Active citizen participation can help address many of these challenges.  

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