1. Let’s Recall
- Democracy is a form of government where power and authority come from the citizens.
- Citizens elect their representatives through free and fair elections.
- It is based on principles of freedom, equality, justice, rights and duties.
- India is the world’s largest democracy with over 140 crore population and 96.8 crore voters (2024).
- The Constitution of India (adopted on 26 November 1949 and effective from 26 January 1950) guides democracy and
protects Fundamental Rights of all citizens. - No citizen can be discriminated against on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
2. Tracing Democratic Traditions from Early Times
- Democratic ideas have been part of Indian ethos since ancient times.
- In Vedic period, assemblies like Sabha, Samiti and Vidhata were used for collective decision-making.
- Kings consulted assemblies, ministers and officers.
- A verse from Rig Veda (Aikyamatya Sūktam) stresses unity, common counsel and shared purpose.
- Bauddha Saṃghas (Buddhist communities) practised debate, discussion, voting and elected leaders.
- Foreign invasions and British colonial rule limited people’s participation in governance.
- The long freedom struggle revived democratic ideas.
- Constituent Assembly was formed in 1946 to draft the Constitution, which took 2 years, 11 months and 18 days.
- The Constitution is the longest written constitution in the world. It is flexible and can be amended under Article
368 while keeping its basic values intact.
3. Principles of Democracy
Popular Sovereignty
- Ultimate source of power lies with the people.
- Government is elected through free and fair elections.
- Every citizen aged 18 and above has the right to vote (Universal Adult Franchise).
Rule of Law
- Everyone is equal before the law and no one is above the law.
- Disputes are resolved in courts through proper legal procedures.
- Prevents misuse of power and protects people’s rights.
Fundamental Rights
- Six Fundamental Rights are guaranteed by the Constitution:
- Right to Equality (Articles 14–18)
- Right to Freedom (Articles 19–22)
- Right Against Exploitation (Articles 23–24)
- Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25–28)
- Cultural and Educational Rights (Articles 29–30)
- Right to Constitutional Remedies (Article 32)
- Right to Education (Article 21A) was added in 2009 for children aged 6 to 14.
Separation of Powers
- Power is divided among Legislature (makes laws), Executive (implements laws) and Judiciary (interprets laws).
- This prevents concentration of power and maintains checks and balances.
- Judiciary can review laws and constitutional amendments.
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL) helps in access to justice.
Accountability and Transparency
- Government is accountable to citizens through elections, debates and public engagement.
- Right to Information (RTI) Act 2005 allows citizens to seek information from government agencies.
Multi-Party System
- Several political parties contest elections and represent diverse interests.
- The party or coalition securing more than 50% seats forms the government.
- Opposition parties keep a check on the ruling government.
Safeguarding the Rights of Vulnerable Groups
- Government must protect all communities, especially weaker sections.
- Article 46 directs the State to promote educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and
other weaker sections and protect them from exploitation.
4. Role of Media in Democracy
- Media is known as the ‘fourth pillar of democracy’.
- It informs people, raises public issues and helps in their resolution through newspapers, news channels and social
media.
5. Types of Democracy
Direct Democracy
- Citizens directly participate in most decision-making.
- Example: Switzerland.
- Difficult to practise in large countries.
Representative Democracy (Indirect Democracy)
- People elect representatives who govern on their behalf.
- Example: India.
Parliamentary Democracy
- Executive (Prime Minister and Council of Ministers) is part of the legislature and accountable to it.
- Example: India and Canada.
Presidential Democracy
- Executive (President) is separate from and independent of the legislature.
- Example: United States of America.
6. Democracy in Practice: India’s Living Democracy
- India has the largest voter base in the world.
- Elections are conducted in 22 scheduled languages with symbols for voters who cannot read.
- More than one million polling stations are set up across the country, including remote areas.
- Over 2,800 registered political parties reflect India’s diversity.
- Three-tier system of government: Union, State and Local levels.
- Special provisions for tribal areas through Autonomous District Councils and PESA Act 1996.
7. Case Study: Democracy at the Grassroots in India
Jethipura Gram Panchayat (Gujarat)
- Awarded for effective Gram Sabhas and record maintenance.
- Organised Special Gram Sabhas and focused on education, sanitation, women and marginalised sections.
South Manubankul Gram Panchayat (Tripura)
- Recognised as a women-friendly panchayat.
- Promotes women’s participation, health, sanitation, livelihoods and implementation of government schemes.
8. Women and the Right to Vote: The Indian Experience
- Indian women received the right to vote in 1950 through Universal Adult Franchise without any prolonged struggle.
- One-third reservation for women in Panchayats and Municipalities (Article 243).
- Many states have increased women’s reservation to 50% in local bodies.
9. Challenges to Democratic Practices in India
- Issues like illiteracy, poverty, inequality, gender discrimination and regionalism.
- Spread of fake news and misinformation through social media.
- The Emergency period (1975–77) was a major challenge when Fundamental Rights were suspended and press was censored.
- Democracy was restored through elections in 1977, showing its strength and resilience.
10. Democracy and You
- Young citizens should stay informed by reading newspapers and using media responsibly.
- Participate in programmes like NSS and NCC for civic responsibility and community service.
- Civic responsibility includes respecting laws, others’ rights, using social media wisely and appreciating diversity.
11. Before We Move On (Summary)
- Democracy is a system of self-governance with active participation of citizens.
- Democratic ideas in India have deep roots in ancient traditions like Sabha, Samiti and Vedic values.
- India’s democracy is based on the Constitution which ensures popular sovereignty, rule of law, fundamental rights,
separation of powers and accountability. - It stands out for its huge scale, diversity and inclusiveness.
- The strength of democracy depends on informed and responsible citizens.
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