Essay, Paragraph or Speech on “The Future of Democracy in India” Complete Essay, Speech for Class 10, Class 12 and Graduation and other classes.

The Future of Democracy in India

After the end of the second world war many countries of Asia and Africa achieved freedom from the shackles of colonial rule. Most of these countries adopted the democratic system of government. But in many countries this experiment with democracy failed. The main cause of failure of democracy in these countries was that the people did not possess experience to make it a success.

The Indian freedom struggle had, however not only overthrown colonial, rule, but also had evolved a vision of what free India would be like. This vision was that of a democratic and secular nation built on the foundations of an independent self-reliant economy, social equality and a politically awakened and active people.

Democracy in India has been relatively more successful as compared to many Asian and African countries which gained independence almost at the same time as India did. The credit for this goes not only to our great leaders like Jawahar Lal Nehru, Sardar Patel and others who laid strong foundation of democracy in India but also to our people who through thick and thin have affirmed faith in system through periodic elections.

Ever since India achieved freedom, she has emerged as a vibrant democracy. Although doubts were raised regarding the soundness and suitability in this type of government in the Indian conditions, which are quite different from the conditions prevailing in the western countries like the U.K. and USA etc. We have bettered the prediction of our critics and maintained our democracy in spite of game pressures from within and outside the country. And look at Pakistan which has experienced military dictatorship for 26 years out of its 54 years existence. Even now General Musharraf has usurped power and he plans to stick on to it as long as he can.

There is no reason why democracy should not succeed in India. India is land of diversity. A long process of history has made India a gigantic motherland of many races, tribes, linguistic groups and religious communities which exhibit a fascinating mosaic of racial and cultural inter-mingling and co-existence of varied belief patterns. Its large continental size, expanding population and the wide range of social and amazing reconciliation and mutual accord are things to be envied by outside world. In view of this diversity it is essential that everyone, irrespective of religion, caste, sex and language must be given equal opportunities. This can happen only if we continue with the democratic system of governance.

There has been a debate on whether India should continue with the present parliamentary democracy or switch over to the presidential form of government. If all political parties agree then the latter form of government may be adopted.

The future of democracy in India, however depends on our ability to preserve its roots and strengthen the system through constant effort. Despite the optimism expressed by political pundits there are several problems that threaten democratic fabric in our country.

In terms of its electorate, India has the world’s largest electoral political system based on universal adult franchise. Elections are held periodically at the grass root level. But elections which are the bedrock of a democratic system, have been marred by violence and malpractices. Man power, disinformation campaigns and violent methods have started playing a big role in the elections. There are several loopholes in the electoral system which call for remedial and necessary reforms. Unless these are undertaken immediately there is grave threat to the future of democracy in India.

The challenges of casteism, communalism and religious fundamentalism involving separation and violence are dangerous threats to our democracy. Inter-communal and inter-caste tensions and violence over the years have disturbed national peace and stability. In recent years there have been recurrent and increasing number of communal riots, caste carnages and languages animosities. This must stop if India has to maintain its democracy. Political parties must restrain from whipping up communal passions for petty electoral gains. If attempts are made to disrupt the social fabric and to divide the country on the basis of caste and religion then the future of democracy in India is bleak.

Socio-economic justice is essential if India has to emerge as a strong democracy in the true sense of the term, Judicial reforms are needed to speed up justice. The government must be made more responsible to the people. A genuine democratic system can only emerge as a consequence of a thorough socio-economic and political transformation which remains a major unfinished task of our times and great challenge for the future. The future of Indian democracy will depend on how we meet the challenges.