Decline in India’s parliamentary practices – The real threat to the ‘India as we know it’

Source: The post decline in India’s parliamentary practices has been created, based on the article “The real threat to the ‘India as we know it” published in “The Hindu” on 21st February 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- polity-Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure.

News: The article discusses the decline in India’s parliamentary practices and growing political division. It highlights concerns over democracy’s future, polarized politics, challenges to federalism, questionable defections in politics, and issues with Centre-State relations, emphasizing the need to uphold the Constitution.

What is the current status of India’s external or internal dynamics?

External Dynamics

Global Political Environment: India remains relatively unaffected by global turmoil, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and tensions in West Asia.

China as a Vigilance Concern: China is noted as a matter of concern, requiring extreme vigilance, but not posing an immediate threat.

Pakistan’s Limited Threat: Due to its internal problems, Pakistan is not currently seen as a significant threat to India.

Internal Dynamics

Terror Attacks: India has fortunately avoided major terror attacks recently.

Internal Security Issues: Challenges like farmer agitations in Punjab and Haryana, and unrest in the northeast, especially Manipur, are present but manageable.

Communal Violence: While under control, communal tensions could increase during election years.

Left-Wing Extremist Violence: Currently low but with potential for revival during election periods.

What are the issues with India’s parliamentary democracy?

Decline in Parliamentary Practices: Recent parliamentary sessions in India have been marked by significant conflicts and a departure from traditional practices, as seen in the divisive final session of the 17th Lok Sabha.

Political Polarization: The country is experiencing heightened political division, with the Prime Minister accusing the opposition of creating a North-South divide.

Strained Federalism: There are concerns about the central government overstepping its bounds, impacting state autonomy and federal principles. Opposition-ruled states allege that the central government uses governors to interfere in state affairs, leading to strained relations.

Political Defections: The trend of engineered defections, notably the Bihar Chief Minister’s switch to the BJP, is undermining the democratic process.

What factors are responsible for this situation?

Intense Party Rivalries: The increasing hostility between the ruling party and the opposition, evidenced by mutual accusations and derogatory language, exacerbates the divide.

Electoral Strategies: The use of divisive issues like the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya as an election tool fuels polarization.

Manipulation of Democratic Processes: High-profile defections, such as the Bihar Chief Minister’s shift to the BJP, indicate a trend of manipulating political loyalty, eroding democratic norms.

Misuse of Constitutional Powers: The central government’s alleged misuse of governors in opposition-ruled states disrupts the balance of Centre-State relations.

Lack of Adherence to Constitutional Principles: The deviation from constitutionally mandated practices in government and parliamentary conduct contributes to the current situation.

Way forward

To move forward, India must focus on reinforcing parliamentary practices, fostering political tolerance, and strictly adhering to constitutional principles. Strengthening Centre-State relations and ensuring electoral integrity, particularly regarding political defections, are also crucial steps towards preserving the democratic framework and stability of the nation.

Question for practice

Discuss the challenges facing India’s parliamentary democracy and the factors contributing to its decline.