Source: The post India has a long and proud democratic tradition has been created, based on the article “A democracy grown at home” published in “Indian Express” on 2nd August 2025. India has a long and proud democratic tradition.
UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2- Constitutional value
Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech in Gangaikonda Cholapuram on July 27 reignited national pride in India’s ancient democratic legacy, particularly referencing the Chola-era electoral system in Uthiramerur. His remarks challenge the narrative that democracy in India is a colonial import, instead highlighting its deep civilisational roots.
Rediscovering India’s Indigenous Democratic Traditions
- Democracy Before the West: PM Modi asserted that Indian democracy existed long before the Magna Carta. The Chola-era village of Uthiramerur demonstrated an organised voting system with defined rules and accountability, showing how deeply democracy was embedded in Indian tradition.
- Historical Evidences Across Eras: Forms of participatory governance were evident from the fifth century BCE. Communities, villages, and tribal groups practiced decision-making through discussion. Kautilya’s Arthashastra further mentioned samghas or local self-governing units.
- Civilisational Pride in Democratic Practice: The historical reference is more than symbolic. It underscores democracy as part of India’s civilisational identity, not a Western transplant.
Uthiramerur and the Chola Model of Elections
- Comprehensive Electoral Framework: An inscription from 920 AD at the Vaikuntaperumal temple details the structure of wards, electoral qualifications, disqualification norms, committee formation, and even removal procedures. Villagers could recall elected representatives who failed their duties.
- Ballot Pot System: A Transparent Method: The kudavolai or “ballot pot” system involved writing eligible candidates’ names on palm leaves and drawing lots from a pot in public, by an impartial child. This ensured fairness and transparency in the process.
- Representative Accountability: Elected members served one-year terms. Removal provisions were strict — any misconduct, including embezzlement or dereliction, led to disqualification for up to seven generations.
Strict Moral and Ethical Standards
- Eligibility Grounded in Ethics: Candidates had to be between 35 and 70, own and live on tax-paying land, and be well-versed in scriptures or administration. These criteria ensured competence and community roots.
- Disqualification Based on Conduct: Defaulters, alcohol users, and those involved in moral misconduct were barred from contesting. Even their close relatives were disqualified to uphold public integrity.
- Higher Ethical Benchmarks: The system aimed to keep public life pure, contrasting sharply with today’s reality where convicted politicians often return to office.
India’s Democratic DNA
- Beyond the Constitution: India’s democratic ideals predate colonial rule, British Parliament, or the American Bill of Rights. Ancient republics like Vaishali and village democracies like Uthiramerur reflect a deep-rooted democratic culture.
- Election Commission’s Role: As the steward of the world’s largest democratic exercise, the Election Commission must draw from this civilisational legacy to reinforce institutional trust.
- A Timely Reminder: In a global era of democratic backsliding, recalling India’s indigenous democratic roots affirms that its values of equity, participation, and accountability are homegrown and enduring.
Question for practice:
Examine how the ancient Chola electoral system reflects the core principles of modern democracy.
