Importance Of Democracy In India

India is the biggest and one of the most important democratic country on earth. Indian democracy today is as old as sixty-two years and it has survived despite many countries have yielded to dictatorship and military rule. The success or failure of democracy means a lot for the future of democracy not only in India but in other countries as well.

A democratic form of government is run by the elected representatives of the common people. Hence, pubic opinion is the essence of democracy. Such form of government ensures good opportunity for the overall growth and well-being of its citizens.

Indian democracy is characterized by peaceful coexistence of different ideas and ideals. There is healthy cooperation and competition among exiting political parties. Since, ballot and not bullet is the essence of democracy, there exists multiple political parties and each parties have their own ideal.

After gaining independence in 1947, India had chosen for Parliamentary democracy. Actually, India had no option than to choose it because of freedom movements and sociopolitical awakening through-out the globe.

Let us know in turn to the conditions prevailing in India and see whether they are favorable to the growth and functioning of democracy here. Most of the people of our country are illiterate and belong to extremely low-income groups. Unless the country is economically and educationally advanced, it will be wrong to think that the electorate will use their franchise to the best interests of themselves and the country.

Democracy stands in danger when the personal rule of a democrat assumes dictatorial dimensions. When a national leader attempts at a dynastic rule, there is the signal of danger for democracy. Democracy fails when such system becomes a boon only to a handful of people consisting of capitalist business magnets, M.L.A, M.Ps, and bureaucrats.

Successful democratic government never ignore the masses that work at fields and factories. Right to hold opinion is never suppressed in a true democracy. The laws are framed according to democratic ideas and ideals. Democracy avoids conflict and confrontation and creates a peaceful atmosphere for discussion and compromise.

It is important to note that the success of democracy depends largely on enlightened masses, honest and patriotic citizens.

Indian democracy vests supreme power in the hands of entire community. It aims at the common welfare of the common people. It ensures universal suffrage, popular control, popular responsibility, and the elected government remain accountable to them.

If we want our democracy to survive, we should be much more vigilant and the people should be much more educated to realize the importance of democratic values. We must enlighten the masses so that they may be in a position to assert their democracy in the real sense of the term.