Democracy at Stake

In the recent monsoon session of the parliament, the nation saw the instances of how democratic rights were curtailed in the abode of democracy and the voices of dissent were curbed.Firstly,the question hour was scrapped from the proceedings of the house to which opposition objected and alleged that it is for the first time in history of parliamentary proceedings that the members were not allowed to ask questions.MPs raise questions on behalf of the people of their respective constituency.It was an attempt to silence the voices of the people.Not even in the colonial times such attempts were made to curb the voices of the people.It was violative of the principle of separation of powers which is a basic structure doctrine and interference in the parliamentary proceedings by the executive is unfortunate,irresponsible and unconstitutional.

The second undemocratic occurrence that unfolded was the passing of farm Bills in haste.Since majority of the members had divided opinion on the provisions of the bill and demanded for voting in parliament.Neglecting their demands,the man sitting on the chair didn't even realise the need to have voting and get the bill passed through voice vote.

Despite strong opposition and discontent over the provisions of the bills,those were not sent to parliamentary committees for scrutiny like select committee and standing committee.The question arises as to why?Why these committees were not accessed for scrutiny when uproar and ruckus resonated the walls of parliament.The protests were launched from parliament to streets for consideration over the bills.

Such unethical and unruly practices downgrade the sanctity of democratic institutions and downplay the majesty of the constitution.We must vow to raise our voice and speak up aggressively whenever such unreasonable and arbitrary behaviour shown by the government.The constitution is supreme and it is the obligation of the entire country to adhere to the principles and ideals enshrined in this legal text.

It is only our Constitution that will lead us to path of prosperity and bind us together in building our India a much stronger democracy.Institutions always play a key part in making a democracy more robust and therefore they must avoid volatile act that poses threat to the largest democracy of the globe.

Image Courtesy: Google Photos