The Democracy ranking for India dropped by 10 points to 51 on a scale set by a global media establishment — one that retains considerable credibility. The context it cited is understandable, namely the actions by the Modi government in relation to the Kashmir and CAA – these having raised the communal temperature. Both the steps are controversial while, admittedly, a nationalistic spirit is involved in these pushes, but beyond a point it hurts the sentiments of the main minority community, the Muslims.
Notably, the Supreme Court is seized of such matters but did not see the necessity to order a stay on the Government proceedings. Rather, it would hear the pleas from both sides in normal course. Those who expected a quick-fix solution from the apex court vis-à-vis the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) were disappointed by the way things progressed in the court this week.
The freedom that Democracy gives to citizens, the soundness of the judicial system that is supposed to take decisions in an impartial manner and a Parliament that weighs and reflects the opinion of the people at large are all the strengths of the unique system. India fell a few points down, but it still holds its head high overall, which must be acknowledged. The free airing of views in respect of Kashmir and CAA is by itself a demonstration of the strengths of democracy.
At the same time, the Government may take note of the way India gets projected globally in the context of the new steps. Wholesale freedom to individuals or other entities is an unacceptable proposition. A sense of responsibility must guide both the people on the ground, the political establishments and governments as well while handling matters of national importance. It should also be the attempt on the part of governments to engage people in dialogues rather than adopting confrontationist postures. The right to exercise one’s freedom also enjoins on citizens and institutions of democracy the need to act with restraint. A footloose style is not the way forward. It is also important to maintain the communal equilibrium in a nation where the only way to exist is to co-exist.
In ensuring such a scenario of peace and amity, the impartiality of courts is of prime importance. Justice to one and all is the central creed of governance in a democracy. It is for courts to ensure this will remain so now and for all times to come.