– Shahid Memon
Elections, held every five years, are rightly called the “festival of democracy.” They provide an opportunity for citizens to exercise their right to vote and elect a government of their choice. Democracy thrives only when we respect and accept the collective will of the people.
Regardless of which party wins the elections, we, as responsible citizens, have a moral duty to engage with the victorious candidates. Presenting them with a “charter of requests” can guide their work for the betterment of the constituency and the nation at large.
We are obliged to contribute to the country’s progress and development and to cooperate with our elected representatives in their efforts toward good governance. As members of civil society, we must monitor, check, and guide those in power to uphold the core principles of our Constitution: Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
Whichever party forms the government, it is crucial to recall the wisdom of our founding fathers and other great thinkers. Noam Chomsky, the renowned American philosopher, emphasized the importance of a vibrant democracy where informed citizens are actively engaged in deliberations, policymaking, and direct action.
- Subrahmanyam, a strategic thinker and policymaker, highlighted India’s unparalleled diversity and the necessity of a secular, pluralistic, and democratic constitution to ensure unity. Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, D.Y. Chandrachud, reminds us that our Constitution is an essay in the acceptance of diversity, founded on a vision of an inclusive society.
B.R. Ambedkar, a principal architect of the Indian Constitution, warned that a good Constitution could be undermined by those who operate it poorly, just as a flawed Constitution could be uplifted by capable leaders. He cautioned that placing creed above the country would jeopardize our independence. Ambedkar also noted the peril of increasing inequality, which could threaten the political democracy we have built.
G.V. Mavalankar, the first Speaker of the Lok Sabha, stressed the importance of constitutional fidelity to preserve and protect democracy. Franklin D. Roosevelt, former U.S. President, defined true democracy as consisting of four freedoms: Freedom of Expression, Freedom of Faith, Freedom from Fear, and Freedom from Want.
Narayan Murthy, Infosys co-founder, emphasized that democracy thrives in an environment of pluralism, where every citizen can practice their beliefs without hindering others’ progress. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the second President of India, stated that true religion is a revolutionary force against oppression, privilege, and injustice.
As we look to the future, it is important to remember that the power we hold is temporary. Historical lessons from the fall of the Mughal Empire and the collapse of the British Raj in India remind us that we are not owners but trustees of our nations.
“God wants life to flourish on this planet,” promoting Peace, Love, and Harmony over Hatred, Violence, and Discord. Upholding Truth, Justice, and Fairness is paramount.
When we strive to fulfill the wishes of our Creator, we are promised guidance and protection. However, rebelling against these values leaves us to face the consequences of our actions alone. Religion, when embraced positively, unites us and promotes ethics and moral values essential for progress and prosperity.
This commitment to shared values is the path to truly becoming a Vishwa Guru (world leader) in the real sense.
