In my opinion Democracy, as a form of governance, thrives on the active participation and informed decision-making of its citizens. The health of a democracy is directly linked to the quality of education its citizens receive. When democracy starts to falter, it often signals a deeper issue: a failure in the educational system. This connection becomes even more evident when examining recent political trends and elections, in India, where misinformation, freebie politics, voter manipulation and unruly behaviour of opposition have become rampant.

Politician’s Power Quest

In a democracy, politicians bear the responsibility of educating voters, ensuring they have the knowledge and understanding to make informed decisions. This education should go beyond mere literacy, encompassing a deep understanding of civic duties, the implications of policy choices, and the importance of selfless acts for state & nation building. However, the current political climate in India, reflects a stark departure from this idea. Politicians, in their quest for power, often resort to misinformation and manipulative tactics, leading to confusion among voters and eventual chaotic voting pattern.

Misinformation and Its Consequences

The recent Indian elections highlighted a troubling trend: the spread of misinformation to secure votes. Instead of fostering informed debate, some politicians resorted to fear-mongering, suggesting that giving absolute power to a specific party would lead to constitutional changes. Such tactics not only undermine the democratic process but also create a polarized and misinformed electorate. With AI enabling visual & voice-overs of individuals, harmful statements can be taken to a new level. This misinformation diverts attention from critical issues, such as sustainable economic development and social welfare, focusing instead on short-term gains and divisive narratives.

Freebie Politics and Voter Manipulation

The practice of offering freebies to secure votes is another manifestation of the failure of education in democracy. This approach treats voters as mere undignified beggar’s, rather than as informed citizens capable of making rational decisions. Offering money or other incentives in exchange for votes is tantamount to buying votes, eroding the very foundation of democratic principles. Instead of empowering the poor with opportunities for respectable employment, politicians often resort to short-term handouts, perpetuating a cycle of dependency and poverty.

National Security and Immigration Policies

A particularly worrying aspect of contemporary politics is the manipulation of immigration policies for electoral gains. State politicians like Kolkata, in their bid to secure votes, implement lucrative policies aimed at appeasing specific immigrant communities. While inclusivity and protection of immigrants are vital, these policies must not come at the expense of national security. The violence perpetrated by unaccounted immigrants poses a significant risk to both democracy and national security. It is essential to strike a balance between humanitarian concerns and the protection of national interests.

Role of the Opposition

Recent behaviour of the opposition (specially Rahul Gandhi) in parliament further underscores the educational crisis in democracy. The opposition’s duty is to hold the government accountable and represent the voices of those who did not vote for the ruling party. However, when opposition leaders resort to disruptive tactics, such as preventing the Prime Minister Narendra Modi from speaking, directing & encouraging unruly behaviour in parliament, they undermine the democratic process. Constructive criticism and debate are essential for a healthy democracy, but they must be grounded in respect and a commitment to the greater good.

Need for Systematic Education

To address these challenges in my opinion, there must be a concerted effort to enhance the quality of education at all levels. Thus education system should not only focus on rights but also on responsibilities. Young people, as well as adults, must be taught about the constitutional philosophies that underpin democracy, the roles of elected representatives, the administration, and the judiciary. An informed citizenry is better equipped to hold their leaders accountable and make decisions that reflect the long-term interests of the nation.

The challenges facing modern democracies, such as those highlighted in recent Indian elections, underscore the urgent need for comprehensive and systematic education. Politicians have a duty to educate and inform voters, fostering a culture of informed and rational decision-making. By enhancing the quality of education and ensuring that all citizens understand their rights and responsibilities, we can create a more resilient and vibrant democracy. I always advocate this commitment to education that we can ensure the continued development and prosperity of new Bharat, and indeed, the entire democratic world.

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