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India's score declined in EIU's Democracy Index. Identify the reasons. How can citizen participation can ensure growth of democratic values.(200 words)
India is one of the biggest democracies in the world but in recent times its score has declined due to variety of factors. On the whole, the world is also moving towards autocratic system, threatening the process of democracy.
Reasons for decreasing level of democracy
- Decline in representation
All caste, religion, language or backward groups are not able to get proper representation. This is a major characteristic of declining democracy.
- Caste and religion politics
In rural parts of the country, caste and religion determines electoral success. This undermines the whole purpose of democratic process.
- Electoral malpractice
Use of money, alcohol, free sops, official machinery etc to win elections constitutes malpractice. Eligible and deserving people are unable to enter politics.
- Centralized decision-making
In many major parties of the country, a single person or family makes decisions. This will make political parties autocratic, making the system also autocratic.
Role of citizens in ensuring growth of democracy
- Transparency
Citizens should demand transparent actions from decision makers. This will keep them on their toes and ensures increased governance.
- Accountability
Politicians and ruling body should be accountable for their actions. They must make efforts to fulfill aspirations of people they represent.
- Strengthening judiciary
Conflicts and issues have to be solved through judicial mechanism without any force. This will ensure that law of the land is upheld.
Thus, democratic values can be promoted and protected through collective actions by citizens, official machinery and political class.
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