Analyze the contribution of liberal democratic principles in the democratization of Indian polity. (UPSC CSE Mains 2020 - Political Science and International Relations, Paper 2)
- The guarantees of liberal democracy are intended to ensure no ethnic, geographic, class, or business interest dominates or exploits others to an unreasonable degree, and that there is fair and universal consent gained for government policies. Arguably the importance of liberal democracy is two-fold: no other system of government guarantees the right to free expression of political preference; and no other system promotes progress through peaceful competition between different interests and ideas. Liberal democracy, in theory at least, provides a mechanism for some form of rule by proportionate representation, with citizens empowered to bring about change through participation and persuade the powerful to act for the greater good.
- India adheres to the liberal democratic principles to the extent of providing universal adult franchise and providing each citizen various fundamental rights in Part III of its constitution. The preamble promises liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship. The directive principles provide various liberal democratic goals to the country. India has a free legislative body to make laws according to the will of the people, along with an executive organ working on established laws. Moreover, the powers of all the organs are limited, and there is a provision of checks and balances.
- India has a multi-party system along with active pressure groups, which enhance political participation at a larger scale.
- But at a point, India ceases to be a liberal democracy and becomes a welfare state. Property is not sacrosanct to prevent the accumulation of resources. Indian secularism does not separate religion from the state; the government is supposed to protect each religion equally. India practices affirmative action to provide equality of opportunity to various deprived sections of the country.
- Indian polity represents a unique picture. While liberal democratic principles have helped diverse ideas and identities thrive in Indian polity and deepen the democracy, there are also other features of the Indian constitution that cannot be ignored.
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