Commitment to Democracy

The editorial “In Defence of ‘Milavati Sarkar’” (EPW, 16 February 2019) rightly emphasises the inevitability of political contestations and pressures in a democracy. The stability of government is critical; however, it cannot be misinterpreted as arbitrariness in the decision-making process as the current Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leadership does. The political stability evolved out of debates and discussions derives much-needed social legitimacy as compared to stability, which is acquired through monopoly of power and authority. Unregulated power, through authoritarian tendencies, always poses a risk to democracy.

The editorial has not reflected adequately upon the need for committed leadership, while arguing for a coalition government for a plural India. Be it majoritarian or coalition, what matters is whether the top leadership of the single or multiple parties show commitment to the constitutional values of democracy or not. The role of top leadership matters a lot in protecting and preserving the democratic legitimacy of Parliament as the country witnessed in the formative stages of the Indian republic.