India, the world's largest democracy, prides itself on its robust parliamentary system. However, recent events have brought the functioning of this crucial institution under scrutiny, raising concerns about the state of democratic values within the nation. Disruptions, heated debates, and the increasing number of parliamentarians facing criminal charges have all contributed to a sense of unease.
One of the most visible challenges to parliamentary proceedings is the frequent disruptions that stall legislative work. These disruptions, often characterized by walkouts, slogan-shouting, and sit-ins, derail discussions on critical issues and undermine the legislative process. While dissent is an integral part of a vibrant democracy, the manner in which it is expressed sometimes obstructs the very functioning of democratic institutions. The increased polarization and confrontational politics are leading to these frequent disruptions in the House. Members of Parliament (MPs) often engage in protests and walkouts, which prevent the smooth functioning of parliament. This has resulted in the loss of valuable time and resources, hindering the legislative process. Key bills are often passed without adequate discussion due to frequent adjournments, weakening the quality of legislative debate.
The diminishing of Parliament is deeply damaging to India's democracy. The competitive disruptions of Parliament by both the Opposition and, more surprisingly, the Treasury benches, made the recently-concluded winter session of the legislature a travesty. There were more adjournments than discussions, hardly any work was done and the session was adjourned with the widespread sentiment that we had let down the people of India.
Another worrying trend is the increasing number of parliamentarians facing criminal charges. A report by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) revealed that a significant percentage of ministers have declared criminal cases against themselves. These cases range from serious offenses like murder and kidnapping to crimes against women. The presence of individuals with questionable backgrounds in politics raises concerns about the erosion of democratic values and the rule of law. When politics, crime, and violence become intertwined, transparency and accountability are weakened. There is a risk of India turning into a "government of criminals, for the criminals" instead of a democracy.
The rise in the number of politicians with criminal accusations is associated with an increase in crime, including crimes against women. States with weaker institutions are particularly vulnerable, with a notable increase in total crime per year linked to the presence of criminal politicians. Politicians use criminals to sway voters with fear and money, often rewarding them with party tickets. Excessive election spending and politician-bureaucrat nexus drive corruption and illegal funding.
To address these challenges, several measures have been proposed. These include stricter enforcement of rules to ensure decorum and debate in Parliament. Some also propose imposing financial penalties or suspensions on members who disrupt proceedings. Repeated offenses could lead to expulsion for the entire session. Encouraging constructive dialogue is crucial to fostering an environment where both ruling and opposition parties prioritize public interest over political gains.
Moreover, there is a growing call for electoral reforms to prevent individuals with criminal backgrounds from entering politics. This includes stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, as well as measures to address the underlying causes of criminalization, such as muscle power, money power, and identity politics. The Supreme Court has made rulings mandating the disclosure of candidates' past and pending criminal charges.
The disruptions in Parliament and the increasing number of parliamentarians facing criminal charges are serious challenges that need to be addressed to safeguard democratic values and ensure effective governance. By promoting constructive dialogue, enforcing stricter rules, and implementing electoral reforms, India can strengthen its parliamentary system and uphold its commitment to democracy.
