IS INDIA BECOMING A DICTATORSHIP

India’s democratic status has been a topic of debate and concern in recent years. Let’s explore some perspectives on this issue:

1. Freedom House Report:

• Earlier this year, the US-based non-profit organization Freedom House downgraded India from a “free democracy” to a “partially free democracy” in its annual report on global political rights and liberties1.

• The report cited increased pressure on human rights groups, intimidation of journalists and activists, and attacks against minorities as contributing factors.

• Civil liberties have been declining since Prime Minister Narendra Modi came to power in 2014.

1. V-Dem Institute’s Assessment:

• The Sweden-based V-Dem Institute labeled India as an “electoral autocracy” in its latest report on democracy1.

• It highlighted deterioration of freedom of expression, media independence, and attacks on civil society and journalists critical of the government.

1. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index:

• India slipped two places to 53rd position in the latest Democracy Index published by The Economist Intelligence Unit1.

• The report attributed this decline to policies that “fomented anti-Muslim feeling and religious strife.”

1. Foreign Policy Perspective:

• Some experts argue that while India may not be a full-blown dictatorship, there are concerns about authoritarian tendencies.

• Prime Minister Modi’s government has been accused of seeking changes to India’s constitutional order to increase its authority and affirm Hinduism as a de facto state religion2.

1. Gap Between Norm and Reality:

• Rather than labeling India as a dictatorship, it’s essential to recognize the gap between democratic norms and the current reality.

• India’s political system faces challenges related to freedom of expression, media independence, and civil liberties3.

In summary, India’s democratic health is a matter of ongoing debate, with various assessments pointing to both positive and negative trends. It’s crucial to continue monitoring developments and engage in informed discussions about the state of democracy in the country. 😊🇮🇳1243