A Failing (and Non-Existent) Democracy

The Nation of Religion Suppression The suppression of minority voices, as exemplified by the instances discussed, raises serious concerns about India’s commitment to secularism and democratic values. While the Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of religion and expression, the lived reality often diverges from these principles. The politicization of religious identities and the marginalization of certain communities undermine the secular foundation upon which India was so-called founded. The erosion of democratic norms, evident during the Emergency period and now under the Modi government signifies a broader trend of authoritarianism that jeopardizes the pluralistic ethos of the nation. The democratic fabric of India is under strain as the space for dissent narrows, and the rights of minority communities face systematic challenges such as Sikhs. The government’s failure to address the grievances of the Sikh community even decades after 1984, signals that there is not only a growing perception of inequality but truly a presence of an unequal and unjust society. The suppression of minority voices in India, as evidenced by the experiences of the Muslim and Sikh communities, is a critical issue that demands sustained attention. India’s identity as a secular and democratic nation is at stake when the voices of its minorities are stifled, leading to feelings of alienation and disillusionment among their own people. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society when the nation does claim to be a democracy on the global stage.