International Day of Democracy
Stuid
The International Day of Democracy is observed every year across the globe on September 15th. The day is also known as World Democracy Day. The day stresses on the importance of participation of all members for the proper functioning of a democracy.
The day provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy across the world.
History & Significance
In 2007, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution to observe International Day of Democracy. On September 15, 2008, the first International Day of Democracy was celebrated by 46 national parliaments. The day encourages governments across the world to strengthen and consolidate their respective democracies.
The celebrations for the day include photography competitions, workshops for children, live television debates, radio phone-in programmes and meetings with various civic organizations. A strong parliament is vital for ensuring peace and development in the country. It ensures that justice is delivered on time and human rights of its citizens are protected.
According to the UN official website, “ Democracy is as much a process as a goal, and with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.”
The Indian Democracy
India is the largest democracy in the world. After years of British colonial rule, India finally gained its independence and became a democratic nation in the year 1947. Indian democracy is fueled by the spirit of justice, liberty and equality.
Sovereignty is an important feature of Indian democracy. It means the governing body has full power over itself without any outside interference. People can exercise power, they can elect their representatives. The elected representatives will remain responsible for the welfare of the people who voted them to power.
Every Indian citizen enjoys equal political rights. There is no room for discrimination on the basis of religion, caste, creed, race, sect, etc.No one is above the law of the country.
In Indian democracy, the party which wins the most number of seats in the election, forms and runs the government.
Indian democracy is federal. Our country is a union of states. The states are somewhat autonomous, they enjoy their fair share of freedom in certain matters.
Collective responsibility is another highlight of Indian democracy. No minister alone is responsible for any act of their government. The council of Ministers are collectively responsible for the state of affairs in their respective legislatures.
Most importantly, the Indian legislature provides a platform for expressing public opinion. In our country, the government and its institutions are required to function on the basis of public opinion.
Rejection of propaganda, constant communication with elected officials, ensuring huge voter turnout for elections are few simple ways for strengthening our democracy.
It becomes the duty and responsibility of every citizen of this great nation to safeguard the spirit of our democracy. Let India shine forever as the ‘largest’ democracy in the world in its true spirit and integrity!
“Where you see wrong or inequality or injustice, speak out, because this is your country. This is your democracy. Make it. Protect it. Pass it on.”
Thurgood Marshall (American civil rights lawyer)
Also Read: Hindi, the official language
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