Explain the essential condition for the sucessful working of a democracy
Answers
Democracy can be made a model form of government, if the following conditions are fulfilled:
An important condition for the success of democracy is universal education. The citizens can develop necessary qualities and become aware of their rights and duties only when they are properly educated.
Political Consciousness: It is essential to inculcate political consciousness among the citizens to make democracy effective. Citizens must keep an eye on the government so that it does not grow authoritarian.
The presence of a strong public opinion: An important condition of democracy is the existence of a free, fearless and unfettered press, which vigilantly guards democracy.
In a democracy, the citizens must be able to enjoy basic civic rights and freedom so that can express and develop their personality. In a democracy people are given fundamental rights because in the absence of these rights the development of an individual is not possible. Fundamental rights have been granted to the people in their constitutions in India, Japan, USA, France and Italy.
To make democracy successful, all kinds of social, economic and political inequalities must be removed. The people must be democratic-minded. On the political side, a democratic government ensures equality of men by giving every citizen the right to cast only one vote irrespective of status. Similarly, in the social and economic spheres too, a democratic government must create equal opportunities for all. In a democracy there can be no place for any discrimination based on caste, class, birth, religion or wealth. In other words, there should prevail social justice in a democracy. However, in order that there is real social justice in a democracy, a democratic state must try to eliminate vast inequalities of wealth and ensure equitable distribution of wealth.
A democracy also depends on good leadership. Effective leadership is a must if democracy has to be successful.
In a democracy, the constitution guarantees basic rights and freedoms to the citizens. In a democracy, it is the responsibility of the judiciary to protect the fundamental rights of the people and stand as the guardian of the constitution. In order that the judiciary is able to do that, it must be independent of any political influence. Accordingly, Independence of Judiciary is another pre-condition for the success of democracy. In our country, the Supreme Court and the High Courts protect the Constitution and the fundamental rights of the people.