External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar defended the state of democracy in India at the Munich Security Conference, stating it is not in global decline as suggested. He highlighted strong voter participation in India and argued that democracy provides essential support, including food security for millions. Jaishankar also criticized the West for its historical view of democracy and urged a recognition of successful democratic models beyond its borders.
In a recent discussion at the Munich Security Conference, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar asserted that democracy, particularly in India, is not under threat, contrary to prevalent beliefs. During the panel titled “Live to Vote Another Day: Fortifying Democratic Resilience,” which included notable figures such as Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store and U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized the success of Indian democracy, especially reflected in voting turnout rates.
He pointed out that more citizens are participating in elections today than decades ago, with approximately two-thirds of eligible voters actively voting in national elections. This participation underscores his perspective that democracy remains robust in India, contradicting the argument that it faces global challenges. He highlighted the fact that, post-elections, results are indisputable and widely accepted.
Responding to Senator Slotkin’s assertion that democracy does not provide sustenance, Mr. Jaishankar rebutted, stating, “Actually, in my part of the world, it does because we are a democratic society, we give nutrition support, and food to 800 million people…” He articulated that different regions undergo distinct challenges and aspirations regarding democracy, urging against coercive assumptions of universal decline.
On the issue of aspirations for democracy within the Global South, Jaishankar remarked that while each nation holds its unique characteristics, there remains a consensus that democracy is a fundamental aspiration. He cited India’s democratic model, chosen post-independence, as an example of successful governance in a diverse society.
Furthermore, he criticized the West for historically viewing democracy as a characteristic exclusive to them. He observed that the West continues to act hypocritically by encouraging undemocratic forces in the Global South while professing values of democracy at home. He encouraged the West to recognize and learn from successful democracies outside its borders, including India’s ongoing commitment to democracy amid various challenges.
In conclusion, Minister S. Jaishankar’s remarks at the Munich Security Conference highlighted the resilience of democracy in India while challenging the notion that democracy is globally in decline. He pointed out the increasing voter turnout in Indian elections as evidence of a thriving democratic process. Furthermore, he criticized the West’s approach to democracy and underscored the need for a broader acceptance of diverse democratic models worldwide. Jaishankar’s perspective calls for an understanding of the unique contexts of different nations’ democratic experiences.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
