- One of the most glaring differences between a democratic form of government and other forms like autocracy, totalitarian, authoritarian, monarchy, or oligarchy is that the former offers a level playing field and a great platform for airing opinions freely without any fear. Conversely, the other forms of government can be expected to not only suppress the voices of the people but also not allow the will of the people to be implemented for their own good. Policies/decisions/instructions are forcefully thrust on the people to be adhered to strictly in accordance with the whims and fancies of the leader(s) heading the government. It’s not rocket science to comprehend why a democratic form of governance is the most preferred by the global community.
PC: Mint
- However, the beauty of democracy lies in the fact that it is not perfect by any stretch of the imagination but holds the country together, taking along everyone irrespective of caste, class, creed, religion, and ethnicity. Nothing showcases this aspect better than the Indian democratic system that we are all so proud of. Democracy allows opposing voices to air their opinions freely without the state attempting to suppress them. The recent protests witnessed in Ladakh throw a challenge to the Union Government, which should engage in talks as a mature democracy rather than use police force to suppress the concerns. Of course, explanations for the bloodiest day in Ladakh that resulted in 04 deaths remain sharply divided between the govt and protesters.
PC: Times of India
- Nonetheless, one thing on which there should be consensus is that Ladakh stands at a fragile juncture and hence should be handled sensitively. The mood in the Himalayan desert region has darkened a lot since it became a separate Union Territory after the abrogation of Article 370. Engineer-innovator Sonam Wangchuk, who is at the forefront of the protests, has been arrested, with the govt linking last week’s mob violence and arson to his provocative speeches. None of this explains why four unarmed protesters died with multiple bullet wounds that day. Even those who don’t appreciate how Wangchuk’s been talking up a Gen-Z revolution of the Nepal type in Ladakh should recognize that over-strong police action is the opposite of a solution in this case.
PC: Al Jazeera
- Agreed, the big local asks of both statehood and inclusion in the Sixth Schedule are difficult to meet. With its 3L population, Ladakh has zero chance of getting statehood when it’s still denied to J&K. As for the Sixth Schedule, no govt, whatever its political stripe, is likely to open this Pandora’s box. If it did, Manipur would be ahead of Ladakh in the line. The GOI knows how to handle such a crisis by embracing an engaging mode. Certain demands put forth cannot be considered is an undeniable fact. Further, Ladhakis’ fears of becoming climate refugees are connected to real environmental vulnerabilities that need to be taken very seriously. As such, hearing and calming by the Centre is the need of the hour. Emotions should not be allowed to hijack talks.
