Introduction

In the annals of Indian history, the Emergency period of 1975-77 stands as a stark reminder of the fragility of democracy and the perils of authoritarian rule. Today, as the 18th Lok Sabha is inaugurated, echoes of that tumultuous era resonate once more. The return of outspoken critics and steadfast defenders of democratic values, such as Mahua Moitra and Amra Ram, symbolizes a burgeoning resistance against contemporary political forces that threaten to undermine the constitutional fabric of India.

Confidence for Democracy

Among those returning to the 18th Lok Sabha is Mahua Moitra from Bengal, who was previously expelled from Parliament for vociferously accusing the Modi government of authoritarianism. Another significant figure re-entering the political arena is Amra Ram, a stalwart of the farmers' movement and the vice-president of the All India Kisan Sabha. These individuals will be heralded as emblematic of the resurgence of democratic principles in India. The swearing-in ceremony of the 18th Lok Sabha saw a notable departure from tradition, with opposition members arriving armed with a potent symbol of resistance: a children's book. This "pocket pellet," as the politicians termed it, was none other than the Constitution of India. This document, a beacon of democracy, served as a formidable weapon against the autocratic tendencies of the Sangh Parivar politics, which have sought to propagate divisiveness and intolerance.

In this pivotal moment, a reflection on Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's prescient words during his last speech to the Constituent Assembly becomes profoundly relevant. He articulated a deep concern for the future of India, apprehensive that the nation might once again lose its hard-won independence due to internal discord and selfish interests. Ambedkar's apprehension about political parties prioritizing their parochial interests over national welfare resonates strongly today. His call to safeguard the constitutional values and freedoms, arduously attained by our forebears, underscores the imperative to remain vigilant and committed to democratic ideals. As Ambedkar poignantly noted: “What will happen to India's independence? Will it lose its independence again? I am concerned about the future of India. India once lost its freedom because of some headless sons. Will history repeat itself again? The reason for such concern now is when we realize some stark truths. Many political parties have been formed here in the name of caste, religion, class and colour. They all have their own interests. Will they put the interests of the nation above their own selfish interests? I have similar concerns about the constitution of democratic India. Will India uphold its constitutional values? Or lose it again. Anyway, we have to uphold our constitutional values and freedom till our last breath. It was earned by our forefathers. Never lose it' - BR Ambedkar (last speech in the Constituent Assembly, after the codification of the administrative structure, 1950-January 26).” This renewed dedication to the Constitution and the principles it enshrines is a clarion call to all citizens to resist the erosion of democratic norms and to strive towards a just and inclusive society.

Narendra Modi, who had orchestrated a narrative of inevitable victory through strategic alliances with wage survey agencies, faced an unexpected reality when the people's verdict was finally delivered. Despite predictions of a triumphant return to power for a third term, the electorate's decision compelled Modi to bow his head in acknowledgment of defeat. This outcome was perceived by the political sphere as the deflation of an overhyped spectacle, a manufactured "Modi show," that ultimately crumbled under the weight of democratic scrutiny. Throughout Modi's tenure, democratic values were systematically obfuscated, and dissenting voices were stifled. However, the enduring principles enshrined in the Constitution proved resilient, breaking through the constructed narratives perpetuated by a complicit media. This phenomenon underscores the indomitable power of constitutional values, which can pierce through even the most fortified media edifices.

The electoral battle in Ayodhya, particularly in the Faizabad constituency, provided a stark answer to the politically charged question of whether Modi's legacy or Gandhi's ideals would prevail. Post-election revelations of irregularities and corruption linked to the Ram Temple project further illuminated the extent of media manipulation orchestrated by Modi's regime. These disclosures highlighted a façade of integrity that masked pervasive corruption, revealing the true cost of media influence under Modi's governance. As these images of a compromised democracy reemerge with renewed vigor, they serve as a potent reminder of the necessity to uphold the principles of transparency and accountability. The resurgence of these democratic values signals a collective repudiation of authoritarianism and a reaffirmation of the constitutional ideals that form the bedrock of the Indian republic.

Among those returning to the political arena is Mahua Moitra from Bengal, who had been expelled from Parliament for her outspoken criticisms of the Modi government's authoritarianism. Moitra's parliamentary speech was particularly notable; she directly accused Narendra Modi during the citizenship agitation, asserting that "the blood of many people has been spilled on the soil of this country, but this country does not belong to anyone's father." Amit Shah had confidently declared that Moitra would never set foot in Parliament again. However, after a tenacious struggle, she returned to the assembly with an overwhelming majority of half a million votes.

Another significant figure reclaiming a position of power is Amra Ram, a prominent leader of the farmers' movement and the vice-president of the All India Kisan Sabha. He made a symbolic entry into Parliament by driving a tractor, defying the will of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had unequivocally stated that the farmers' strike would not reach Delhi. Amra Ram began and concluded his oath with the declarations, “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Samvidhan, Inquilab Zindabad,” signaling the enduring spirit of change. These leaders will be hailed as symbols of the resurgence of democratic values in India. The nation is gradually extricating itself from the clutches of dictatorship, with Parliament resonating with the ideals of brotherhood and tolerance reminiscent of its glory days.

A robust and constructive opposition, akin to the Constitution, is essential for the beauty of a democratic system. The role of the opposition in a democracy is paramount; a vigorous opposition can galvanize a complacent ruling party into action. The Constitution has inherent loopholes that can be exploited by those with authoritarian inclinations, but it is the duty of the opposition to check such tendencies. Both the ruling party, which undermines democratic principles, and the opposition, which neglects its responsibilities, are equally culpable for the erosion of democracy. This resurgence of democratic principles and the renewed vigor of the opposition underscore the resilience of India's democratic framework. It serves as a reminder that the battle against authoritarianism is ongoing and that the principles of democracy must be vigilantly defended to ensure a just and equitable society.

The major opposition parties, having coalesced into a coalition known as "India," strategically coordinated their electoral activities ahead of the parliamentary elections. This unified front effectively facilitated the opposition's re-entry into Parliament. Despite Modi's media and PR agencies' efforts to marginalize and mock the opposition parties, they were unable to stymie the opposition's gradual resurgence. The BJP's strategy of holding elections in six phases, aiming for a tally of 400 seats, ultimately faltered, allowing the opposition to gain momentum. The initial Modi effect dissipated as the election progressed, leading to a significant shift in the political landscape. As votes were counted, including those from Varanasi, the public's reaction was palpable; Modi's staged meditation on Vivekananda Rock, captured by thirteen cameras, became a source of ridicule. RSS leader Indresh Kumar publicly acknowledged the election results as a blow to arrogance, warning that failure to learn from this outcome would lead to greater setbacks.

The decision of the "India" coalition to sit in opposition, refusing to seize power through Amit Shah's notorious tactics of horse-trading and manipulation, is commendable. This stance reflects a principled commitment to restoring democracy through constructive intervention. Since the Prime Minister's swearing-in ceremony, the robust presence of Rahul Gandhi as the opposition's figurehead has been a reassuring sign for Democrats. The alliance unanimously designated Rahul Gandhi as the leader of the opposition, and his actions have demonstrated his aptitude for this role. After traversing the nation and championing the values of democracy and constitutional principles, Gandhi entered the House with meticulous calculations. He has matured into a formidable political leader, defying those who once derided him as "Pappu Mon."

This unified opposition and the strategic leadership of Rahul Gandhi signify a crucial step toward revitalising India's democratic framework. The resilience and strategic foresight of the "India" coalition have laid a solid foundation for a more robust and accountable parliamentary opposition, ensuring that democratic values remain at the forefront of India's political discourse. Let us hope that, the "India" front can overcome its internal disunities and emerge as a formidable opposition. It must stand as a vigilant guardian of the Constitution, always ready to defend against the ruling class's attempts to undermine the democratic system. In this spirit, the Samajwadi Party's letter to the Speaker, requesting the replacement of the sceptre of dictatorial pride with the Constitution of India, represents a vital corrective measure. The opposition must unconditionally resist the ruling party's flawed policies both inside and outside Parliament. Only when both the ruling and opposition parties fulfil their duties without hesitation can we hope for the true resurgence of democracy in India. May this renewed dedication to democratic principles herald a brighter, more equitable future for the nation.

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