Archive · 11 Aug 2025
Extending Electoral Cycles to 25 Years to Preserve Civilisational Identities
Imagine democracies are like a play, but the show changes every few years.
Some think this short cycle makes it hard to protect what's special to the majority of people, like their traditions.
The author suggests making the play last 25 years to focus on the big picture, like keeping a culture alive.
It could mean less fighting between groups and fewer leaders just trying to win quick votes.
Some worry this long play might make leaders less accountable.
The idea is that by slowing things down, countries like India and those in Europe can better protect their unique identities.
Secular democracies may struggle to preserve majority cultures in diverse societies.
The author suggests extending electoral cycles to 25 years to balance democratic principles with cultural preservation.
Longer electoral cycles could reduce societal fragmentation and corruption.
The proposal aims to help India and Europe preserve their civilisational identities.
Critics worry that longer cycles could decrease accountability and increase authoritarianism.
- Who
- The author, a retired IPS officer and former Director, CBI.
- What
- An article proposing extending democratic electoral cycles to 25 years to preserve cultural identities.
- When
- Not explicitly stated.
- Where
- Focuses on India and Europe.
- Why
- To balance democratic principles with the long-term preservation of cultural and civilisational identities.
Concerns over Accountability
Potential Benefits
Accountability
Concerns over Accountability
Extending electoral cycles might reduce accountability of leaders.
Potential Benefits
Accountability can be ensured through independent oversight bodies and citizen recall processes.
- Proposed Solution
- Extend electoral cycles to 25 years.
- Main Concern
- Preserving cultural identities of majority communities.
- Problem in Democracies
- Short-term focus and divisive electoral strategies.
- Examples of Erosion
- Hindu decline in India, Christian decline in Europe.
- Possible Benefit
- Reduced societal fragmentation and corruption.