Archive · 12 Jun 2025
Shifting Focus: Protecting Democracy, Not Just the Constitution
The article discusses concerns about the state of democracy in India.
The Congress party has been saying the Constitution is in danger, which has prompted a deeper discussion about what specifically needs protecting.
The author suggests the focus should be on democracy itself because the Constitution is being used to hide a decline in democratic values.
They argue that focusing solely on the Constitution can prevent critical examination and potential reforms.
The article suggests that the real battle is for the heart of democracy, not just a document.
Congress has used "Samvidhan khatre mein hai" as a rallying cry since the 2024 elections.
Rallies were organized across multiple states, including Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Uttar Pradesh.
The author argues the focus should shift from the Constitution to democracy itself.
The author suggests that repeatedly subverting constitutional arrangements for short-term gain is happening.
Over-reliance on the Constitution could stifle critical engagement and make structural change difficult.
- Who
- Anmol Jain, writer and teacher at Jindal Global Law School; the Congress party; and citizens.
- What
- The discourse surrounding the protection of the Constitution and democracy in India.
- When
- Since the 2024 general elections.
- Where
- Across India, specifically in states like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, and Goa.
- Why
- To highlight concerns about the erosion of democratic values and to propose a shift in focus from the Constitution to democracy itself.
Supporters of Constitutional Focus
Advocates for Democratic Focus
Central Narrative
Supporters of Constitutional Focus
Prioritizing protection of the Constitution.
Advocates for Democratic Focus
Focus on the health of democracy.
Critical Engagement
Supporters of Constitutional Focus
View the Constitution as a relic.
Advocates for Democratic Focus
Believe in critical engagement and necessary reforms.
- Rallying Cry
- "Samvidhan khatre mein hai"
- Political Party
- Congress
- Focus of the Argument
- Democracy
- Author's Profession
- Law Teacher