Rethinking Governance: National Consultation Explores Challenges to Democracy and the Way Forward

Bengaluru, 26 March, 2025 – Civil society leaders, Jesuits, and activists convened at the Indian Social Institute, Bengaluru, on 19–20 March for a national consultation on constitutional democracy. The discussions addressed growing threats to democratic values, the role of civil society, and strategies to uphold constitutional governance.

Participants from Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, North India, and tribal regions raised concerns over the misuse of constitutional provisions, declining public awareness of rights, and the marginalisation of minorities. Media bias, corruption, and the weakening of federalism were also key topics.

Threats to Constitutional Democracy

Dr. Irfan Engineer warned that a strong constitution alone cannot safeguard democracy if those in power fail to uphold its principles. He pointed to electoral manipulation, religious influence in politics, and cultural distractions that divert attention from governance.

Discussions highlighted the erosion of democratic institutions, lack of accountability, and weakening opposition. Participants also expressed concerns about the centralisation of power and increasing human rights violations in regions like Nagpur and Sambhal.

Addressing Challenges Through Collective Action

Leading the session, Fr. Prakash Louis guided discussions on three key questions:

What are the main challenges in preserving constitutional democracy?

How can governance be strengthened?

What concrete steps can be taken to uphold constitutional values?

Group discussions identified issues such as misuse of legal provisions, rising casteism, and growing corruption. Participants proposed fostering constitutional literacy, engaging grassroots communities, and strengthening collaboration among civil society groups.

Several speakers criticised policies like ‘One Nation, One Election,’ arguing that it could weaken federalism. Others stressed the need for institutional reforms, particularly within the police and judiciary, to ensure justice. The use of legal tools, including the Right to Information (RTI) Act and Public Interest Litigations (PILs), was highlighted as an effective way to hold authorities accountable.

Civil Society’s Role in Strengthening Democracy

Participants urged civil society organisations to take a more proactive role in promoting constitutional values. Networking among grassroots groups was seen as crucial in preserving democracy. Suggestions included forming mohalla committees to encourage local governance participation and using national festivals to increase civic awareness.

The importance of independent media in countering misinformation was also discussed. Participants called for sustained campaigns to educate citizens on their rights and electoral responsibilities.

Historical Context and the Way Forward

In his concluding remarks, Fr. Prakash Louis examined historical and contemporary threats to democracy in India. He warned that political forces have long exploited divisions based on caste, ethnicity, patriarchy, and religion to maintain control. He identified systemic marginalisation through varna vyavastha (caste hierarchy), brahminism, and hindutva.

He criticised the focus on grand religious events like the Maha Kumbh while essential governance reforms remain neglected. He stressed the need for reforms in land rights, labour laws, judiciary, elections, education, and agriculture to ensure justice and democratic accountability.

Fr. Prakash urged civil society to embrace a common minimum understanding – a shared commitment to democratic values – and take common maximum action through grassroots movements, legal interventions, and public engagement. He emphasised that strengthening democracy requires ongoing collective action, not just one-time discussions.

The consultation concluded with a strong call for continued dialogue, public awareness, and collective efforts to protect constitutional democracy in India.

By Fr. Prakash Louis SJ