Evolving Indian Politics: How We Can Make Our Government More Effective and Ethical

When discussing the implications of the recent Uttar Pradesh election results, I was both intrigued and concerned. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured 255 seats, falling short of their claim of 312. This shift towards change in voter behavior highlights the need for a more accountable and efficient political system. One striking anecdote shared by a Quora user revealed the incompetence of a BJP MLA who, instead of addressing their concerns, directed citizens to seek solutions from Yogendra Yadav, whom they had voted for in the first place.

Such instances illustrate a broader trend where political parties often nominate celebrities, sports figures, and even corrupt business leaders and local gangsters without ensuring they are capable of representing their constituents. This practice undermines public trust and governance.

The Importance of Selecting the Right Candidates

Just as only the best and brightest students secure admission to prestigious institutions like IITs, where their decisions impact thousands, our parliamentary system, with only 543 seats, requires integrity and competency from its representatives. It is crucial for elected officials to be well-informed, transparent, and accountable to the needs of the people.

Political parties and the Election Commission should consider implementing a stringent selection process for candidates. This process should include an aptitude test to ensure that candidates possess the necessary qualifications and character. Additionally, criteria such as a minimum 12th grade education, absence of criminal records, and knowledge of basic general awareness questions can help filter out unqualified candidates. Regular evaluations and midterm reports can also be implemented post-election to assess their performance and ensure transparency.

Implementing Reforms for a Better Future

Key reform measures could include mandatory background checks and ethical reviews for all candidates. This would discourage the nomination of individuals with a history of corruption or criminal activities. Furthermore, a mid-term evaluation of candidates after two years of their term could facilitate a more responsive and accountable government. This evaluation should include ground-level feedback and ensure continuous improvement in governance.

Preventing Concentration of Power and Ensuring Fairness

To prevent the concentration of power and avoid the creation of an elitist political class, rules should be put in place to limit consecutive terms. No individual should be allowed to contest for a third consecutive term. Additionally, to prevent the undue influence of family members in politics, it should be mandatory for only one member of a family to contest from a particular seat. This measure would promote decentralized power and prevent the establishment of powerful political families that can dominate the electoral process.

Conclusion

Evolving our political system to prioritize ethics, competence, and transparency is crucial for the sustained development of India. By implementing these measures, we can foster a more just and effective governance system. It is our collective responsibility as citizens to demand accountability and improvement from our elected representatives. Let us collectively work towards a future where politics is used for the betterment of society, not personal gain.