India Has Proven That Democracy Can Deliver: PM Modi’s Message Ahead of Winter Session
- MGMMTeam
- 1 day ago
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As the Winter Session of Parliament commenced, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set a decisive tone by declaring that “India has proven that democracy can deliver.” His remarks came shortly after the Bihar assembly election results, where increased voter turnout—particularly among women—was celebrated as a reaffirmation of the nation’s democratic strength. Modiji emphasised that India does not treat democracy merely as a system of governance but as a cultural identity deeply woven into the nation’s ethos.
He reminded citizens that the vibrant participation of voters reflects an unwavering trust in India’s institutions, showcasing how democratic processes continue to evolve and empower people at every level. This sentiment, he argued, should guide the conduct and purpose of Parliament as it enters a crucial legislative phase.
A Direct Message to the Opposition
Alongside his praise for democratic participation, Prime Minister Modi delivered a pointed message to the Opposition benches. He urged them to prioritise constructive engagement over repeated disruptions, saying that Parliament needs “delivery, not drama.” Modiji suggested that the Opposition’s performance in recent elections should prompt introspection rather than aggression in the House.
He even remarked that he would be willing to offer “tips” to help Opposition parties rebuild credibility, underlining that democratic forums flourish only when every side engages with sincerity, discipline, and clarity of purpose. Modiji called for younger parliamentarians—often overshadowed during prolonged disruptions—to be given the space to express their views and contribute meaningfully.
A Session Loaded with Expectations and Challenges
The Winter Session carries significant legislative weight. The government has introduced several new bills while also scheduling a special discussion to commemorate 150 years of Vande Mataram. Meanwhile, the Opposition is pushing for debates on issues such as the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls, signalling friction over electoral transparency.
However, the larger concern voiced by democratic experts revolves around the overall health of parliamentary functioning. Recent years have seen a decline in the number of working days, increasing adjournments, and reduced deliberation. Institutional observers warn that frequent gridlocks weaken Parliament’s ability to perform its foundational role—scrutinising laws, debating policies, and holding the government accountable.
This session, therefore, is not just about passing bills but about restoring the credibility of parliamentary dialogue. Whether the ruling party and the Opposition rise above political rivalry to ensure meaningful debate will determine how successfully Parliament can reflect the democratic aspirations Modiji celebrated.
The Broader Democratic Context
Prime Minister Modi’s emphasis on delivery echoes his earlier remarks during past sessions, where he criticised disruptions as “hooliganism” and “an insult to voters.” His consistent argument is that the Indian electorate repeatedly rewards governance and punishes negativity.
Yet critics raise an important counterpoint: while efficiency in passing legislation is necessary, democratic vitality depends equally on debate, dissent, and scrutiny. They argue that without robust discussion, the legislative process risks becoming mechanical, undermining long-term governance quality. This tension between speed and deliberation is likely to shape the coming weeks of parliamentary activity.
The MGMM Outlook
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks at the start of the Winter Session highlight a confident narrative of India’s democratic strength. By citing the high voter turnout in the recent Bihar elections, especially among women, he underscored how democratic participation has become a core part of India’s cultural identity rather than just a system of governance. Modiji’s message emphasizes that India’s institutions continue to empower citizens, reflecting a democracy that is not stagnant but evolving with the active engagement of its people. He also stressed that Parliament must rise to the occasion, prioritizing meaningful legislation and constructive participation over theatrics, signaling that the true measure of democracy is in delivery rather than mere debate.
At the same time, Modiji directed a firm message to the Opposition, urging introspection and collaboration rather than repeated disruptions. He encouraged giving younger parliamentarians a platform to contribute, reinforcing the need for inclusive and disciplined debate. While the session is packed with legislative responsibilities and commemorative discussions, the underlying challenge remains the effective functioning of Parliament. The emphasis on efficiency, constructive engagement, and voter trust sets a benchmark for parliamentary conduct, reminding all stakeholders that India’s democratic credibility relies not only on elections but also on the consistent, responsible exercise of legislative authority.
(Sources: Hindustan Times, Economic Times, India Today)
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