Reclamation by Bhumika Anand
Reviewed by Mahima Kohli
Reclamation by Bhumika Anand
Reviewed by Mahima Kohli
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
First Prize (shared)
Essay Topic: How might Gandhi have responded to the way elections are conducted today, looking at one or more of the following: (1) election financing; (2) campaign rhetoric; or (3) the election commission.
Gandhi vs. the Election Circus
by
Krishna Kalal
DPS Bopal, Ahmedabad
Mahatma Gandhi, a towering figure in the Indian independence movement, left an enduring legacy that extends beyond the realm of political freedom. Gandhi's philosophy of non-violence and his vision of democracy, often referred to as "integral democracy," offer insights into
how he might have responded to the contemporary challenges in the conduct of elections. In exploring this, we will examine three key aspects: election financing, campaign rhetoric, and the role of the election commission.
To understand how Gandhi might respond to modern elections, we must first delve into his conception of democracy. Unlike the Western liberal view of representative democracy, Gandhi's integral democracy envisions a society without representative government, capitalist greed, and social hierarchies. His emphasis on citizenship duty, ethical renewal, and enlightened citizenship sets his model apart from conventional notions of democracy.
Gandhi's democracy is not merely a political institution but a form of "shared sovereignty," where ethics play a pivotal role in governing society. Rejecting the individualistic and materialistic nature of Western liberal thought, Gandhi advocates for a moral and ethical foundation for political life. His philosophy of non-violence becomes a transformative dynamic, offering an ethical solution to the pervasive issues of injustice and inequality.
A well-functioning democracy requires vibrant political parties and competitive elections. Political parties perform several crucial functions, including: ‘‘1) the integration and mobilisation of citizens; 2) the articulation and aggregation of interests; 3) the formulation of public policy; 4) the recruitment of political leaders; and 5) the organisation of Parliament and government.’’ In order to function effectively and to fulfil these roles, to run for and win office, or to serve as an effective opposition, political parties and their candidates need significant financial resources. India has had a mixed record in coming to terms with this reality.
Gandhi, a fervent advocate of simplicity and moral integrity, would find the elaborate and often opaque nature of election financing deeply troubling. In his vision, the means to achieve political ends must align with ethical values, a sentiment that sharply contradicts the prevalent trend of massive financial contributions, corporate sponsorships, and the influence of money in shaping political outcomes.
Gandhi's integral democracy hinges on the active participation of citizens in political processes, with an emphasis on decentralised decision-making. In contrast, the current state of election financing often fosters a system where a select few wield disproportionate influence through financial contributions. This clash amplifies the ideological dissonance, as Gandhi envisions a democracy where the voice of every individual, irrespective of financial standing, holds equal weight.
Gandhi's critique of modern civilization's materialistic values finds resonance in his clash with election financing. The lavish spending on political campaigns, the commodification of candidates, and the prioritisation of economic interests over ethical considerations starkly contrast with Gandhi's vision of a society grounded in moral values, simplicity, and self-sufficiency.
Election financing, with its reliance on corporate donations and vested interests, becomes a battleground where the spirit of democracy faces a formidable adversary in the Gandhian narrative. The drama unfolds as Gandhi's principles challenge the very foundations of a system where financial prowess often dictates political success, raising questions about the legitimacy and morality of such power dynamics. How much of that money is actually put to good use? Is there actually no nexus between black money and political fundraising? What is the strategy behind the expense utilisation? Questions that are never addressed.
Gandhi, an apostle of truth and non-violence, envisioned a political landscape where integrity and sincerity prevailed. The drama unfolds as his unwavering commitment to honesty clashes with the intricate web of exaggerations, half-truths, and at times, outright falsehoods that characterise much of modern campaign rhetoric. At the heart of Gandhi's ideology is the belief in the transformative power of dialogue and constructive communication. His commitment to open, respectful discourse contradicts the confrontational and divisive nature of contemporary campaign rhetoric. The drama intensifies as Gandhi's vision of political dialogue as a means of understanding and cooperation faces off against the bombastic, polarising language that often dominates election campaigns.
What are the current elections even about? Language and civility are two prime victims of this vicious poll campaign. Hate speech makes a minority cower even as a vast section of the majority is made to feel insecure and besieged. Many Hindus are driven by religious fervour and nationalism. Their feeling are magnified many times by the slavish TV channels, newspapers and social media.
These days, there is no level field in these elections as the ruling party is spending many times more money on propaganda than all other parties combined. The dark money amounting to more than half the funds circulates freely as the donors remain anonymous.
Mahatma Gandhi's opinions about the election commission, if he were to express them in the context of modern democratic processes, would likely reflect his broader principles of ethical governance, transparency, and the empowerment of the people. Transparency and accountability would be paramount for Gandhi. He would likely advocate for an election commission that operates with complete openness, providing the public with clear information about the electoral procedures, campaign financing, and the decisions made. Gandhi's vision of democracy involves an informed and engaged citizenry, and he would expect the election commission to facilitate this through transparent practices.
However, the recent attempts of the Government to curtail the independence of the Election Commission would really dishearten Gandhian ideology. The Union government introduced a Bill which proposes that election commissioners will be selected by a panel led by the Prime Minister, with the leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha and a Union cabinet minister as members. The bill also eliminates the Chief Justice of India from the Election Commission of India’s chief selection panel. If this bill passes, it’s very obvious that the only independent body that is in force right now will also lose its power and be forced to work under the Executive.
Gandhian ideology was about ethical principles but politics now has just turned out to be a furious battle for power. The prominent amount of corruption, intricate web of exaggeration, half-truths and at times outright falsehoods that characterise modern politics in no way is capable of achieving the kind of future that Gandhi had dreamed of.
As we witness this clash of ideologies, it raises profound questions about the future of democracy. Can a system that thrives on financial prowess, divisive rhetoric, and political manoeuvring truly fulfil the aspirations of a just and ethical society? The drama leaves us pondering the true cost of political victories achieved through questionable means and the long-term impact on the democratic fabric.
Will we continue down a path where the pursuit of power eclipses ethical considerations, or can we, inspired by Gandhi's principles, usher in an era where democracy is a true reflection of the collective will, grounded in truth, non-violence, and the shared sovereignty of an enlightened citizenry? I end this essay with a question mark as the current state of politics in our country has not really been able to mark a full stop on any sentence in my mind.
Thank you.
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
First Prize (shared)
Essay Topic: Would a Gandhian today support a uniform civil code? If yes, what would he/she say should be its core approach or elements? If no, why not?
The Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize
by
Jasnoor Matharoo
Yadavindra Public School, Mohali
We’ve all heard about the Uniform Civil Code but are we actually aware of what it means? India is a country of diverse traditions, beliefs and language. Every aspect is unique and valuable in its own way and contributes to the beauty and strength of an entire nation. But, among these positive aspects exists a lot of tangles that run counter to our core values of equality, fairness and respect for all, for which the Uniform Civil Code comes in consideration of whether it’ll be a boon or a bane for our country.
First, let us consider Gandhi’s unwavering commitment to equality and justice. He is likely to support a single public bill addressing discriminatory practices in existing private law, particularly those that prevent equal rights for women, such as unequal property rights. However, his peaceful nature and devotion to the truth would guide his approach. Instead of advocating a uniform mandate, Gandhi might support greater consultation with communities. Emphasis on respectful dialogue will ensure that their concerns are heard and addressed, the communities should strive for legislation that truly represents their needs and is truly successful once implemented. This principle of inclusion would be in line with his respect for diversity; he acknowledges that India’s vibrant textiles are inspired by many traditional weaves and cultural expressions.
Gandhi believed that one-size-fits-all solutions often ignore the unique needs and traditions of different communities. Instead, he advocated the word "Swaraj" which means self-government, encouraging communities to take ownership of their problems and find solutions through local initiatives. This may include the creation of a village council to mediate conflicts and initiate health and sanitation campaigns led by local volunteers, or reviving traditional crafts to generate income.
In an equitable civil code, the Gandhian spirit of local control can translate into meaningful dialogue at the village level. Think of these conversations not as heated discussions, but as open discussions where older people share their customs, women share their concerns about discriminatory practices, and younger people offer new perspectives.
Ideas can emerge from these conversations, and are not imposed from above, but built from the ground up. These proposals should address the specific needs identified by communities, respect their traditions and adhere to broad principles of equity and fairness. However, Gandhi recognized the need for balance. While advocating local solutions, he never lost sight of the need for national unity. He envisioned community infrastructure that would contribute to the master plan, providing equal opportunities and protections for all citizens, regardless of location.
Moreover, Gandhi’s flexibility and understanding of the needs of a changing society would influence his vision of a uniform civil code. He would not advocate rigid and inconsistent laws. Instead, he would prefer a flexible framework that can change over time, with both local change and community-driven change. This approach acknowledges that traditions evolve, and legal systems still address contemporary challenges.
Known for promoting non-violence and unity, Gandhi could argue that a Constitution should transcend religious boundaries and bring harmony to the various communities we belong to. Some say the establishment of a constitution could be considered as a violation of religious freedom, a value Gandhi valued. This aspect can cope with Gandhi’s determination to work together and his respect for tradition requires a more sophisticated approach that allows for individual codes.
As a strong believer in Gandhian principles and a citizen striving for a more just India, I believe that any one Constitution can be an instrument for positive change, but only if it’s put together with careful and collective consideration. It was Gandhi, an advocate of unity and equality, who saw the need for social reform. He found that countless individuals and communities were held back by traditional practices such as child marriage or gender discrimination.
"Every custom, though it may have held good once, loses its beauty the moment it becomes harmful to society." This quote from Mahatma Gandhi reflects the importance of rethinking and adapting traditions to the needs of a changing and rapidly developing society. It means that cultural practices must be respected, harms or inequities must be addressed and improved. I firmly believe that if a Uniform Constitution is drafted with the right intelligence, there can be a way to address these harmful practices and ensure equal and greater rights for all, and thus for a nation it is a modern and successful fruit.
True unity does not mean forcing everyone to sing the same song. It’s about finding unity where every voice, every tradition, is in harmony with equality and justice as a guiding chorus. However, Gandhi excelled in diversity and cultural understanding. He believed that true unity comes not from homogeneity, but from a celebration of uniqueness that makes us who we are. "Unity in diversity is India's true strength," he said. So, the Uniform Constitution treads well. Imposing the same legal system without recognizing and respecting traditions and customs is disastrous and comes to silence minority voices and undermine the very interests of our nation.
Think of it as a uniform code of not just a single thread, but a skilled weaver directing the threads into a harmonious arrangement. To do this, we need to have open and respectful communication. Communities need to be allowed to voice concerns, voice their opinions, and reach consensus with one another. It is through such dialogue that we can develop societal norms that uphold universal values such as equity and fairness.
I want this discussion to go beyond just a legal debate. Given that traditions evolve and change over time, we need to enter into a spirit of empathy and understanding.
Practices that served our ancestors well may not hold the same relevance in a rapidly changing and modernising world, but Gandhi himself constantly re-evaluated his beliefs and practices according to the needs of his time. I know this process will not be easy and there will be a mountain of disagreements, complications and compromises. But if it is carried out with Gandhian guiding principles – equality, non-violence and respect for all – then we can dress in uniform. A civil code that strengthens the bonds of unity while celebrating the vibrant colours of our diverse nation.
To conclude, I would like to say that a uniform civil code is not a magic solution. It is a tool whose effectiveness depends on how we use it. Let us introduce ourselves to the wisdom of Gandhi and ensure that justice and equality is a form, an expression of respect and a celebration of the unique threads that make India an incredible country.
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
Second Prize (shared)
Essay Topic: Would a Gandhian today support a uniform civil code? If yes, what would he/she say should be its core approach or elements? If no, why not?
The Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize
by
Samaira Gargi
DPS Bopal, Ahmedabad
Uniform Civil Code is to formulate and implement personal laws of citizens which applies to all citizens equally regardless of their religion, gender and sexual orientation. This is to replace the existing diverse personal laws based on religion with a legal code that applies uniformly to all the citizens. Implementation of a uniform civil code is one of the contentious promises pursued by India’s ruling party Bhartiya Janata Party. This has been a Subject of debate in India as herein all the religious communities have their own sets of personal laws.
Gandhian mind-set refers to beliefs inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s principles. Its key practices include ahimsa (non-violence), satyagraha (truthfulness), swaraj (self-reliance), simple living, interfaith harmony, morals and ethics, and the pursuit of justice and equality. It emphasizes simplicity, humility, and the idea of serving each other.
I believe yes, that a Gandhian today would support the Uniform Civil Code because the word uniform in its uniformity aligns with ideal of the Gandhian mind-set; in other words the elements of the UCC align with the main 5 principles set by M.K. Gandhi in pre-independence India which led to a mildly peaceful independence procession.
Under the Gandhian mind-set the core elements that must be implemented in the Uniform Civil Code would be defined as transparency, decentralisation at a deeper level (local government), complete eradication of caste discrimination, and eradication of poverty, equality and basic education as these are just the common rights that a human being deserves just for existing as believed by Gandhi ji. Let me elaborate on this more:
Transparency:
Transparency here would mean transparency by the government in making decisions. Whether it’s Legislature, Executive or Judiciary all the governments need to show the transparency in their work as it makes a government more open, accountable and accessible to its citizens, keeping them well informed about the government activities and decisions. There are several acts imposed to implement this principle, to name a few: Right to Information Act (2005), budget transparency, social audits, etc. These acts are for the welfare for the citizens when used correctly and coherently, as they can be hindered by the corruption that runs alongside the politics of the country.
Although, as written earlier, there are acts imposed, these acts need to be taken seriously under the UCC as this civil code will be imposed on each and every citizen of India.
Decentralisation on Deeper level:
Although the imposition of the third level i.e. the local government, has taken place, they lack economic and decision making autonomy. The lack of autonomy makes them vulnerable to the powers of the state, the eleventh schedule is not enough to specify the power of the local government as this is the government directly in contact with the daily affairs of the people. Implementation of decentralisation on deeper level would encourage
a) An efficient decision making that can boost the growth of the country as they understand the challenges and needs of the people in a better way which can make the government more responsive and responsible with their actions.
b) Promotion of civic participation as directly connected to people, which in turn would develop great governments as a government in India is by the people
c) Efficient allocation of resources which would boost the innovation and the experimentation which will help all the regions as each region has diverse challenges and different situations, and this in turn would foster economic development and independency
d) Maintaining cultural and regional diversity without overshadowing or raising up only the major community, which will empower all the communities to be a part of active decision making.
Complete Eradication of Caste Discrimination:
This is an important element or principle that should be implemented in a UCC inspired by the Gandhian mind-set. This principle would mean that all the people, no matter which caste they are from, should be treated equally as in the pre independent times casteism was very prominent – and it still is in many parts of the country. It supports the basic rights of the citizens, that is, to be treated with human dignity, acceptance of inter-caste marriage, social integration, and breaking away from the rigidity of caste-based occupations. These are the basic fundamental rights of the people stated in Article 12-35 contained in the 3rd part of the Constitution that can only be overruled but the elements of the 9th schedule of the Constitution. Even though the provisions have been made and implemented there are a lot of times in daily life that they are violated and communal riots being a major part of such diverse country, they hinder the growth of the people. These riots have been going on since before the Independence and there’s only limited suppression that minorities can take as it is always the suppressed that act out as they don’t feel heard while their rights are violated.
Eradication of Poverty:
This is pen of the most important elements that should be in the core elements of the UCC as Gandhi once said “No one is born poor; society makes one poor” and followed it by calling poverty a moral collapse of the society making it one of the seven social evils. Poverty must be eradicated in a sense that it develops not only the human capital but also gives people the ability to afford basic and everyday needs. There are some citizens of the country that fall below the poverty line making them miserable financially and stressed socially. Working with this principle would give people a moral imperative in a socio-economic status and would create a more cohesive and inclusive society that can foster a sense of community and shared responsibility, mitigating social dividend and promoting cooperation. India will never be a developed country unless poverty is eradicated is a statement that should be believed by everyone as a country can never be developed if its citizens are not developed.
Should I do it or should I not do it but well it’s already done
Equality:
It should be the first and the foremost principle of modern India that must be implanted in the UCC, but in what sense?
Equality is needed for the basic human dignity in other works everyone should be treated equally irrespective of their caste, gender, religion or socio-economic status. India was one of the first countries under the colonial rule to implement the suffrage for both common men and women at the same time. Political equality is also a hug element of this as inclusion of each and every individual in the political process is important as government in idea is of the people and everyone should have equal access to it. Sargodha i.e. welfare for all is what is believed by the Gandhi an mind-set and is one of the core beliefs of this philosophy, this commitment was envisioned for a society where benefits of development would reach the weakest and poorest, ensuring overall social and economic equality.
Basic Education:
Nai Talim is a concept articulated by Gandhi ji that refers to new education as he believed that everyone must get basic education. There are some definitions that emphasise this:
a) Holistic education focused on developing mind, body and spirit aimed at nurturing individuals to become responsible and ethical members of the society
b) Integration of work and education, in other words, with education there must always be productive work included; for example, manual labour or craft based skill must be included in the educational curriculum
c) Education for character building revolves around moral education and that an individual must have strong ethical values.
d) Also aiming at preserving cultural roots as India’s heritage is one that is ancient and unique at the same time. Fostering different types of rituals in in the same national context.
To be or not to be is the question that remains in my mind she
These are all the elements that should be implemented in the Uniform Civil Code from the view of a Gandhian as this will foster the collective sense of nationalism, social and economic dignity giving people social justice; foster a sense of inclusivity, providing a forum for gender equality, establishing communal harmony, leading to simplicity and accessibility; provide autonomy to the local government; create a government free of corruption thus promoting an ethical government and empowering not only the future youth but also the present handlers of the country.
These elements would strike a balance between uniformity and diversity in the complexity of India that usually needs and requires careful consideration of various perspectives. These are the elements that have been around the country just as an idea but now is the right to impose them as these are the approaches that are not only important to be imposed from the mind-set of a Gandhian but also important to be imposed to grow the country in the right direction.
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
Third Prize
Essay Topic: Can the recently enacted reservation for women in parliament be considered Gandhian? Should it include Dalit and OBC quotas within it or should there be women’s quotas in existing Dalit and OBC reservation?
The Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize
by
Chandana P
Parikrma Junior College, Bengaluru
Caste is an social group where an individual is born within a particular system – SC, ST or OBC. Dalit is treated as the lowest caste in the Hindu social hierarchy. Before independence Dalits were treated very badly – they were not allowed to take water from wells, Dalit children were not allowed to enter classes, Dalit women were sexual servants for upper classmen. They were hanged, raped and tortured if they try to defeat the upper-class people. OBC category people are educationally or socially backward.
In earlier days, parents were ashamed if a girl was born in their homes. Girls were forced to get married before they reached puberty and were made to do domestic work only done by women. Women were considered weak compared to men, they were not allowed to go to schools instead they had to perform household chores. Chatrapathi Shahu, Maharaj of Kolhapur introduced reservation for backward classes that came into existence in the year 1902.
We always see men represented the most in various fields and women are given less opportunities. Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869 into a Gujarati Hindu Modh Bania family in Porbander. Many of the writings and speeches of Gandhiji comment on the sacrifice of a women. He learnt the fundamental aspects of soul politics from his mother and wife. Gandhi was totally opposed to gender discrimination, he did not like that Indian society was always supporting boys and generally neglected a girl child. Gandhi always believed that women could do much to transform India on all levels. He also believed that equal rights for women and men were necessary. Gandhi said that if women is weak in striking, but she is strong in suffering. Gandhi also said, “Women is the embodiment of sacrifice and ahimsa”. He further states, “A daughters share must be equal to that of a son.” He preferred girls to remain unmarried all their lives than to be humiliated by marrying a man.
Most of the illiterate tribal women joined the freedom struggle along with Gandhi. To educate women, Jyotirao Phule and Savitribai Phule started first schooling for girls. Girls were sent to schools and they were provided education. As the women were educated they started being independent and participated in various fields. After numerous struggles regarding women’s reservation in parliament and the caste system, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar first articulated caste inequality in Indian society. Later, he demanded educational rights, equality and right to property for women. He also demanded public drinking water resources open to all, and right for all castes to enter temples and schools.
Yes, recently enacted reservation for women in parliament might be considered Gandhian because Gandhi always said everyone should get equal opportunities everywhere. Women should also participate in many fields even if she is not given equal chance compared to men. Agnes Macphail became the first women parliament member in the world. In India, when the first Lok Sabha was elected in 1952, women made up only 4.4% of the body. As the years passed, women’s representation stood at 12 percent in 1980. To remedy low participation of women electors, India in 1994 established reservation through Constitutional Amendments to reserve 28.3% of seats in the local government for women. Currently, India’s lower house, the Lok Sabha has 78 elected women MPs out of 543 seats, that is, 14.36% of the total number of MPs are women. A total of 102 women parliamentarians are serving as of 2023. The Women’s Reservation Bill, which passed both the houses of parliament will ensure that women will occupy at least 33 percent of the seats in state legislative assemblies and the Lok sabha, the lower house of parliament. Hence considering all these points that support women reservation is considered Gandhian.
Yes, it should include dalit and OBC quotas within it because most of the time we see the caste system as an unequal mode of organisation of social relations, with the pure and impure at either extreme. Hence Ambedkar provided certain constitutional provisions to protect the rights of Dalits in social, economic, educational, employment and political fields, in the form of positive discrimination. Dalits are the depressed class people and OBC are educationally or socially backward people. Ambedkar demanded electorates for Dalits and reservation seats in educational institution for them. Once Ambedkar said “ Non- Brahmins must get highly educated and occupy the strategically important places, which has remained the monopoly of Brahmins since long”. Reservation should be provided to Dalit and OBC caste people because it helps in removing the inequality among different castes by bringing them at the same level with other upper castes. So seats are reserved in Lok Sabha for SC and ST so that they get a chance of decision making. Prime Minister VP Singh, stated before the Parliament on August 1990 that OBC’s would be given 27 percent reservation in central government jobs and other public sector units. To uplift the lower castes and give them equal opportunities reservation are must. Hence to provide adequate representation of all classes in government service Ambedkar, Jyotibai Phule, Chatrapati Shahu and William Hunter have struggled a lot.
Every caste should be treated equally. Reservation is undertaken to address oppression, inequality and discrimination faced by communities. In India, reservation to the SC, ST and OBC, in case of direct recruitment on an all-India basis by open competition is given at the rate of 15%, 7.7 % and 27% respectively. Six previous attempts to pass the measure had failed, often due to the opposition of smaller regional parties, many of which insisted that the gender quota must include a sub quota for women representing historically disadvantaged castes. Together , these trends cast a shadow over the newly adopted quota reform. Bringing more women into national and state politics could be a significant step for women’s representation, making governance more responsive to women’s interest and needs. Yet ongoing efforts to concentrate power in the executive branch and close space for dissent will inevitably weaken these representational gains. After all civil society is another critical space for women to articulate their demands, hold legislators accountable and claim political power.
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
Honourable Mention
Essay Topic: How might Gandhi have responded to the way elections are conducted today, looking at one or more of the following: (1) election financing; (2) campaign rhetoric; or (3) the election commission.
The Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize
by
Jayesh Mahajan
DPS, Jalandhar
“My religion is based on truth and non-violence. Truth is my God. Non-violence is the means of realizing Him.” Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi(popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi) was called “The Father of The Nation”. This is because his religious beliefs were centred around truth and non-violence, which he believed to be the guiding principles of his life. He saw truth as his superior being, and non-violence as the means to realize this divine power. Gandhi possessed extraordinary insights and an unwavering determination to shape modern India as we see it today. His genuineness, integrity, and commitment to nonviolence were the formidable tools he employed in his struggle, ultimately granting us the precious essence of liberation.
He envisioned a unified and harmonious country for an independent India. Nonetheless, his anticipation did not encompass the significant inflow of financial resources utilized in political campaigns, nor did he predict the prevalence of politicians resorting to bribery in a desperate attempt to gain public support. Gandhi devoted his entire life to pursuing an alternate vision of our nation, yet the present condition in which we live deviates significantly from his cherished ideals and aspirations.
ELECTIONS : (An Overview) -
Conducting an election can be compared to the act of rowing a boat where synchronization and unity among all rowers are essential. Just like in rowing, in order to steer the boat in the right direction, all rowers must exert their efforts simultaneously and in harmony. If any of the rowers fail to synchronize their actions, the boat's movement will be disrupted, causing it to veer off course or become uncontrollable. Elections in contemporary India are efficiently planned and executed, displaying a remarkable level of organization. The electoral process is meticulously coordinated, ensuring comprehensive coverage even in the most remote regions of the country. Strict measures are taken to guarantee that every adult citizen is granted equal opportunities to participate, without any form of coercion or manipulation. However, individuals frequently find themselves ensnared in snares laid by candidates. These snares often revolve around the enticing allure of money, resources, or guaranteed employment opportunities. As a result, it is reasonable to assume that even the esteemed leader and advocate for the independence of India, Mahatma Gandhi, would have desired to engage in dialogue with the public. Through such conversations, he would have aimed to enlighten
citizens about their pivotal role as responsible participants in society and as voters. Additionally, Gandhi would have sought to remind individuals of the solemn oath they take, affirming their unwavering faith in democracy. This pledge explicitly pledges to uphold the democratic principles that serve as the bedrock of our nation, while also highlighting the importance of conducting free, fair, and peaceful elections. Finally, Gandhi would have emphasized the significance of voting fearlessly and independently, without allowing considerations such as religion, race, caste, community, language, or any form of inducement to sway their decisions.
Election financing -
Campaign funding, known as election financing as well, encompasses the complex and intricate procedures undertaken to secure financial resources geared towards bolstering and advancing candidates, political parties, or even specific policies. This intricate process entails the active and dynamic participation of individuals and organizations, both as contributors and beneficiaries of these financial donations. Nevertheless, it is important to highlight that in certain instances, these monetary assets can also serve as acts of goodwill extended to the broader populace. Nevertheless, when these acts of goodwill escalate to encompass lavish vacations, valuable assets, and individuals in positions of power engaging in illicit activities, they transform into acts of corruption commonly referred to as bribery. When companies make donations without disclosing them, it creates an imbalance in the value of each vote, as these donations give them the power to influence policies. This system benefits the ruling parties, both at the national and state levels, more than anyone else, while ordinary voters face adverse effects.
If Gandhi had lived in present-day India, he would undoubtedly have been appalled and disgusted by the motivations of the small, yet impactful number of deceitful politicians who tarnish the entirety of India's political system, giving the impression of widespread corruption. He would have, instead, wanted our political leaders to use this money to generate awareness about the change they will bring if they are elected for good. Cast, creed, colour, and race should not be the determining factor or a targetted point in elections. According to Gandhi, the intertwining of religion and politics was a concept he strongly advocated. However, it is important to note that when he referred to religion, he did not specifically refer to Hinduism or Islam, but rather to the underlying moral principles that are present in all religious beliefs. His belief was that ethical conduct derived from religious teachings should serve as the guiding force behind political decisions.He would have strongly motivated honesty and would have believed that in order to gain favor and influence among others, it is crucial to proactively take charge and create a substantial positive effect on the lives of numerous individuals, rather than relying solely on the materialistic gesture of presenting a large sum of currency in the form of stone gray banknotes.
Election commission-
The responsibility of conducting elections in India is bestowed upon the Election Commission of India (ECI), an institution that was established as per the guidelines stated in the Indian Constitution. The crucial role of the Election Commission encompasses the supervision of various electoral processes, extending its authority over not only parliamentary polls but also state legislature elections. Acting as a unified force, the Election Commission works in close coordination with both the Central Government and regional governments, making it a truly national body.The Election Commission is dedicated to upholding a particular Model Code of Conduct, which serves the purpose of discouraging the adoption of illegal methods by both political parties and individuals, while also promoting and fostering involvement in lawful activities. This code further emphasizes the significance of candidates and political parties abstaining from engaging in any actions that may potentially worsen existing divides, foster animosity, or generate tensions among various social groups such as castes, communities, religions, or languages. As a result, it becomes the responsibility of the Election Commission to ensure that elections are conducted with the utmost integrity and that any instances of corruption are minimized to the greatest possible extent. The efficiency of the Election Commission of India in implementing the law is commendable, although there are occasional instances where financial resources may be sunk or misplaced during the transition from the government to the designated personnel.
“Service without humility is selfishness and egotism ”
Despite these challenges, the Election Commission of India and its well-established infrastructure would undoubtedly bring immense satisfaction to Gandhi. He would highly appreciate and admire the relentless efforts and remarkable achievements of this esteemed national institution. Not only would he express his support, but he would also provide encouragement and inspiration to the members of the Commission, urging them to continue their dedicated and exceptional work, which they have consistently demonstrated.
CONCLUSION -
Hence, the responsibility of upholding a commendable reputation for India's election process does not solely rest on the shoulders of our political leaders. As the majority and empowered citizens of India, it is imperative that we actively participate in democracy and play our part in ensuring a fair and transparent conduct of elections. After all, if there is no one to bribe, then who will be enticed into corruption? Therefore, we must acknowledge our roles in safeguarding the integrity of our beloved country and refrain from succumbing to temptations that may hinder our progress.
The Indian constitution proclaims India as an autonomous, socialist, impartial, and democratic nation, pledging to provide its citizens with fairness, parity, and freedom, and striving to foster unity among them.
However, if it were not for our contributions, India would not possess the distinguished titles previously mentioned. It is crucial to understand that we, as citizens, embody the essence of India itself. In truth, we are the very essence of India, its heartbeat and soul. Therefore, it is imperative for us to take action and stand up for our rights, as we have the power to create the transformative change we strive for in this global society.
As a result, it is crucial for us to actively engage in addressing the various forms of injustice prevalent in society, stepping outside our comfort zones to combat these issues head-on. By doing so, we can ensure that the essential principles of equality and fairness remain prominent and unwavering.
So, “BE THE CHANGE THAT YOU WANT TO SEE IN THE WORLD ” ! ! ! ! ! ! !
Kodaikanal Gandhi Prize 2023
Honourable Mention
Essay Topic: Can the recently enacted reservation for women in parliament be considered Gandhian? Should it include Dalit and OBC quotas within it or should there be women’s quotas in existing Dalit and OBC reservation?
An Insignificant Story
by
Jayosi Gayen
DPS Bopal, Ahmedabad
[“The future depends on what you do today” - Mahatma Gandhi
To most of the world, what happens today, or what happened 75 years ago has no bearings on its continued functioning. But, abstrusely enough, a single spark may set up principles so extensive that they follow years after into decisions which must be questioned before implemented.]
There was nothing notable about the night this story is set in. The sky behind painted a picture of the fading afternoon. Red mixed with orange to paint streaks of heavenly musings. Perhaps it was the play of a higher entity, one who had taken claim to paint even though most people were packing up for the day’s end.
Today however an insignificant little girl at her insignificant desk, trying to appease to her teachers by coming up with what is to be, an insignificant essay on the question- “Can the recently enacted reservation for women in parliament be considered Gandhian? Should include Dalit and OBC reservation?”
Lavanya Prasad, a fifteen-year-old girl had much to think about this question. After all, despite being that for sixty years, by the time she was born, the great father of the nation was almost universally homed as a moral compass. His focus on village governing bodies and government decentralization allowed everybody to be an active participant in government decision his will reflect that of the peoples.
The girl had no plans for what her future could be. Her classmates had already decided, by peer or parental pressure, to study science the following year. Perhaps Lavanya should have followed suit, focusing on medicine to guarantee a stable career. Or, perhaps, she could take example of all the women in her family and just be a homemaker. It wasn’t an enticing option, but it certainly was something encouraged by her family. The only claim to fame she really had was her civics, and that wouldn’t really get her without aptitude. Aptitude required training which required monetary support, and money was a rare commodity.
Some days, she feared about the future, one tainted by an unfortunate background. That day, she was more worried about Gandhian semantics and the research she had to do for her class.
Lavanya absentmindedly scrolled through articles on her phone. It was dinner time, yet she was too focused on her writing to stop. She chewed on her pen without noticing and her leg bounced, as if it were an entity of its own. Gender equality in political representation – a debate so heated, it took years to be acted on.
[It seemed obvious reserving seats was an elementary move to secure female voices in decision-making processes. This combats historical disparities while promoting Gandhi’s vision of equality. Although Gandhi did not explicitly support reservations it does support Gandhi’s vision of Sarvodaya. Welfare for all means that the privileged are routinely checked while the press star aided till one could, one day in a hopeful utopian society, truly claim to be on the same footing. The patriarchal roots of the Indian government meant that despite comprising fifty percent of the populous, women were muted since the implementation of Azadi. Gandhi believed that women could truly be liberated through complete educational and economic reform in the proceedings of women’s lives.]
Of course, Lavanya thought, this may be a way to perpetuate more division and society. Counterproductive, was what the opposing side claimed. The Mahatma fought so hard against the caste system after all. But it is equally true to accuse male dominance in politics of the same thing if we are to play identity politics. Do not see the need for women’s liberation would be a misguided attempt in the sense of wilful ignorance in the best-case scenario and active malice in the best. The reservations are just a temporary measure to best support marginalized communities. Equal opportunities allowed equal voices so policies could in all sense of the phrase be just for all. Why would this not be another step for social justice?
Taking a deep breath, Lavanya pushed her chair away from the desk. 11:47, the clock showed. Four hundred and twenty-five words, the words app said. Maybe a break was in order.
‘Is it fair?’ Of-course it is. Any action against injustice is an attempt at fairness.
However, if people truly wished to bring up inequality, they should be more focused on Gandhi’s work against the caste system. He believed it to be a motion of evil. It must be vanquished before any other bridges are burnt. Gandhi’s ideals went beyond gender and he was, in his life, a beacon of hope for those from lower castes.
Break over
[Representation of women is a positive step, no argument there. But shouldn’t the same grace be extended to those who have, since an egregiously long time, been discriminated against due to birth?
Shouldn’t one follow Gandhi’s example to let these people, of scheduled castes, enter safety in a country that grew to despise them?
An egalitarian society is the goal, but the challenges that one must overcome to truly set a prejudice free society is one that has continued for decades after Gandhi’s death, and may well do so for another century.]
Great minds have ruminated on the topic for ages before she was born. Really, who was Lavanya but a nameless girl? One who, as a woman from a lower economic status, had much less of a chance to foster change than the Mahatma did? She couldn’t dream to gain even a fraction of his law expertise or abroad experience. That required money, which was a commodity one got only when they were heard. And to reiterate the message that had been going through her mind for years now, how can she be of any significance?
[Someone, however, may have a justified question against the qualifications of those elected through reservations. Centuries of building systems against the education of women and Dalits, to ostracize them further, make it difficult to build a reputable rapport. However, that is the exact reason why we must allow for more parliamentary diversity. It gives political experience to those who, for too long a time, had only experienced bitter prejudice and an oppressive sense of humiliation. This argument only pokes at the deeply thrust root merit of the country’s ancient system of inequalities.
But what about an intersection? Dalits and woman have had wildly different experiences from a political standpoint. A synergy of both must be a banking on the social and financial status of a person.]
Lavanya imagined, for a moment, what it must be to be a Dalit woman. Societal injustice in public is unbearable enough on its own, but the feeling of being an outcast in your own family, due to an unlucky roll of a die made years before your conception must be…
Just the conclusion left
[Justice and equality go together in a parliament focused on representing equal voices. However, a holistic view must be applicable to include all marginalized community, including Dalits and OBC.
Gandhi’s ideals may not have had predicted the solution for every sociopolitical issue, but one must believe in his core values of non-violent resolutions. People will continue to stand for their rights if they feel their community being mistreated and outcasted. Gandhi’s holistic principles may, if used as a reference, stand for such.
A broader strategy must focus not just on parliamentary representation, but on the empowerment of our self-governing bodies. Recognition of the inter-connected nature of gender and caste-based discrimination will force us to build a society where everybody, regardless of gender or caste, is able to hold functional power in the Indian community. Those in power must recalibrate priorities to focus not just on the ethics of reserved seats for minorities, but in the implementation of Gandhian fundamental philosophies in terms of equality and justice.]
1:28 the clock said. Maybe she could sleep for a bit before school.
She put down her notebook. The essay would only be read by her teachers. She would probably receive a B+. The essay, in the grand scheme of things, was just as insignificant as her.
But the ideas she learnt about had forced opinions out of her. An old man with glasses may not be the best judge for the diverse personalities that comprised India. Perfection was an inherently absurd concept but when spoken in terms of a figurehead, the concept became clearer.
Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi may have been dead for more than half a century, but his ideals remain functionally immortal. The reason for that is not Gandhi’s naturally altruistic nature, but the public’s intrinsic need for idealistic principles. As the public changes, so does their view on current issues. They will try to adapt the past to better suit their actions in the present.
That is why this story may not insignificant. That is why little girls like Lavanya are not insignificant. That is why the history of our country is not insignificant. After all, how can one try and bring forth the reforms and new practices when there is no base to stand on?
Today’s youth will one day grow to be tomorrow’s motion-bearers. Sabarmati Ashram displays various writings which, in the matter of their content, bear a simplistic correspondence. They few of the most significant writings of the twentieth century, hung neatly behind glass.
Essay Topic: Would a Gandhian today support a uniform civil code? If yes, what wouldhe/she say should be its core approach or elements? If no, why not?